Bottom line ... Russ and Steve are out in the cold, as far as making money off the band's name -- and now they've got this lawsuit on their hands too, for breach of fiduciary duty. ©2020 EHM PRODUCTIONS,INC. Neal and Jonathan say the band name is already licensed to another corporation called "Elmo" ... which was set up by former lead singer Steve Perry, Neal and Jonathan back in 1985. That group was the opening act for Journey, and by September 1978, Steve had joined Journey. 4,307 talking about this. In 1976, Steve left Berklee to tour and record with French jazz-fusion violinist Jean-Luc Ponty. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, Download the TMZ App on the Apple App Store, Download the TMZ App on the Google Play Store. … Don't stop believing ... in open auditions. Journey's scheduled to tour this summer with The Pretenders -- so expect to see a new drummer and bass player on stage if you're going. Steve Smith grew up in the Boston area and started playing drums at the age of 9 in 1963. Lead guitarist Neal, a founding member, and keyboard player Jonathan Cain are suing their long-time bassist Russ Valory and drummer Steve Smith, claiming they tried to take control of the band's corporation called Nightmare Productions, Inc. JOURNEY is one of the most popular American rock bands of all time, creating some of the best-known songs in modern music.

In early 1978, he toured in Ronnie Montrose's \"Open Fire\" instrumental rock group. Journey shared a special musical performance of "Don't Stop Believin'" on Saturday's "UNICEF Won't Stop" special. Neal and Jonathan say their rhythm section recently decided to hang it up. Get TMZ breaking news sent right to your browser! According to the lawsuit, Russ and Steve allegedly thought the move would give them access to the "Journey" name, thereby allowing them to make millions for themselves after retiring. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. © 2020 EHM PRODUCTIONS,INC. Journey Fires Two Band Members After Alleged Coup to Steal Name Journey We Finally Stopped Believing!!! Ill-conceived plan though, according to docs, obtained by TMZ. Waiting for your permission to load the comments. With Journe…

He studied music at the Berklee College of Music from 1972 to 1976. Read More May 04, 2020 - Journey 2020 Tour Cancelled Due To COVID-19 Pandemic Journey's leader, Neal Schon, is sending his bassist and drummer on their "Separate Ways" ... for allegedly trying to hijack the group name in a scheme that's landed them all in court. Journey's official website for fan news, tour schedules, and anything Journey! Neal and Johnathan -- who co-wrote most of the band's huge hits with Perry -- also want damages of at least $10 million. 2 Members Booted After Alleged Coup.