This video provides an educational breakdown, vocal analysis, and performance insight into “Who’s Crying Now” by Journey, one of the most iconic bands in classic rock history. Featuring the soulful, soaring vocals of Steve Perry, this song blends emotional vulnerability with technical brilliance—and this live performance captures all of it.
As a vocal coach, I explore how Steve Perry creates his signature tone: warm, resonant, and powerful across a high tenor range, yet filled with subtle emotional details like breathiness, vowel shaping, and Sam Cooke-inspired phrasing. Perry's voice blends the soul influences of R&B with the theatricality and range demands of arena rock—all while staying grounded in expressive storytelling.
Journey’s lineup on this track features Steve Perry (vocals), Neal Schon (guitar), Jonathan Cain (keys), Ross Valory (bass), and Steve Smith (drums)—many of whom brought experience from other legendary bands like Santana. Together, they deliver a performance that’s both polished and deeply human.
In this video you will learn:
🔍 High Tenor Technique: How Steve Perry blends a baritone’s warmth with a tenor’s range for effortless high notes.
🎶 Sam Cooke Influence: The soulful phrasing, dynamic runs, and storytelling that nod to classic R&B.
🎧 Posture & Resonance: How physical alignment and subtle head movement affect vocal tone and control.
🧠 Breath Control & Tone: Why Perry’s breathy phrases and “cry” textures enhance emotional delivery.
📚 Band History: A quick look at Journey’s evolution, Perry’s solo departure, and his emotional return with a soul album in 2018.
💥 Related Artists:
Perfect for fans of REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Boston, Toto, Bryan Adams, and anyone who loves 1980s rock, soulful vocals, and emotionally powerful performances.
💬 What do you think is the most powerful Journey vocal performance? Let me know in the comments—and tell me what I should break down next from Steve Perry’s incredible discography! 🎤🇺🇸
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Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction to the Band's Journey
00:38 Analyzing the Vocal Performance
00:57 Influences and Inspirations
02:08 Challenges and Comebacks
03:57 Technical Vocal Insights
06:18 The Legacy of Steve Perry
11:17 Conclusion and Farewell
🛑 Watch the Original Video Without Interruptions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMD8hBsA-RI
❗Check out Journey here: http://journeymusic.com
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#VocalAnalysis #education #musiceducation #VocalCoachReacts #BethRoars #Journey #Faithfully #StevePerry #ClassicRock #PowerBallad #VocalCoachReacts #VocalAnalysis #RockVocals #USArock #1980sRock #BethRoars #TenorVoice #JonathanCain #NealSchon #LivePerformance #ArenaRock
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Copyright Disclaimer:
Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, commentary, education, and research.
This video is intended for educational and commentary purposes only. All rights to the original performance remain with the original copyright holders.
My analysis focuses on vocal technique, emotional expression, and the cultural significance of the performance, and is designed to educate and inform viewers about the artistry involved.
No copyright infringement is intended.
Support the original artist by watching and purchasing their work.