Few voices in rock history have the power, passion, and unmistakable soul of Steve Perry. Often dubbed “The Voice,” Perry rose to fame as the electrifying frontman of Journey, delivering some of the most iconic anthems of the late ’70s and ’80s. His soaring tenor, emotional delivery, and timeless lyrics helped define an era—and continue to resonate decades later. Whether belting out arena-shaking rock epics or pouring his heart into tender ballads, Steve Perry’s music strikes a chord that spans generations.
But his legacy doesn’t stop at Journey. Perry’s solo career also soared, proving that his magic wasn’t confined to a band. From chart-topping hits to deep-cut fan favorites, his catalog is packed with unforgettable tracks that showcase his vocal brilliance and heartfelt storytelling.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Steve Perry songs of all time—a curated list of the tracks that not only charted but captured hearts around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer discovering his genius, these songs are essential listening. So crank up the volume, sing along, and take a journey (pun intended) through the music that made Steve Perry a true rock legend.
1. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey (1981)
Released in 1981 on the album Escape, “Don’t Stop Believin’” is more than just a song—it’s an anthem of resilience and hope. With its iconic piano intro and soaring chorus, Steve Perry’s vocals ride the wave of Jonathan Cain’s melodic composition and Neal Schon’s electric guitar riffs. What makes this track timeless is its unconventional structure: it builds slowly, delaying the chorus until the final moments, keeping listeners hooked. It didn’t top the charts immediately but grew into a cultural phenomenon, especially after being featured in The Sopranos and Glee. Today, it’s one of the most downloaded classic rock songs of all time and a staple at sports stadiums and karaoke nights worldwide. Perry’s passionate delivery inspires generations to “hold on to that feelin’.”
2. Open Arms – Journey (1982)
“Open Arms,” released in 1982 as part of the Escape album, is arguably one of the most heartfelt ballads in rock history. A masterclass in emotional vulnerability, the song showcases Perry’s ability to blend raw emotion with vocal power. Co-written with Jonathan Cain, it nearly didn’t make the album, but its release proved pivotal—reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The gentle piano and swelling strings provide a tender backdrop for Perry’s plea for reconciliation, making it a wedding and prom favorite for decades. The track’s simplicity is its strength, allowing Perry’s voice to shine with sincerity and longing, resonating with anyone who’s ever asked for a second chance in love.
3. Oh Sherrie – Steve Perry (1984)
Steve Perry’s 1984 solo debut single “Oh Sherrie” burst onto the scene with a blend of arena rock energy and personal storytelling. Released on his Street Talk album, the track was inspired by Perry’s real-life girlfriend, Sherrie Swafford, and it’s as intimate as it is anthemic. The song opens with a punchy synth line and driving beat, setting the stage for Perry’s explosive vocals. It quickly climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving he could hold his own outside of Journey. The music video, which humorously breaks the fourth wall, added to its appeal during the golden age of MTV. “Oh Sherrie” remains a high point in Perry’s solo catalog, a perfect mix of personal passion and pop-rock polish.
4. Faithfully – Journey (1983)
Released in 1983 on Journey’s Frontiers album, “Faithfully” is the quintessential tour-life ballad, written by Jonathan Cain and elevated by Steve Perry’s heartfelt performance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the sacrifices and devotion that come with life on the road. Perry’s voice conveys both weariness and unwavering love, making the track deeply relatable to anyone juggling career and relationships. Its lush arrangement and sweeping melody have made it a favorite among slow-dance playlists and wedding serenades. Unlike many rock ballads, “Faithfully” is deeply honest without veering into melodrama, and Perry’s delivery ensures it hits like a love letter every time.
5. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) – Journey (1983)
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” roared onto the airwaves in 1983 with the release of Frontiers, delivering one of Journey’s most aggressive and emotionally charged performances. Opening with thunderous synths and a commanding guitar riff, the track sees Perry channel heartbreak into vocal firepower. The lyrics explore the pain of a breakup, but instead of wallowing, they surge forward with determination. Though the music video was famously criticized for its air-instrument theatrics, the song itself became a fan favorite and a live show staple. Perry’s voice, full of grit and vulnerability, rides the sonic storm, making “Separate Ways” a cathartic anthem for anyone facing emotional crossroads.
6. Foolish Heart – Steve Perry (1984)
“Foolish Heart,” released in 1984 from Perry’s Street Talk, showcases a softer, introspective side of the rock vocalist. Stripped of bombastic guitars and thundering drums, the ballad leans into a minimalistic arrangement of gentle keyboards and smooth bass, allowing Perry’s voice to take center stage. The song is a plea for emotional caution, as Perry sings to his own heart, warning it not to leap too quickly into love again. The vulnerability in his performance is palpable—subtle, soulful, and sincere. It reached the Top 20 on Billboard’s Hot 100, proving that Perry could captivate listeners just as powerfully with restraint as with his signature vocal acrobatics.
7. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’ – Journey (1979)
Journey’s first Top 40 hit, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’,” released in 1979 on Evolution, marks the moment the band began its climb to rock superstardom. Built on a bluesy groove and inspired by Sam Cooke’s “Nothing Can Change This Love,” the song channels heartbreak into a gritty, soulful performance. Perry’s vocals simmer with betrayal and pain, especially in the iconic outro chant of “na na na na na,” which became a sing-along staple. The track’s raw emotion and infectious rhythm laid the foundation for Journey’s signature blend of rock and soul, with Perry’s voice as the magnetic centerpiece.
8. Lights – Journey (1978)
Originally released in 1978 on Infinity, “Lights” is a tender love song to San Francisco, Journey’s hometown. It was one of Perry’s earliest contributions to the band and remains one of his most beloved. The song’s laid-back rhythm and smooth guitar work create a dreamy atmosphere, perfectly complementing Perry’s warm, nostalgic vocals. Though it didn’t chart highly upon its initial release, “Lights” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Journey’s live shows—especially poignant when performed in the Bay Area. It’s a beautiful example of how a simple melody and heartfelt lyrics can stand the test of time.
9. Who’s Crying Now – Journey (1981)
“Who’s Crying Now,” released in 1981 on the Escape album, marked a shift toward a more polished, melodic Journey sound. The song opens with a smooth, jazzy piano line and builds into a soaring chorus that highlights Perry’s dynamic range. The lyrics tell a story of a love gone sour, with Perry delivering each line with a mix of sorrow and quiet triumph. Neal Schon’s expressive guitar solo at the end adds a dramatic flair, bringing the emotional journey full circle. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidified Journey’s place at the forefront of early ’80s rock radio.
10. Any Way You Want It – Journey (1980)
Blazing with energy, “Any Way You Want It” exploded onto the scene in 1980 as the lead track from Departure. Co-written by Perry and Neal Schon, the song is a high-octane celebration of freedom and fun. With a driving rhythm, infectious hooks, and Perry’s electrifying vocals, it’s pure rock adrenaline. The track quickly became a concert favorite and a radio staple, embodying the party spirit of the early ’80s. Its call-and-response chorus invites audience participation, and its upbeat vibe makes it nearly impossible not to move to. “Any Way You Want It” is Journey at its most exuberant—and Perry at his most electrifying.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
