About the song
“Lights” is a song recorded by the American rock band Journey, written by Steve Perry and Neal Schon, and released in 1978. This classic track is a tribute to Journey’s hometown of San Francisco, even though it was initially written about Los Angeles. Steve Perry, who had recently joined the band, co-wrote the song, marking one of his first significant contributions to Journey’s music.
In an interview, Perry shared the song’s origins, explaining that he had almost finished writing it in Los Angeles. The original lyrics were “when the lights go down in the city and the sun shines on LA,” but Perry was unsatisfied with how it sounded. After joining Journey and falling in love with San Francisco and its iconic bay, Perry revised the lyrics to reflect this new inspiration. He described a moment crossing the bridge at dawn when the city’s lights were fading, and the sun was rising over the bay, creating a perfect scene captured in the lyrics “when the lights go down in the city and the sun shines on the bay.”
Released as a single in 1978, “Lights” initially achieved modest success, peaking at number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite its early performance, the song grew in popularity over the years, becoming one of Journey’s most beloved and recognizable tracks. Today, “Lights” is a staple on Classic Hits and Oldies radio stations.
“Lights” holds a special place in the hearts of San Francisco sports fans. It is frequently played at San Francisco Giants baseball games, with Steve Perry himself leading renditions during the World Series games in 2010, 2012, and 2014. The song also features during the Oakland Athletics’ post-game fireworks and is played at Levi’s Stadium whenever the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers win a home game. Additionally, “Lights” has been used in promotions for the Golden State Warriors and was played just before the start of Game 4 of the 1989 World Series on ABC.
A live version of “Lights” was released in 1993 as part of Journey’s “Time³” box set, reaching number 30 on the Adult Contemporary chart. This rendition showcases the enduring appeal of the song, which has transcended its initial chart performance to become a timeless anthem.
The song also made its mark on radio history. It was the last track played on the legendary San Francisco station KFRC 610 before the station transitioned to a nostalgia/adult standards format in 1986. “Lights” was even used during the sign-offs of KIII in Corpus Christi, Texas, in the late 1980s.
Critics have praised “Lights” for its musical qualities. Cash Box highlighted the “searching guitar work” and “excellent lead and backing vocals,” while Record World noted its “easy ’50s rock beat” and compelling “sweet high harmony hook.”
“Lights” remains a testament to Journey’s musical legacy, capturing the essence of a city and the spirit of a band that continues to resonate with fans old and new.
Video
Lyrics
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
I want to be there in my city
Ooh, ooh
So you think you’re lonely
Well my friend I’m lonely too
I want to get back to my city by the bay
Ooh, ooh
It’s sad, oh there’s been mornings
Out on the road without you
Without your charms
Ooh, my, my, my, my, my, my
Ooh
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
Ooh, I want to be there in my city
Ooh, ooh
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
Oh, I want to be there in my city
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh