Journey debuted its new live lineup during an appearance on the May 23 UNICEF Won’t Stop global relief concert special.
Following a brief 80s stint with the group, bassist Randy Jackson has rejoined the band, while drummer Narada Michael Walden steps in on drums alongside new addition, keyboardist/vocalist Jason Derlatka.
The lineup delivered “Don’t Stop Believin’” on the special, which also featured performances from Cher, Sheryl Crow, Peter Frampton, Rod Stewart, Sting and more.
"We were asked by UNICEF if we could come together to do this on Wednesday morning,” says Journey founder Neal Schon and longtime member Jonathan Cain. “We admire their work and we dropped everything to do this in self isolation. Their "UNICEF Won't Stop" campaign is great and we can only say don't stop believin'. Right now, more than ever, we can each make a difference if we don't stop believin'."
For more information on the event, visit unicefwontstop.org.
Following their performance, Schon shared the news on social media, writing: “Ok friends word is out! @yo_randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again,” and, “Word is out! @naradamwalden Narada Michael Walden is our new Drummer! Multi talented songwriter producer / Mahavishnu orchestra. The J Boyz will have a new Strut.”
Jackson and Walden have joined Journey’s touring lineup following the firing of longtime bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith over the pair’s alleged efforts to take control over the band’s name; Valory has since countersued former bandmates Schon and Cain over the issue.
The 2020 version of Journey were gearing up for an extensive North American tour, which was recently cancelled due the ongoing pandemic.
“Journey is an ever-changing unstoppable force,” explained Schon on Twitter. “This is a completely new chapter for us and can’t wait to get to it!”
See also:
Journey cancel North American tour
Steve Perry sings Beach Boys classic in home isolation video
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