How many original members left in Journey?

Journey, an iconic American rock band formed in 1973, has seen its lineup evolve over the years. The band, known for hits like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms,” has had a few changes in its original members. Let’s take a closer look at the number of original members who have left the band and the reasons behind their departures.

When Journey was formed, the original lineup included Steve Perry on vocals, Neal Schon on guitar, Ross Valory on bass, and Deen Castronovo on drums. Over the years, the band has undergone several lineup changes, but the number of original members who have left remains relatively small.

The first original member to leave Journey was Ross Valory. He left the band in 1985 after the release of the album “Raised on Radio.” Valory’s departure was due to personal reasons, and he was replaced by Jeff Scott Soto. Although Valory returned to the band in 1996, he left again in 2001, and was replaced by Ross Valory Jr.

The second original member to leave Journey was Deen Castronovo. He left the band in 1988 after the album “Raised on Radio” was released. Castronovo was replaced by Steve Smith, who became a permanent member of the band. Deen Castronovo later formed his own band, Deen Castronovo’s Starband.

As of now, only one original member remains in Journey: Neal Schon. Steve Perry left the band in 1987, and was replaced by Steve Walsh. Perry returned to the band in 1996, but left again in 1998. He was replaced by Jeff Scott Soto, who has been with the band since 1998. In 2017, Perry made a brief return to the band, but he has since left again.

In conclusion, Journey has seen three original members leave the band: Ross Valory, Deen Castronovo, and Steve Perry. Neal Schon remains the only original member, and the band continues to tour and record music with various vocalists over the years.