Introduction to Steve Perry’s departure from Journey

In 1987, Steve Perry, the legendary lead vocalist of Journey, shocked the music world when he announced his departure from the band. Perry had been the face of Journey for over a decade and was instrumental in transforming the group from a struggling rock band into one of the biggest acts of the 1980s. Perry’s departure came as a major blow to Journey fans who had come to love his soaring voice, and it left many wondering why he had chosen to leave the band.

The rise of Journey under Steve Perry’s leadership

Steve Perry joined Journey in 1977, replacing the band’s original lead vocalist, Gregg Rolie. With Perry at the helm, Journey experienced a meteoric rise in popularity, releasing a string of hit albums and singles throughout the 1980s. Perry’s powerful vocals and emotive performances helped to make songs like "Don’t Stop Believin’," "Open Arms," and "Separate Ways" some of the most iconic anthems of the decade. Under Perry’s leadership, Journey became one of the most successful bands of the era, selling over 75 million records worldwide.