A bout the song
“Lights” is a cherished song by the American rock band Journey, written by the band’s lead vocalist Steve Perry and guitarist Neal Schon. Released in 1978, the track holds a special place in the band’s history and in the hearts of its fans. Originally intended to be about Los Angeles, the song evolved to celebrate San Francisco, Journey’s city of origin, after Perry joined the band.
Steve Perry has recounted the song’s transformation in interviews. He explained, “I had the song written in Los Angeles almost completely except for the bridge, and it was written about Los Angeles. It was ‘when the lights go down in the city and the sun shines on LA.’ I didn’t like the way it sounded at the time. And so I just had it sitting back in the corner. Then life changed my plans once again, and I was now facing joining Journey. I love San Francisco, the bay, and the whole thing. ‘The bay’ fit so nice, ‘When the lights go down in the city and the sun shines on the bay.’ It was one of those early-morning-going-across-the-bridge things, when the sun was coming up and the lights were going down. It was perfect.”
Upon its release as a single in 1978, “Lights” initially made a modest impact, peaking at number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite its slow start, the song has grown in popularity over the years and has become one of Journey’s most beloved and instantly recognizable hits. Its enduring appeal has secured it a regular spot on Classic Hits and Oldies radio stations.
“Lights” has also become an anthem for San Francisco sports teams. It is frequently played at San Francisco Giants baseball games, including notable performances led by Perry himself during pivotal games of the World Series in 2010, 2012, and 2014. The song is also a staple at Levi’s Stadium, celebrating the San Francisco 49ers’ home victories, and is sometimes featured in promotions for the Golden State Warriors. Additionally, “Lights” was famously played just before the start of Game 4 of the 1989 World Series on ABC.
In 1993, Journey released a live version of “Lights” as part of the *Time³* box set. This recording reached number 30 on the Adult Contemporary chart, further cementing the song’s legacy. The track also holds historical significance in San Francisco radio history, being the last song played during the Top 40 era of the legendary KFRC 610 station before its transition to a nostalgia/adult standards format in 1986.
“Lights” captures the essence of San Francisco with its evocative lyrics and soulful melody, celebrating the beauty of the city and the bay area. Its journey from a modest hit to a beloved classic reflects its deep connection to the city and its lasting impact on fans across generations. The song’s evocative imagery and heartfelt performance continue to resonate, making it a timeless piece in Journey’s extensive catalog.
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Lyrics
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
Ooh I want to be there in my city
Oh-ooh-oh
Oh-ooh-oh, oh-ooh-oh
So you think you’re lonely
Well my friend, I’m lonely too
I wanna get back to my city by the bay
Whoa-oh, oh-ooh-oh
It’s sad, oh there’s been mornings
Out on the road without you
Without your charms
Oh-ooh-oh-oh my, my, my, my, my, my
Whoa-oh, oh-ooh-oh
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
Ooh I wanna be there in my city
Oh-ooh-oh-oh
Whoa, ooh-oh, oh-oh-oh
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
Ooh I wanna be there in my city
Oh-ooh-oh
Whoa, ooh-oh, oh-oh-oh
Whoa, ooh-oh, oh-oh-oh