Journey’s current singer, Arnel Pineda, joined the band in 2007, replacing Jeff Scott Soto on lead vocals. Pineda, however, has faced criticism lately over his ability to hit some of the higher notes in a few of Journey’s most recognizable tracks – including “Don’t Stop Believing.”
A recent incident at this year’s Rock in Rio festival during which Pineda had issues with his ear monitor further led to vocal issues and to Pineda entertaining the possibility of quitting the band.
“No one more than me in this world feels so devastated about this,” he wrote in a statement shortly after the show in September 2024. “…Of all the places, it’s in Rock In Rio… mentally and emotionally, I’ve suffered already, and I’m still suffering… but I’ll be OK….” Pineda then added that he would leave the band if fans wanted him to, asking them to write “stay” or “go” in the comment section. “If GO reaches 1 million… I’m stepping out for good… are you game folks?” he wrote.
Now, speculation of Pineda’s possible exit has reignited after Journey tribute band Voyage announced that they have officially parted ways with longtime vocalist Hugo Valenti after 20 years.
“Our journey together has been memorable, and we wish him nothing but success in all his future endeavors,” Voyage wrote.
Following this announcement, fans began to theorize that Valenti left Voyage in order to join the real Journey and replace Pineda.
“Wouldn’t it be wild if Hugo left to join the real Journey band?” one fan commented, with another asking: “So, is Hugo going to Journey? That would be amazing!”
“Hugo doesn’t struggle to hit any notes,” a third fan noted. “He tried out for Journey after Steve Perry left. Neal [Schon] said he looked and sounded too much like Steve Perry. I think Neal likes all the attention on him.”
As of now, there is no clear indication as to whether Pineda is truly considering leaving Journey.
