Jeff Scott Soto recently commented on a hypothetical collaboration with Journey’s Neal Schon. He addressed the possibility in a statement shared on Harmless Dave.
When asked whether he would accept an invitation from Schon to jam together, Soto expressed his deep respect for the musician and his influence on his career.
“In a heartbeat,” Soto responded. “I have the most ultimate respect for Neil as a musician, as a writer, as a producer. The things that he’s done have literally put a stamp in music. They put a stamp in my life musically and influence-wise.”
Soto emphasized that his focus remains on the musical connection rather than personal differences. He highlighted what matters most to him in any potential collaboration.
“I look at Neil. I look at what I did with I look at the talent and the talent pool that they come from. That to me is more exciting than the personality side or the differences in personality,” he said. “I care more about what we have together in terms of the conversation and on a musical side. Jamming and having fun is what music is about—joy, smiling, and just having fun. I would do it in a heartbeat because I know I would get all of that from Neil.”
Soto also reflected on his past relationship with Journey and Schon. He noted that they have reached a place of mutual respect and peace.
“The whole Journey situation had its kind of a course road of interaction. Finally, Neil and I are at peace with each other. I can reach out to him now. He reaches out to me. We’re not having coffee. We’re not having dinner. We’re not starting up the band again, but we’re civil now. This is exactly what I want in our life. I don’t want anything from Neil. I want peace, love, and harmony.”
Soto’s comments reflect a complex history with both Schon and Journey. The two musicians have collaborated before, though not as part of Journey’s main lineup. Ultimate Classic Rock notes that Jeff Scott Soto worked with Neal Schon on Soul SirkUS’s 2005 album “World Play.” This demonstrates their ability to create music together outside of the Journey framework.
Soto’s tenure with Journey itself was relatively brief. Vernon Matters reports that Soto officially replaced Steve Augeri as Journey’s lead singer in December 2006. He served in that role until 2007, marking his only time as the official vocalist for the legendary rock band. Arnel Pineda has filled this role since 2008.
Currently, Journey continues its touring activities without Soto. 103GBF Rocks indicates that the band is on their Final Frontier farewell tour. The tour features Neal Schon and the current lineup with Arnel Pineda as lead vocalist. This tour represents a significant chapter in the band’s history, though it does not include Soto.
Soto’s willingness to collaborate with Schon on a casual basis, as expressed in his recent comments, suggests that despite the complexities of his past with Journey, he maintains genuine respect for Schon’s musical contributions and legacy. His emphasis on peace and harmony over past grievances indicates a mature perspective on their professional relationship. He prioritizes the joy of making music together over unresolved tensions.
