Steve Perry has recently publicly dismissed renewed speculation that he could rejoin Journey during the band’s upcoming “Final Frontier” tour, after comments from keyboardist Jonathan Cain reignited fan hopes of a guest appearance.
Cain recently suggested guitarist Neal Schon had been in touch with Perry about possibly showing up at one of the tour’s dates, in an interview published by Ultimate Classic Rock, Perry responded on social media to state that the rumours are “simply not true” and that he wanted to “gently put them to rest.”
In his statement, Perry said he understands why people would want it to happen and acknowledged the meaning Journey’s music still holds for him. He added that he is continuing to explore new creative work and is enjoying making new music that reflects where he is today, while thanking fans for their loyalty and support over the years.
Perry shared a message on his social media stating: “To all my friends – I’ve been hearing these recent rumors, and I wanted to speak to you all directly. While I’m always grateful for the love people still have for Journey, the rumors about me rejoining the band are simply not true, and I want to gently put them to rest.
“I completely understand why people would hope for that. The music we created together means a great deal to me too. But I’m continuing to explore new creative work and really enjoy working on new music that reflects where I am today.
“Thank you for your continued support throughout the years. Your loyalty has never gone unnoticed, and I am forever humbly grateful.
“Sincerely, Steve Perry”.
Perry last performed a full Journey concert in early 1987, though he has reunited with the band for select occasions, including appearing with his former bandmates during their Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction in 2017, when he delivered a speech but did not perform.
The latest exchange follows earlier reports in which Perry addressed speculation about a potential Journey reunion as the group plans a major run of shows.
Journey’s “Final Frontier” tour is set to begin February 28th in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and Cain has said he plans to leave the band at the conclusion of the trek, which is expected to stretch over a couple of years. For now, Perry’s message makes clear that any return to the stage with Journey is not on the table.
