White House visits aren’t a contentious issues in sports only. In a pair of Facebook posts, Journey guitarist Neal Schon revealed his anger when bandmates Jonathan Cain, Ross Valory and Arnel Pineda were seen visiting Donald Trump’s home in D.C. last week, leaving everyone wondering if the band that wrote timeless hits like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Any Way You Want It” could have a breakup in its near future.
Schon wrote:
“This is not the Journey I started in 1972 and have been fighting to protect since the beginning. I’ve discussed this many times with management and council and they both agreed there should never be anything to do with religious beliefs or politics with Journey.
[…]
“I will remain strong and consistent with the belief we’ve always shared and agreed upon – Journey should never be used and exploited by anyone , especially band members for politics or any one religion. I’ve been here since 1972 and this has always been our belief. This was with intent to exploit the brand and use the name.
[…]
“This clearly shows no respect or unity, just divide.“
https://www.facebook.com/schonmusic/posts/1497420596985077
https://www.facebook.com/schonmusic/posts/1502833139777156
Schon claimed he had no advance knowledge of the visit even though the band’s name was attached in publicity. In a tweet on Monday morning, Schon hinted he may leave the band.
One way or the other I won't be dealing with any more toxic shit. Done ✅ https://t.co/YI6J5QZIOh
— NEAL SCHON MUSIC (@NealSchonMusic) August 7, 2017
In the last week, he’s also revealed that tensions in the band have been high for two years, and the recent developments could lead to a lineup change.
No it's been going on now for close to 2 years. https://t.co/NffQNS8Sn9
— NEAL SCHON MUSIC (@NealSchonMusic) August 6, 2017
Yes very pissed and I'm not sure. The last 2 years have nog been easy. Was fine till then. https://t.co/wQ95nLa0Jz
— NEAL SCHON MUSIC (@NealSchonMusic) July 29, 2017
Just go away already. The recordings are enough.