11 Underrated Journey Songs: A Must-Listen

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to pal for all things melodious. Today, I’m diving into something really close to my heart – Journey’s underrated tracks.

We all know their hits that get the crowd going, but there’s so much more to their music. This iconic band has a treasure trove of tunes that often don’t get the spotlight they deserve.

So, I decided to put together a list of 11 underrated Journey songs that truly showcase their range and talent.

These tracks are gems that have resonated with me, both behind the decks and in my personal playlists.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just getting into Journey, these songs are sure to add depth to your music collection. Let’s embark on this musical journey together and discover the lesser-known yet equally captivating side of one of rock’s legendary bands!

Here are the underrated Journey songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Journey Songs

Underrated Journey songs in a list format:

1. “Feeling That Way”

From the 1978 album “Infinity,” released under Columbia Records, “Feeling That Way” is a stellar example of Journey’s early sound. Authored by Gregg Rolie, Steve Perry, and Aynsley Dunbar, this song features a unique blend of Rolie’s keyboard and Perry’s fresh vocals, marking the beginning of a new era for the band. The harmonious interplay between Rolie and Perry sets a dreamy, uplifting tone. It’s a song that captures the essence of late 70s rock with a hint of progressive elements. I chose this because it showcases the band’s transition and musical evolution, a must-listen for those who appreciate the roots of classic rock.

2. “Just the Same Way”

From the 1979 album “Evolution,” under Columbia Records, “Just the Same Way” showcases the band’s ability to blend melodic rock with a pop sensibility. Authored by Gregg Rolie, Steve Perry, and Ross Valory, this track stands out for its catchy chorus and the harmonious blend of Rolie’s and Perry’s vocals. The song reflects Journey’s evolving sound and highlights the band’s chemistry. It’s a testament to their versatility and songwriting skills, often overshadowed by their more famous hits. I included it for its upbeat, feel-good vibe that epitomizes the late 70s rock scene.

3. “Escape”

The title track from their 1981 album “Escape,” released by Columbia Records, is an epic showcase of Steve Perry’s powerful vocals and Neal Schon’s masterful guitar work. Written by Perry, Schon, and Jonathan Cain, this song embodies the spirit of 80s rock with its dynamic energy and anthemic chorus. Despite being overshadowed by other hits from the same album, “Escape” is a powerful number that captures the band’s skill in creating captivating rock anthems. Its inclusion here is due to its representation of Journey at their peak, offering a raw, energetic sound that’s irresistibly engaging.

4. “Line of Fire”

Featured on the 1980 album “Departure,” under Columbia Records, “Line of Fire” is a high-energy track that showcases the band’s rock prowess. Authored by Neal Schon and Steve Perry, this song is a hidden gem with its fiery guitar riffs and compelling vocals. It embodies the band’s signature sound while presenting a more hard-rock edge. This song is often overlooked but is a prime example of Journey’s ability to blend melodic hooks with powerful rock instrumentation. I chose it for its intense energy and the way it represents the band’s more rock-oriented side.

5. “Mother, Father”

From the 1981 album “Escape,” “Mother, Father” is a profound and emotionally charged ballad. Written by Neal Schon, Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain, and Matthew Schon, it showcases Journey’s softer, more introspective side. The song features stunning guitar work by Schon and Perry’s heartfelt vocals, creating a deeply moving musical experience. Its lyrical depth and musical complexity make it stand out in Journey’s catalog. I selected this track for its emotional resonance and the way it demonstrates the band’s versatility in songwriting and musical expression.

6. “Troubled Child”

“Troubled Child,” from the 1983 album “Frontiers,” released by Columbia Records, is an underrated masterpiece. Authored by Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon, this song features intricate synthesizer work and Perry’s emotive singing. It’s a track that delves into more complex themes and showcases the band’s ability to craft songs with depth and sophistication. The haunting melody and thoughtful lyrics set it apart from their mainstream hits. I included it to highlight Journey’s skill in creating music that’s not just catchy but also thought-provoking and rich in texture.

7. “Edge of the Blade”

This track from the 1983 “Frontiers” album, under Columbia Records, is a testament to Journey’s rock sensibilities. Written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, “Edge of the Blade” features dynamic guitar riffs and powerful vocals. It’s a high-energy song that captures the band’s ability to fuse melodic rock with a harder edge. The song’s driving rhythm and compelling chorus make it a standout track. I chose it for its robust energy and its representation of the band’s ability to rock out while maintaining their signature melodic style.

8. “Chain Reaction”

From the 1983 album “Frontiers,” “Chain Reaction,” authored by Neal Schon and Steve Perry, is a high-octane track that exemplifies Journey’s ability to create rock anthems. With its catchy chorus and energetic guitar work, it’s a song that deserves more recognition. It represents the band’s classic 80s rock sound and is a hidden gem for those who appreciate the era’s music. I included it because it’s a prime example of how Journey could craft songs that were both radio-friendly and deeply engaging.

9. “Why Can’t This Night Go On Forever”

Featured on the 1986 album “Raised on Radio,” released under Columbia Records, this track is a beautiful ballad that showcases Steve Perry’s stunning vocal range. Written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry, it’s a song that captures the essence of 80s power ballads with its emotional depth and soaring melody. The song’s romantic and wistful lyrics are complemented by the band’s sensitive instrumentation. I selected this song for its emotional impact and the way it highlights Journey’s ability to create poignant, memorable ballads.

10. “Happy to Give”

From their 1986 album “Raised on Radio,” “Happy to Give” is a heartfelt ballad that often goes unnoticed. Authored by Steve Perry, this song stands out for its emotional sincerity and Perry’s soulful vocal delivery. The track showcases Journey’s softer side, with its gentle melody and introspective lyrics. It’s a beautiful representation of the band’s range and ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. I chose it for its emotional depth and the way it illustrates the band’s versatility beyond their rock anthems.

11. “Once You Love Somebody”

Another gem from the “Raised on Radio” album, “Once You Love Somebody” is a dynamic track that combines rock elements with a catchy melody. Authored by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, the song features compelling vocals and robust instrumentation. It’s an example of Journey’s knack for blending rock energy with melodic accessibility. This track is often overshadowed but is a great representation of the band’s sound in the mid-80s. I included it to showcase their continued excellence in creating engaging and memorable songs, even beyond their most famous hits.

Fun Facts: Underrated Journey Songs

1. “Feeling That Way”

• Collaborative Beginning: This song marked one of the first collaborations between Steve Perry and Gregg Rolie, setting the tone for future Journey classics.
• Dual Lead Vocals: Unique for its time, “Feeling That Way” features dual lead vocals by Perry and Rolie, a rare occurrence in rock music and a standout feature of the track.

2. “Just the Same Way”

• Last Feature for Rolie: “Just the Same Way” was one of the last Journey tracks to feature Gregg Rolie as a lead vocalist before he left the band.
• Music Video Rarity: Despite its popularity, this song never had an official music video, which was uncommon for hits during the late 70s and 80s.

3. “Escape”

• The Album’s Namesake: As the title track of the “Escape” album, this song helped define the album’s overall theme and tone, yet it often gets overshadowed by the album’s more famous hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
• Hidden Message: The song’s lyrics subtly reflect the band’s journey and their desire to break free from musical stereotypes and constraints.

4. “Line of Fire”

• Live Favorite: “Line of Fire” became a fan favorite in live performances, known for its high energy and engaging guitar riffs, which added an electrifying atmosphere to Journey’s concerts.
• Dynamic Music Video: The song’s music video was one of the few to capture Journey’s live performance energy, showcasing their on-stage chemistry.

5. “Mother, Father”

• Personal Touch: “Mother, Father” is one of the more personal songs for the band, with deep, introspective lyrics that resonate with many fans on an emotional level.
• Family Collaboration: The inclusion of Neal Schon’s father, Matthew Schon, as a co-writer makes this song a unique family collaboration within the band’s discography.

6. “Troubled Child”

• Sophisticated Synthesis: This track stands out for its sophisticated use of synthesizers, a testament to the band’s ability to incorporate different musical elements and technologies.
• Lyrical Depth: The lyrics of “Troubled Child” delve into more complex and darker themes than typical Journey songs, showcasing their range in songwriting.

7. “Edge of the Blade”

• Energetic Opener: Often used as an opening song in concerts, “Edge of the Blade” set an energetic and dynamic tone for Journey’s live performances.
• Underrated Guitar Work: Neal Schon’s guitar work in this song is often cited by fans as some of his best, yet it remains underrated in the broader rock guitar community.

8. “Chain Reaction”

• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a commercial hit, “Chain Reaction” became a fan favorite, especially among those who appreciated the rock edge of the band.
• Music Video: One of the few Journey songs from this era to have a music video, it highlighted the band’s energetic stage presence and performance style.

9. “Why Can’t This Night Go On Forever”

• Ballad Excellence: This song is often praised for its excellence in the power ballad genre, a staple of the 1980s music scene.
• Reflective Lyrics: The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, resonating deeply with audiences, especially those experiencing the highs and lows of romantic relationships.

10. “Happy to Give”

• Perry’s Vocal Range: Showcasing Steve Perry’s impressive vocal range, this song is a testament to his status as one of the great rock vocalists of his time.
• Emotional Resonance: Known for its emotional depth, “Happy to Give” often strikes a chord with fans for its heartfelt and sincere delivery.

11. “Once You Love Somebody”

• Energetic Composition: This song is noted for its energetic composition, blending rock and pop elements seamlessly.
• Underrated Hit: Though not as commercially successful as other tracks from “Raised on Radio,” it remains a favorite among Journey connoisseurs for its catchy melody and robust performance.

And that’s a wrap on our journey through Journey’s lesser-known tracks. These songs are a testament to the band’s incredible range and musical mastery, each offering a unique listening experience. Dive into these hidden gems and let the music of one of rock’s legendary bands enrich your playlist!

Thanks for reading.

TBone