Journey’s longtime keyboardist and guitarist Jonathan Cain has officially left the band, as revealed by lead guitarist Neal Schon in a recent social media announcement. This marks a significant turning point for the iconic rock group.
Schon shared the news on X (formerly Twitter) late Thursday night into early Friday, stating, “Jonathan Cain announced his farewell to Journey tonight. I’m nowhere near done! Journey has so much more life ahead! I’m sure we will have a great tour!” But here’s where it gets interesting: when a fan pointed out how many original members have exited the band over the years, Schon explained, “He wants to do his ministry.” This sheds light on Cain’s reason for leaving — a decision rooted in his spiritual calling rather than any internal band drama.
With Cain’s departure, Neal Schon stands as the last original member still active in Journey. While drummer Deen Castronovo has been with the band since 1998, his arrival came well after Journey’s heyday in the ’70s and ’80s. Other members like singer Arnel Pineda, who joined in 2007, and more recent additions—keyboardist Jason Derlatka and bassist Todd Jensen—represent a newer iteration of the band, following the controversial departures of past members Ross Valory and Steve Smith.
This history isn’t without tension. Schon and Cain previously engaged in legal battles over the band's finances while they were still working together, a feud that only settled in 2024. Their resolution allowed the band to move forward, but it reminds us of the complex relationships behind the scenes in legendary groups.
As Cain shifts his focus to his ministry work, he has also released a new single titled "No One Else," which pays tribute to the late right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. This move may spark debate, given the political nature of the tribute. Cain’s role extends beyond music; he’s served as a worship leader at the City of Destiny church in Florida—a congregation once led by his wife, Paula White-Cain, who held a prominent position as head of the White House Faith Office during President Trump's administration.
Currently, Journey has no confirmed tour dates, although the band hinted back in August that they are planning a tour for 2026-2027. Fans eager for live shows will want to keep an eye out for announcements.
This evolution in Journey's lineup raises provocative questions: What does it mean for a legendary band when its lineup transforms so drastically? Can the spirit and sound of Journey survive without most of its classic members? And how do personal convictions shape the path musicians choose when balancing fame with faith?
What are your thoughts? Do you believe Cain’s departure marks the end of an era or the start of a new chapter for Journey? Jump into the conversation and share your view!
