Journey co-founder Neal Schon is pouring cold water on claims that he forced lead singer Arnel Pineda to perform the band's tour.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Pineda recently spoke with Rolling Stone, saying that he was basically forced to play the tour and that his bandmates didn't consult him. Schon obviously took issue with that, taking to
Facebook to share his own thoughts."Over the years, Journey has always been about the music and the fans first," he wrote. "There's been some recent press and speculation that doesn't reflect the full picture. Touring at this level involves many moving parts, and decisions are made collectively with our team, including management, agents, and promoters."
"Like any long-running band, there are moments where people feel the pressure differently. I respect that, and I have nothing but appreciation for what everyone brings to the stage," Schon wrote in his statement. "For clarity, no one was ever prevented by me from making their own personal decisions. At the same time, we were all advised by our representatives that there are contractual obligations tied to touring that need to be honored."
Journey Singer Speaks Out
Previously, Pineda said he told Schon and Jonathan Cain that he wanted to retire. He claimed neither responded to him when he reached out to them. Pineda first joined the band in 2007 but appears ready to hang things up.
"I have a personal problem that's taking a toll on me. It's getting in my head, emotionally," he said. "I told them that I was a wreck and needed a little more time so that I could fix my family. But I still have to do this."
He reportedly wasn't happy that Journey booked 60 dates on its U.S. Final Frontier tour for 2026. The singer claimed no one consulted him about the schedule. However, Schon says, "Dude, no one's making him stay. He's his own man."
He also added, "Not explaining anything straightening out the narrative. I've been seeing where the finger is pointed to me. I didn't make anybody come on tour."
