Did You Know?
Don’t Stop Believin'” is a timeless rock anthem by the American rock band Journey. Released in 1981 as a part of their album “Escape,” the song has become one of the most recognizable and enduring classics in the history of rock music. Here’s a detailed look at the song:
1. Composition and Lyrics:
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” is an uplifting rock song with a memorable and energetic melody.
- The song was written by members Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon. Its lyrics convey a message of hope, persistence, and optimism, inspiring listeners to never give up on their dreams.
2. Vocal Performance:
- Steve Perry, the band’s lead vocalist at the time, delivers a powerful and emotionally charged performance. His distinctive voice adds depth and passion to the song.
- The song’s chorus, with the repeated refrain of “Don’t stop believin’,” is particularly iconic and easy to sing along to.
3. Instrumentation:
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” features a driving piano riff, which is played by Jonathan Cain and serves as a defining element of the song’s sound.
- The song also showcases Neal Schon’s guitar work, with a memorable guitar solo towards the end.
4. Release and Reception:
- When “Don’t Stop Believin'” was released as a single, it quickly gained popularity and became one of Journey’s biggest hits.
- Although it only reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the song has continued to be a radio favorite and is frequently used in films, television shows, and commercials.
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” is often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
5. Legacy:
- The song’s enduring popularity has made it a staple at sporting events, graduation ceremonies, and celebrations of all kinds.
- The closing scene of the popular TV series “The Sopranos” famously featured “Don’t Stop Believin’,” adding to its cultural significance.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” remains a symbol of hope and perseverance, and its catchy melody and inspiring lyrics have endeared it to generations of music lovers. The song’s ability to connect with audiences and its timeless quality have solidified its place in the pantheon of rock music classics.
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Lyrics
“Don’t Stop Believin'”
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 smokey room
The 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
Livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night
Workin’ 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 were 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
Livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlight people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on
Streetlight people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlight people