Arnel Pineda took some serious criticism for his performance with Journey at the band’s Rock In Rio performance last Sunday (September 15), and now, following the backlash, the frontman says he’ll step away from the band if enough fans vote for him to “go”. Deen Castronovo has also defended him and his performance.
Arnel said in his post, in part:
“I am very aware of this, no one more than me in this world feels so devastated about this… It’s really amazing how one thousand right things you have done will be forgotten just cause of this.. and of all the place, its in Rock In Rio. Mentally and emotionally, I’ve suffered already, and I’m still sufferring.. but I’ll be ok..”
He adds:
“So here’s the deal… I am offering you a chance now (especially those who hated me and never liked me from the very beginning) to simply text go and stay right here… and if go reaches 1 million, I’m stepping out for good.”
Journey drummer Deen Castronovo has since issued the following statement on his social media:
“I don’t do social media much, if at all anymore. My Social Media Manager, Karen, runs my sites and posts for me. So, I miss a lot, unless it’s brought to my attention.
Arnel has risen to the challenge of Journey’s catalog, night after night, year after tiring year! He gives to you all and journeys, the best that he can give you. Out of maybe a handful of shows in 17 years, Arnel has faced the facts. The voice is a biological instrument, subject to weather, fatigue, viruses, bacteria, jet lag etc. Sometimes it does not, cannot, and will not cooperate when needed. So, what’s the point of hammering a human being over something they have no control over??
To the trolls, you are the blessed many. The ones who can armchair sing and trash the few that do what he does every night. They do not have that luxury; they must bring it each and every night or face you and your overinflated opinions! If you can do better- then do it!
I know very few who can pull off what Arnel does without ego and with passion and grace. Back off trolls! You are messing with my family now and I am a rabid protector of my own!!!
This is America, where everyone and anyone can voice their opinion. Consider this though when you do. Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary? We’ve all seen that meme, and it rings true here as it does anywhere it’s posted.
To the people who get it, thank you, we appreciate you!
Despite this social media frenzy, we can’t forget Journey’s impact on music. From their niche hits to their number ones, they always had a way of getting people on their feet and keeping them there. Need to remember? Check out the classic below.