Neal Schon recently addressed the possibility of a Bad English reunion, responding to a fan’s request on X (formerly Twitter).
A fan had reached out to the guitarist with hopes of seeing the band reunite, noting that the members still have their musical abilities intact.
“Let’s do a Bad English reunion. You guys all still have it,” the fan wrote to Schon.
Schon’s response was brief but definitive, pointing to internal conflicts within the band.
“[John] Waite and [Jonathan] Cain do not get along,” Schon responded.
The guitarist’s candid admission sheds light on the long-standing tensions that have prevented the supergroup from reforming since their breakup in the early 1990s.
BraveWords reported that John Waite has spoken openly about not getting along with Jonathan Cain even during their time together in Journey. These tensions contributed significantly to Bad English’s breakup. The conflict between the two musicians appears to have deep roots that extend beyond their time in the supergroup.
Waite has been candid about the circumstances surrounding the band’s dissolution. Ultimate Classic Rock noted that Waite described the breakup as partly due to internal conflicts and frustration, eventually saying he “just said ‘f–k it.'” His desire to pursue a solo career was also a major factor that complicated the group’s cohesion.
Jonathan Cain has suggested that the band’s breakup was more related to communication problems within management and the record company structure, as detailed by Michael Cavacini. However, Waite’s disagreements and his gradual withdrawal from the band were key reasons for the split. The combination of personal tensions and business difficulties created an environment that made continuing as a band untenable.
The unresolved conflicts between Waite and Cain have effectively closed the door on any potential Bad English reunion, despite the band’s past commercial success and the enduring talent of its members. Schon’s straightforward response to the fan makes it clear that these personal differences remain a significant barrier to bringing the group back together.
