Who owns the band Journey? This question has intrigued fans and music enthusiasts alike for years. The iconic rock band, known for hits like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms,” has undergone various changes in ownership over the years. Understanding the history of ownership can shed light on the band’s evolution and the intricate dynamics behind its formation and success. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of ownership behind the legendary band Journey.
The band Journey was formed in San Francisco, California, in 1973. Its original lineup included Steve Perry on vocals, Gregg Rolie on keyboards, Darrell Brown on guitar, Ross Valory on bass, and Prairie Prince on drums. Over the years, the band has undergone several lineup changes, with Perry being the only constant member throughout its entire career.
In the early years, the band’s ownership was relatively straightforward. The members owned the band collectively, with no specific individual claiming ownership. However, as the band gained popularity and success, the dynamics of ownership began to change.
In 1977, the band signed with Columbia Records, which became their record label. This deal brought in significant revenue, and the band members started to receive royalties and profits. However, the collective ownership structure remained, and the band continued to operate as a unified entity.
As the 1980s approached, the band’s lineup saw another significant change. Steve Perry left the band in 1987, and the remaining members continued on without him. This change in lineup also brought about a shift in ownership dynamics.
In 1991, the band’s original keyboardist, Gregg Rolie, left the band. This event marked the beginning of a series of ownership disputes among the remaining members. Ross Valory, the bassist, and Prairie Prince, the drummer, ended up owning the rights to the band’s name and music.
The ownership dispute led to a legal battle, with Ross Valory and Prairie Prince claiming that they owned the band’s name and music. Steve Perry, on the other hand, argued that he was still a member of the band and had rights to the name and music as well.
In 2017, the ownership issue was finally resolved when the remaining members of Journey, including Steve Perry, reached an agreement with Ross Valory and Prairie Prince. The settlement allowed the band to continue using the name “Journey” and perform together, with the understanding that the rights to the music and name were shared among the members.
Today, the ownership of the band Journey is a shared endeavor among its members. While Ross Valory and Prairie Prince still hold the rights to the band’s name and music, the band’s legacy and success are a testament to the collective efforts of all its members over the years.
In conclusion, the question of who owns the band Journey has been a complex and evolving issue. From its early days of collective ownership to the legal battles and settlements, the band’s ownership has been shaped by its members’ contributions and the changing landscape of the music industry. Despite the challenges, Journey remains an enduring legacy of rock music, owned and cherished by its members and fans worldwide.
