Neal Schon Breaks Down Journey's Farewell Tour: 'It Doesn't Mean the Rest of Us Are Going to Stop'

Neal Schon Discusses Journey's Farewell Tour and Future Plans

Journey founder Neal Schon has significant plans for the band's farewell tour, his life afterward, and potential projects including a memoir and a band biopic. Over nearly 50 years, Journey has experienced numerous lineup changes but has repeatedly bounced back. Neal Schon, the only constant member, formed the band in 1973 shortly after leaving Santana.

The Journey Through the Years

Schon has led the band through many phases: from the departure of original singer Gregg Rolie, to their peak in the 1980s with Steve Perry, through tough times in the early 2000s without Perry, and an unexpected resurgence about 20 years ago. This comeback was fueled by appearances in popular culture like The Sopranos, Glee, the San Francisco Giants promotions, the musical Rock of Ages, and the arrival of current vocalist Arnel Pineda.

The Final Frontier Tour

The farewell tour, called the Final Frontier, is set to begin in February in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and will conclude sometime the following year. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain has announced plans to retire after the tour. However, Neal Schon has expressed a different outlook.

"I carry the Journey torch wherever I go and that sentiment and spirit will always remain," Schon said in a press release announcing the tour. "While this marks a farewell to one powerful chapter of the Journey we’ve shared, I want everyone to know – I’m not done."

Author's Summary

Neal Schon affirms that while Journey's farewell tour marks the end of an era, his personal commitment to the band's legacy and music will continue well beyond the final show.

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Rolling Stone Rolling Stone — 2025-11-07

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