The Story Behind "Don't Stop Believin'"

"Don't Stop Believin'" is undeniably one of Journey's biggest hits. The song was released in 1981 and has since become an anthem for all ages, with its catchy melody and inspiring lyrics. The track was written by Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon, all of whom were members of Journey at the time. According to Perry, the idea for the song came to him after a late-night conversation with Cain, where they talked about how they both came from small towns and had to work hard to achieve their dreams. Thus, "Don't Stop Believin'" was born.

The Reception of "Don't Stop Believin'"

Upon its release, "Don't Stop Believin'" was a moderate hit, peaking at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, its popularity continued to grow with time. The song has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, including in the final episode of the hit series "The Sopranos". In 2009, "Don't Stop Believin'" gained renewed popularity after being featured in the TV show "Glee", where it was performed by the cast during the first season. The song was a huge success and propelled Journey back into the spotlight.

The Legacy of "Don't Stop Believin'"

Aside from its success on the charts and in popular culture, "Don't Stop Believin'" has become a symbol of hope and perseverance for many people. One of the most iconic lines of the song is "Don't stop believin', hold on to that feelin'", which encourages listeners to never give up on their dreams, even in the face of adversity.

Over the years, "Don't Stop Believin'" has been covered by countless artists, from pop stars like Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus to rock legends like Guns N' Roses and Green Day. The song's impact has also extended beyond the world of music, with sports teams and athletes adopting it as their anthem. In 2017, the New York Yankees even played "Don't Stop Believin'" after winning a key game in the playoffs.

Fun Facts About "Don't Stop Believin'"

• "Don't Stop Believin'" was the last song played at Steve Jobs' memorial service in 2011, as it was one of his favorite songs.
• In 2007, "Don't Stop Believin'" was declared the most downloaded song from the 20th century.
• The song's chorus was originally written by Steve Perry and Neal Schon for a different song, but then they decided to use it for "Don't Stop Believin'".
• The music video for "Don't Stop Believin'" features footage of the band performing live, as well as shots of people living their everyday lives.

Final Thoughts

"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey has truly stood the test of time. Its infectious melody and uplifting message have made it a classic that generations of music fans continue to enjoy. Whether you're feeling down and in need of some encouragement or simply want to listen to a great song, "Don't Stop Believin'" is definitely worth a listen. So turn up the volume and sing along to one of the greatest anthems of all time!