About the song
“Don’t Stop Believin’,” a song by the iconic American rock band Journey, has become one of the most enduring anthems of rock music. Released in 1981, this track was the second single from their seventh studio album, “Escape.” Journey, formed in San Francisco in 1973, had already achieved significant success by the time “Escape” was released, but “Don’t Stop Believin'” propelled them to a new level of fame and cultural impact.
The lineup for “Don’t Stop Believin'” included Steve Perry on vocals, Neal Schon on guitar, Jonathan Cain on keyboards, Ross Valory on bass, and Steve Smith on drums. This lineup is often considered the classic Journey lineup, bringing together a unique blend of talent and musical styles that defined the band’s sound during the 1980s.
“Escape,” the album featuring “Don’t Stop Believin’,” was a commercial triumph, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart. The album produced several hit singles, but none achieved the iconic status of “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The song itself reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking it as one of the band’s highest-charting singles at the time.
Musically, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is notable for its distinctive piano intro, played by Jonathan Cain, which sets the stage for the song’s uplifting and anthemic quality. The song’s structure is somewhat unconventional, starting with the chorus and gradually building up to a powerful climax. Steve Perry’s soaring vocals deliver a message of hope and perseverance, encapsulated in the memorable lines, “Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feelin’.”
The song’s lyrics tell a story of a “small-town girl” and a “city boy” on a journey, capturing the essence of the American dream and the universal quest for a better life. This narrative, combined with the song’s driving melody and powerful chorus, has resonated with audiences across generations.
Over the years, “Don’t Stop Believin'” has transcended its original release to become a cultural phenomenon. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and sporting events, often used to evoke a sense of triumph and nostalgia. One of the most notable resurgences of the song’s popularity came from its inclusion in the final episode of the television series “The Sopranos” in 2007, which introduced the song to a new generation of fans.
In addition to its presence in pop culture, “Don’t Stop Believin'” has also been embraced by sports teams and fans as an anthem of hope and resilience. The song’s universal appeal and inspirational message make it a favorite at stadiums and arenas around the world.
In conclusion, “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey is more than just a hit song; it is a timeless anthem that continues to inspire and uplift listeners. Its success on the charts, its lasting cultural impact, and its message of hope have solidified its place as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Journey’s ability to craft such a powerful and enduring piece of music is a testament to their talent and their significant influence on the rock genre.
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Lyrics
Just a small town girl
Livin’ in a lonely world
She took the midnight train goin’ anywhere
Just a city boy
Born and raised in south Detroit
He took the midnight train goin’ anywhere
A singer in a smoky room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on, and on, and on
Strangers waiting
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlights, people
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Working hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin’ anything to roll the dice
Just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some are born to sing the blues
Oh, the movie never ends
It goes on and on, and on, and on
Strangers waiting
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlights, people
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to the feelin’
Streetlights, people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on
Streetlights, people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to the feelin’
Streetlights, people