Journey
Raised On Radio
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1986 Original with insert. Released in 1986, Journey’s "Raised on Radio" marked a notable shift in both the band’s lineup and musical direction. After the massive success of their preceding albums "Escape" and "Frontiers," internal tensions led to the departure of longtime bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith during the recording process. Steve Perry, the band’s lead vocalist, assumed a more dominant role, not only producing the album but also steering its creative vision. This influence resulted in a smoother, more radio-friendly sound that incorporated pop and R&B elements, diverging from the harder rock edge that had previously defined Journey’s work.

"Raised on Radio" produced several hit singles, including "Be Good to Yourself," "Suzanne," and "I’ll Be Alright Without You," which showcased the band’s embrace of melodic hooks and polished production. Despite its commercial success, with the album going double platinum, the record is often viewed as a transitional chapter in Journey’s catalog, reflecting both the peak and strain within the group at the time. The subsequent tour would be their last with Perry until the late 1990s, further underscoring the album’s place as a significant yet bittersweet milestone in Journey’s history.