When you think of Journey, you might immediately picture legendary frontman Steve Perry belting out ‘Don’t Stop Believin” to a sea of adoring fans. However, the band has gone through a few different lead singers since Perry’s departure in 1998. In a recent appearance on the Thunder Underground podcast, Journey drummer Deen Castronovo shared some surprising revelations about the band’s search for the perfect vocalist before ultimately hiring Arnel Pineda.
Journey’s lineup has undergone several transformations, particularly in the lead vocalist department. After Perry left the band, Steve Augeri stepped in and held the position from 1998 to 2006. Following Augeri’s exit, Jeff Scott Soto briefly took over the role in 2006 but was dismissed the following year. It was during this time that the band was on the hunt for their next singer.
Castronovo reminisced about the period between Augeri and Pineda when he was asked if he had ever considered taking over the lead vocal duties. According to Deen, there was some discussion about him stepping up to the mic, but he ultimately dismissed the idea. Even though he was already a skilled drummer, he didn’t feel he possessed the special ‘charisma’ or ‘thing’ needed to front a band like Journey.
He went on to explain that Jeff Scott Soto, another talented vocalist, was already performing with the band at the time. However, after Soto’s departure, the idea of Castronovo taking over as lead singer was brought up again. Despite the consideration, everyone in the band ultimately agreed that Deen wasn’t the right fit to lead the group.
When asked if he was an option to take over the lead vocals between Augeri and Pineda, Castronovo replied:
“There was talk about it, but I was like, ‘No, no.’ They were like, ‘We should get Deen up there.’ ‘Well, no’ [laughing]. And that was early on. Jeff [Soto] was in the band. Another incredible vocalist. He was doing his duties. When they let Jeff go, they were like, ‘Maybe we should get Deen.’
I think we all agreed I was not that special person to front a band. You gotta have that thing. Whatever that is, the charisma or [something else]. Whatever they wanna call it. With the drums, I can go all crazy. That’s why I’m doing it with Revolution Saints. I’m gonna try my thing, and if I fail, I hope Jeff and Joel are there.”
As we now know, Journey eventually discovered Arnel Pineda on YouTube and offered him the coveted lead vocalist position in 2007. Since then, Pineda has successfully carried the torch, pleasing long-time fans and winning over new ones. So, Journey’s journey to find the right vocalist was a winding road filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Deen Castronovo’s recollections give us a unique glimpse into the band’s decision-making process and their dedication to finding the perfect frontman. While Castronovo didn’t end up taking the lead vocalist role, he has continued to pursue his passion for drumming and singing with the band Revolution Saints. Meanwhile, Journey continues to captivate audiences with Arnel Pineda’s powerful voice and stage presence.
