Journey Through Time: A Look Back at “Who’s Crying Now” by Journey

Unraveling the Emotion Behind a Timeless Classic

Journey, the iconic American rock band, is best known for their timeless classics that evoke raw emotion and nostalgia. Formed in 1973 by former members of Santana, Neal Schon and Gregg Rolie, Journey has had an illustrious career, creating uplifting anthems that have resonated with fans throughout the decades. Notably, the band’s lineup evolved until Steve Perry’s addition as lead vocalist in 1977, a move that would solidify the band’s sound and elevate them to international stardom.

One of their more introspective and poignant tracks is “Who’s Crying Now,” from the 1981 album “Escape.” This song, co-written by Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain, showcases Perry’s powerful and distinctive voice, along with Cain’s keyboard prowess, Schon’s masterful guitar work, Ross Valory’s bass, and the precise drumming of Steve Smith. “Who’s Crying Now” is a perfect example of Journey’s ability to create enduring ballads that capture the emotional complexity of love and loss.

The lyrics of “Who’s Crying Now” delve into the dynamics of a tumultuous relationship that leaves both parties questioning who is hurting more. Perry’s vocal delivery expertly conveys the heartache and confusion that accompanies such a situation. This emotional resonance connected with fans, rocketing the song to the No. 4 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Despite the band’s immense success, which includes 19 Top 40 singles and 75 million albums sold worldwide, Journey has faced their fair share of criticism. Detractors argue that some of their music can be formulaic and overly commercial. However, it is important to consider the context of the time in which these songs were created. The 1980s were marked by a shift towards a polished, radio-friendly sound, and Journey’s music was not immune to this trend.

Nonetheless, Journey’s influence and impact cannot be denied. Their accolades include being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 and receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005. In addition, the band’s songs continue to be played at sports events, covered by countless artists, and are even featured in Broadway musicals.

“Who’s Crying Now” remains a testament to Journey’s ability to create music that touches the soul, transcending generations and standing the test of time. It is a song that showcases the band’s talent and skill at putting the human experience into song, and it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

Charting the Journey of a Classic Hit

“Who’s Crying Now” by Journey was initially released on June 21, 1981, as the first single from their wildly successful album Escape. The song, which showcased the band’s more introspective and mellow side, quickly became a favorite among fans and music enthusiasts alike.

Upon its release, “Who’s Crying Now” entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart at position number 73. Thanks to its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, the song steadily climbed the charts, eventually peaking at number 4 on October 3, 1981. Additionally, “Who’s Crying Now” reached number 2 on the Canadian RPM Top Singles chart, proving its appeal to audiences beyond the United States.

Journey’s “Who’s Crying Now” remained on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for a total of 20 weeks, further solidifying its status as one of the band’s most enduring hits. In fact, the song’s success propelled the Escape album to reach multi-platinum status, selling over 12 million copies worldwide.

The song’s chart performance wasn’t just limited to its initial release. Over the years, “Who’s Crying Now” has resurfaced on various charts due to its timeless appeal and the continued popularity of classic rock radio stations. For instance, in 2008, the song re-entered the UK Singles Chart at number 99, more than two decades after its original release.

In summary, “Who’s Crying Now” by Journey has enjoyed considerable chart success, both upon its initial release and throughout the years. With its relatable themes and memorable melody, it’s no surprise that this classic hit has stood the test of time and remains a staple on radio stations and playlists worldwide.

Breaking Down the Lyrics: A Reflection of the Times

“Who’s Crying Now” by Journey is an emotional ballad that touched the hearts of many when it was first released in 1981. The lyrics delve into the complex nature of love and relationships, particularly the pain and heartache that can come from it. It reflects the spirit of the ’80s, a time when people were dealing with changing social norms, life struggles, and the pursuit of happiness.

The lyrics, written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry, express the bittersweet nature of love – how something so good can also bring about immense pain. The lines, “Caught on a one-way street, the taste of bittersweet / Love will survive somehow, some way” reveal the singer’s belief in the power of love and its ability to endure despite the challenges.

The chorus poses the question, “Wonder, who’s crying now?” which is a reflection of the uncertainty and vulnerability that comes with love. The lyrics describe two individuals who are determined and headstrong, yet find themselves clashing in their relationship. However, there is a sense of hope within the song, as it emphasizes that the love they have for each other is worth fighting for, and their bond will never die.

In conclusion, the lyrics of “Who’s Crying Now” capture not only the emotional rollercoaster that love can bring but also the resilience of the human spirit in the face of heartache. The song resonates with listeners as it captures an era in which people were grappling with their emotions and searching for meaning in their lives.

A Journey Through Time: The Music Video for “Who’s Crying Now”

With the rise of MTV and the ever-growing popularity of music videos in the early ’80s, it’s no surprise that Journey’s hit song “Who’s Crying Now” would get its own visual treatment. The music video for this iconic track, released in 1981, is a perfect reflection of the era, featuring Journey at their peak, a blend of live footage and conceptual storytelling, and the unmistakable artistic touch of the video’s director, Bruce Gowers.

Bruce Gowers, a prolific music video director of the time, had worked with numerous artists, including Queen, Michael Jackson, and Rod Stewart. His creative vision for “Who’s Crying Now” was to showcase the band’s live performance energy, while also weaving in a narrative that complemented the song’s themes of love and heartache. The production was done using various locations, from live concert footage to carefully chosen sets that created a moody, atmospheric backdrop for the narrative segments.

The video’s budget, while not publicly disclosed, was estimated to be on par with other music videos of the time. The investments made in production, location, and editing were evident in the final product, which showcased a level of sophistication that was beginning to emerge in the world of music video creation. The use of multiple locations and the blend of concert footage with the storyline demonstrated the director’s ability to balance the two elements effectively, giving fans a visual experience that did justice to the powerful emotions conveyed in the song.

In the video, while the band performs their parts on stage, a young couple goes through the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. The contrast between the electrifying stage presence of Journey’s members and the intimate portrayal of the couple’s journey adds depth to the video, making it a memorable piece of visual storytelling that still holds up today.

Over the years, “Who’s Crying Now” has remained one of Journey’s most beloved songs, and the music video’s unique blend of performance and narrative has contributed to its enduring legacy. With the passage of time, fans have taken it upon themselves to pay tribute to the song and its video through various YouTube uploads, ranging from fan-made music video compilations to insightful video essays analyzing the song’s themes and the band’s impact on popular culture.

In the ever-expanding landscape of music and visual art, the music video for “Who’s Crying Now” stands as a testament to Journey’s timeless appeal and their ability to create art that resonates with fans across generations.

The Mastermind Behind “Who’s Crying Now”

When it comes to the composer of the iconic song “Who’s Crying Now” by Journey, one can’t help but mention the talented Jonathan Cain. Joining the band in 1980, Cain has been an integral part of Journey’s success, contributing his exceptional songwriting and keyboard skills. Besides penning this memorable track, Cain has co-written several other notable hits for the band, such as “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms.” His songwriting prowess extends beyond Journey, having written or co-written hits for artists like Michael Bolton, Sammy Hagar, and even his wife, Paula White-Cain. With a career spanning over four decades, Jonathan Cain has certainly earned his place in the annals of rock music history.

Awards, Accolades, and Adaptations

Over the years, Journey’s classic hit “Who’s Crying Now” has received considerable praise and recognition. As the band’s first single from their massively successful album “Escape,” the song peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on October 17, 1981, marking the beginning of the band’s commercial peak. The infectious melody and powerful vocals continue to make it one of the most memorable and beloved tracks in Journey’s discography.

The song’s timeless appeal has also led to its inclusion in various forms of media. “Who’s Crying Now” has made its way into the world of television, appearing in the popular series “Glee” during a scene with Lea Michele’s character, Rachel Berry, performing a heartfelt solo. By incorporating this classic hit, the show introduced Journey’s music to a new generation of fans.

In addition to its TV appearance, “Who’s Crying Now” has also been featured in video games, most notably in the music-based game “Rock Band 3” as part of the “Journey Greatest Hits: Rock Band Edition” downloadable content. This adaptation allowed players to experience the song in an interactive and immersive way, further solidifying its status as a rock anthem.

This iconic song has inspired numerous cover versions over the years, showcasing its enduring appeal to a diverse array of artists. One notable cover comes from jazz pianist and composer Randy Waldman, who recorded a jazz-infused rendition of the song for his album “Unreel” in 2001. The seamless fusion of jazz and rock elements in this unique interpretation highlights the versatility of “Who’s Crying Now” as a timeless classic.

As a testament to its popularity, “Who’s Crying Now” has been performed live by Journey countless times since its release, often serving as a highlight of their concerts. The song’s enduring appeal, timeless message, and widespread recognition ensure that it will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.

Diving into the Musical Structure

As we delve into the musical structure of “Who’s Crying Now,” it’s worth noting that the song is written in the key of F major. The verse features a four-chord progression that alternates between the I chord (Fmaj7) and the VI chord (Dm7), followed by the IV chord (Bb) and the V chord (C). This progression lends a sense of familiarity and comfort to the song, while the use of major seventh chords adds a touch of sophistication and smoothness to the overall sound.

The chorus introduces a slight variation to the progression, starting with the IV chord (Bb), followed by the V chord (C), the I chord (F), and the VI chord (Dm). This change in progression adds a sense of uplift and resolution to the chorus, effectively capturing the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The song also features an instrumental bridge, where the chord progression shifts to the V chord (C), the IV chord (Bb), the II chord (Gm), and then back to the V chord (C). This bridge provides a refreshing change in tonality before leading back into the familiar verse progression.

In terms of tempo, “Who’s Crying Now” falls into a moderate tempo of approximately 77 beats per minute (BPM). This tempo lends a relaxed, yet emotionally charged feel to the song, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the emotional journey it portrays. The song also features a 4/4 time signature, with emphasis placed on the second and fourth beats of each measure, giving it a laid-back, groove-oriented feel.

One of the standout features of “Who’s Crying Now” lies in the guitar solo performed by Neal Schon. The solo, which occurs after the second chorus, showcases Schon’s exceptional guitar skills and his ability to convey raw emotion through his playing. The solo is primarily composed of pentatonic scales, with the use of bends, slides, and vibrato techniques to add depth and texture to the sound.

In conclusion, the musical structure of “Who’s Crying Now” is a beautiful amalgamation of well-crafted chord progressions, a moderate tempo, and a captivating guitar solo. The song’s composition and arrangement effectively evoke a sense of emotional intensity, making it an unforgettable classic in Journey’s extensive discography.