journey separate

• Songwriter Interviews
• Song Writing
• Fact or Fiction
• They're Playing My Song
• Songfacts Pages
• Songwriting Legends
• Songfacts Podcast
• Amanda Flinner
• Bruce Pollock
• Corey O'Flanagan
• Dan MacIntosh
• Laura Antonelli
• Leslie Michele Derrough
• Maggie Grimason
• Nicole Roberge
• Roger Catlin
• Shawna Ortega
• Stephanie Myers
• Trevor Morelli

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) by Journey

Songfacts®:

• Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain and lead vocalist Steve Perry wrote this song on tour during a period when two of the band members were going through painful divorces due to the stresses (and temptations) of life on the road. According to Journey's Time3 compilation, with guitarist Neal Schon and bass player Ross Valory going through painful - and expensive - divorces, Perry and Cain thought there should be some way to dredge something positive out of such circumstances. "There's got to be a more soulful way of looking at this," Perry told his collaborator, Cain. The pair worked out the tune in a hotel room using Cain's little Casio keyboard and the entire band worked up the fresh song the next afternoon at soundcheck, inserting the party-finished song into the program that night. "I think he mumbled his way through half the lyrics," said Cain, "but the audience just came unglued." The song was sitting in the band's pocket long before the beginning of sessions for the next album. Released as the first single off Frontiers , it zoomed up the charts to #8 in March 1983.
• This was used in the TV series The O.C. in Season 1 Episode 21 (2004) when Seth and Ryan are on their way to the airport. It also plays in the first episode of the Netflix series GLOW (2017) in a fantasy scene where the main characters battle it out in the wrestling ring. Other uses of the song include: The Simpsons ("All's Fair in Oven War" - 2004) Cold Case ("Greed" - 2004) Yes Man (2008) TRON: Legacy (2010) >> Suggestion credit : Anthony - Hermosa Beach, CA
• When MTV launched in 1981, the race was on to come up with unusual concepts for music videos. Journey staked their claim with the first ever "air band" video. That's right, the group played pretend instruments for much of the clip. Shot on a wharf in New Orleans, it was directed by Tom Buchholtz, who like many music video directors of the time, came from the world of directing commercials. Journey were dragged kicking and screaming into the video era. They knew MTV exposure was crucial for sales, but hated making the videos and left the concepts up to the directors, which is how they ended up on a wharf playing pretend instruments. In the book I Want My MTV by Craig Marks, we learn that lead singer Steve Perry cut his hair shortly before the shoot, and also that there was some drama on the set. Perry brought his girlfriend to the set - the same girl he sings about in " Oh Sherrie " - and she did not want Steve to have another girl playing his love interest in the video. "Sherrie was jealous and possessive," said Jonathan Cain. "There was a big kicking and screaming session. Sherrie was giving Steve a very bad time about that girl." Years later, Beavis and Butt-Head gave it a good mocking.
• A remix by the composer Bryce Miller was used in the trailer for season 4 of the Netflix series Stranger Things in 2022. This version is surprisingly spooky, with the song's refrain sounding like a classic horror movie theme. The song quickly started trending and entered Billboard's Rock Digital Song Sales chart dated April 23, 2022. An extended version of the remix appears at the end of episode 8, "Papa," which sets the stage for a climatic battle. Steve Perry, a big fan of the show, signed off on the project and got involved after hearing a demo of the remix. It was his idea to do an extended version, which appears on the show's soundtrack. As for the significance of the lyrics, Bobby Gumm of the marketing firm that worked on the remix explained : "The characters, at the end of the third season, did all go their separate ways, and even the ones that are still living in the same town have gone their separate ways a little bit. They're in different cliques and things like that."
• Halestorm's vocalist Lzzy Hale covered this song with Daughtry in January 2023. The video for their version wasn't planned. "I don't think either of us, Lzzy or myself, were actually 'dressed' for a video shoot," said Chris Daughtry. "We were basically just trying to get some b-roll to capture the studio experience of recording this track. But when we got the footage back, it was like, 'Well... This looks way cooler than I expected, so... I guess we have a music video now?' Haha. It was the most low-key, low-pressure video I've ever done."
• More songs from Journey
• More songs about marital problems or divorce
• More songs used in TV shows
• More songs in heavy rotation in the early days of MTV
• More songs used on The Simpsons
• More songs used in Stranger Things
• More songs from 1983
• Lyrics to Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
• Journey Artistfacts

Comments: 22

• Montana Julian from Missoula, Mt It just seems to me that the thematic element of Separate Ways(Worlds Apart) musically speaking is a classical piece that I just can’t put my thumb on. Something maybe that Beethoven or Mozart might have done. Anyone else with a background in the classical classics hear what I am hearing?
• Seventhmist from 7th Heaven One of the most powerful songs ever made. Pain and anger in abundance, yet delivered with love and a last desperate touch of hope.
• Marc from -, Md First-ever interview with the girl in this video, including what she's doing now (plus never-published set pics): http://noblemania.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-girl-in-video-separate-ways-worlds.html.
• Nick from Ludlow, Ma I saw on another board about the gif of the opening air band part and searched for years who (At the time, I didn't know who anyone for Journey looked like, I'm a teen) so I saw the video and found out it was this song, I was shocked. I can't believe a song this epic was done so bad in a music video).
• Erica from Pensacola, Fl This is one for the mp3, morning workout/run! Love it!
• Jeff from Boston, Ma If your heart doesn't race when you hear this song you are dead inside.
• Jeff from Boston, Ma I agree the Frontiers album overall was bad, but this is a phenomenal song. If you can't relate to what this song is about, someday you will.
• Josep from Dubrovnik, Croatia Whenever this song comes on the radio, my brother punches my arm in rhythm with the guitar riff. Good times!
• Karen from Manchester, Nh I have to agree with most here...horrible video, but easily one of my favorite Journey songs (right up there with "Lovin', Touchin' Squeezin'"). This is one of those, "put the car windows UP, turn the volume UP, and sing along as loud as you can!"
• Jones from San Antonio, Tx It was a pretty dumb music video, but I love the song!!! -Steve Perry ROCKS!!!
• Chris from Meriden, Ct what makes the song great is the keyboard riff
• Ricky from Bountiful, Ut Holy crud, I laughed so hard I cried when I saw the video! But the song is... Epic. My band is working on a cover.
• Tony from Chicago, Il One of my favorite Breakup songs!!!!!!
• Aldrin from Manila, Philippines nice synthesizer sound accompanied by neil schon's deadly guitar riffs...
• Jennifer Harris from Grand Blanc, Mi I love the song and video! both mother and I love Journey.It hasn't been the same without Steve Perry.
• Benny from Chattanooga, Tn This is the song where Journey (my favorite band) officially "jumped the shark" God, Frontiers was so bad........
• Sanafabich from Santiago, Chile yeah, cheezy video but still great! you gotta love the 80's!
• Pete from Toronto, Canada this has got to be one of the cheeziest videos ever made! what was the director thinking http://youtube.com/watch?v=ZbZwAn3qOJU&search=Journey%20Seperate%20Ways
• Sara Mackenzie from Middle Of Nowhere, Fl good song!!!!!!!!!
• Michelle from Anaheim, Ca A long time ago, i was flipping channels in my parents room and on MTV they were showing the video, and little tidbits came up. the director had the band members playing air instruments-air guitar, air keyboards,etc.
• William from Toronto, Canada A good song. The synthesizers really emphasize the theme that the site has posted in my opinion.
• Mercedies from Soldotna, Ak This is one of my favorite journey songs. It's really emotional and the tune is awesome. You can actually feel what the band members are going through. A moving song really, and it's great live. When it's live you feel like you're there.

More Songfacts:

Sister Christian Night Ranger

"Sister Christian" was written by Night Ranger drummer Kelly Keagy, who was imploring his younger sister to be careful in her reckless youth, especially when "motoring" (driving around) with friends.

Last Nite The Strokes

The Strokes admitted to purloining Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers' "American Girl" for their hit "Last Nite."

Police Dog Blues Hugh Laurie

Hugh Laurie, star of the TV show House, had a minor hit in 2011 with "Police Dog Blues," an old Blues song from 1929.

That Don't Impress Me Much Shania Twain

Brad Pitt and Elvis both get mentions in the 1997 Shania Twain hit "That Don't Impress Me Much."

Do You Want To Dance Bobby Freeman

Bobby Freeman's '50s hit "Do You Want To Dance" was also a Hot 100 hit for Del Shannon, The Beach Boys, The Mamas & the Papas, Bette Midler and the Ramones.

Cum On Feel The Noize Slade

"Cum On Feel The Noise" was originally recorded by the British glam band Slade in 1973. Quiet Riot had their first hit with the song when they recorded it in 1983.

Editor's Picks

Rick Springfield Songwriter Interviews

Rick has a surprising dark side, a strong feminine side and, in a certain TV show, a naked backside. But he still hasn't found Jessie's Girl.

Hawksley Workman Songwriter Interviews

One of Canada's most popular and eclectic performers, Hawksley tells stories about his oldest songs, his plentiful side projects, and the ways that he keeps his songwriting fresh.

Phone Booth Songs Song Writing

Phone booths are nearly extinct, but they provided storylines for some of the most profound songs of the pre-cell phone era.

Macabre Mother Goose: The Dark Side of Children's Songs Song Writing

"London Bridge," "Ring Around the Rosie" and "It's Raining, It's Pouring" are just a few examples of shockingly morbid children's songs.

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About Transgenderism Song Writing

A history of songs dealing with transgender issues, featuring Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Morrissey and Green Day.

Rufus Wainwright Songwriter Interviews

Rufus Wainwright on "Hallelujah," his album Unfollow The Rules, and getting into his "lyric trance" on 12-hour walks.

Songfacts® Newsletter

A monthly update on our latest interviews, stories and added songs

Information

• Terms of Service
• Our Privacy Policy
• Google Privacy Policy
• Songfacts API
• Music History Calendar
• Song Licensing
• Affiliate Disclosure
• Privacy Manager
• X (Twitter)

Contribution

• Message Boards
• Songfacts Writers

©2024 Songfacts, LLC

Journey to the Heart: A Deep Dive into “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

Exploring the Depths of Journey’s Timeless Classic

Diving into journey’s enduring anthem “separate ways (worlds apart)”: a testament to the band’s undeniable talent and timeless impact on rock music..

When you think of iconic anthems from the ’80s, Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is undoubtedly one that comes to mind. Released in 1983 on their album Frontiers, this powerful rock ballad remains an enduring testament to the incredible talent and versatility of the band.

Journey, formed in 1973 in San Francisco, initially started as a progressive rock band but found their niche in the world of arena rock. The band’s lineup has seen several changes over the years, with notable members including renowned keyboardist Gregg Rolie, virtuoso guitarist Neal Schon, and, of course, the unforgettable voice of Steve Perry. It was the addition of Perry in 1977 that helped propel them to superstardom, with his incomparably emotive range and distinct vocal tone. While Perry has been absent from the band in recent years, his legacy remains a crucial part of what makes Journey so iconic.

“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” showcases the band’s incredible musicianship and their ability to create memorable melodies, powerful riffs, and heart-wrenching lyrics. Perry’s vocals shine in this song, telling the tale of a couple in the middle of a breakup, with a performance that pierces the soul. The combination of Schon’s soaring guitar and Jonathan Cain’s skillful keyboard work add to the emotional depth of the track, making it a timeless classic. The music video, however, has been criticized for its awkward air instrument performances, which in hindsight, could be considered somewhat endearing in the context of the era’s cheesy music videos.

Journey has received numerous accolades and awards, such as the prestigious Diamond certification for their 1981 album, Escape, and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. They have sold over 75 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. Throughout their career, Journey has continued to captivate audiences with their incredible live performances, their ability to create unforgettable anthems like “Don’t Stop Believin,” “Open Arms,” and, of course, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).”

In conclusion, Journey remains an influential and important band in the history of rock music, with “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” being a prime example of their incredible talent both lyrically and musically. Despite the occasional misstep, like a questionable music video choice, Journey has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.

Charting the Journey of “Separate Ways”

“separate ways: a rock ballad’s chart odyssey in the 80s music landscape”.

Released on January 5, 1983, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” quickly became a fan favorite and demonstrated Journey’s prowess in the realm of rock ballads. The song’s chart journey is an interesting tale, displaying both its successes and the changing landscape of the music industry during the early 80s.

Upon its release, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” debuted at number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. With its powerful guitar riffs and unforgettable chorus, the song steadily climbed the charts, ultimately reaching its peak position at number 8 just nine weeks later. Journey’s captivating power ballad remained in the top 10 for a total of four weeks, showcasing its staying power and resonating with audiences across the United States.

The song also found success on other charts, such as the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, where it peaked at an impressive number 3. On the international stage, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” fared well in Canada, peaking at number 12 on the RPM Top Singles chart.

However, not every chart told the same success story for Journey’s classic ballad. In the United Kingdom, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” struggled to find its footing, reaching only number 84 on the UK Singles Chart. This discrepancy in chart performance highlights the varying tastes and preferences of music listeners around the globe.

Despite the song’s mixed chart performance, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” has cemented its place in rock history and continues to be a beloved anthem for Journey fans. Its chart journey not only exemplifies the tumultuous nature of the music industry but also serves as a testament to the power of a well-crafted, emotionally resonant song.

Unlocking the Emotional Depth of “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

Someday, love will find you Break those chains that bind you One night will remind you How we touched and went our separate ways If he ever hurts you True love won’t desert you You know I still love you Though we touched and went our separate ways

Troubled times Caught between confusions and pain, pain, pain Distant eyes Promises we made were in vain, in vain, vain If you must go, I wish you love You’ll never walk alone Take care, my love Miss you, love

Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” features lyrics that dive deep into the emotional experience of love and heartbreak. The song, released in 1983, captures the spirit of the times and resonates with the challenges and uncertainties that marked the early 1980s. With its powerful lyrics and anthemic sound, the song quickly established itself as a rock classic.

The lyrics of “Separate Ways” convey a sense of longing and sadness for a love that has ended but still lingers in the hearts and minds of the individuals involved. The song paints a vivid picture of sleepless nights and the relentlessness of feeling that something is gone. This concept of love as a force that divides yet continues to bind people together, even after they’ve gone their separate ways, reflects the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

The 1980s were a time of change and transition, marked by events such as the Cold War, the rise of technology, and shifting cultural norms. These broader dynamics of the era are echoed in the lyrics’ themes of uncertainty, confusion, and pain. The song’s resolution – that true love will eventually find you and break the chains that bind you – offers a hopeful message amidst the turmoil.

Serving as a testament to the timeless appeal of Journey’s music and lyrics, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” will continue to resonate with fans and listeners for generations to come.

A Visual Journey: The Making of “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” Music Video

“journey’s iconic first music video, ‘separate ways (worlds apart),’ transports us back to the 80s with its passionate performance, bold fashion, and innovative camera techniques, making it a lasting emblem of rock history.”.

The music video for Journey’s 1983 hit “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is often heralded as a quintessential representation of the 80s music video era. Directed by Tom Buckholtz, the video showcases the band performing on a wharf with lead singer Steve Perry passionately belting out the lyrics, while the rest of the band mimics playing their instruments with no cords or amplifiers present. The video also features a love interest, played by actress Margaret Olmstead.

Interestingly, “Separate Ways” was Journey’s first music video, making the band relatively new to the concept of visual storytelling. With a modest budget and a simple premise, the video was shot in a single day in New Orleans, Louisiana. The band and crew completed the shoot despite freezing temperatures, adding an icy authenticity to the video’s waterfront setting.

Though not as elaborate as some of its contemporaries, the “Separate Ways” video is memorable for its innovative use of camera movement and angles. Buckholtz employed the “Ricochet Zoom,” a technique that involves moving the camera rapidly in one direction and then immediately zooming in the opposite direction. This effect creates a dynamic and energetic visual experience, perfectly complementing Journey’s powerful rock anthem.

Another notable aspect of the video is its strategic use of slow motion. This effect is used to emphasize important moments, such as when Steve Perry throws a handful of sand into the air or when guitarist Neal Schon leaps off a stack of equipment. These striking visuals have contributed to the video’s lasting impact and continued popularity.

Over the years, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” has been celebrated and parodied, with fans and other artists creating their own renditions and tributes. The music video has also been hailed as a nostalgic piece of 80s pop culture, with critics praising its bold fashion choices, such as the band’s infamous red leather pants, and its unabashedly dramatic performance style. In the end, the “Separate Ways” video remains an iconic and beloved artifact of Journey’s storied career.

A Deeper Dive into Jonathan Cain’s Genius

Jonathan Cain, the mastermind behind Journey’s iconic hit “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”, is no stranger to crafting memorable tunes that stand the test of time. As the band’s keyboardist and primary songwriter since 1980, his creative prowess has contributed to numerous Journey classics. Among his many accomplishments, Cain co-wrote the anthemic “Don’t Stop Believin'”, a song that remains a global phenomenon and one of the most downloaded tracks in the digital era. Additionally, Cain’s songwriting credits include other Journey hits like “Faithfully” and “Open Arms”, further solidifying his status as a legendary composer in the music industry. With a talent for creating songs that resonate with listeners across generations, Jonathan Cain’s influence on the rock and roll landscape is truly undeniable.

Awards, Accolades, and Appearances Galore

From billboard charts to glee and tron: legacy, “separate ways (worlds apart)” transcends genres and decades, proving its timeless rock anthem status..

“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” has certainly made a mark in the history of rock music since its release in 1983. The song peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing its wide appeal and success at the time. The song also secured a Gold certification by the RIAA in 2019, proving its lasting impact on the music scene.

Throughout the years, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” has been featured in various forms of media, solidifying its status as an iconic track. Fans of the hit TV series Glee would remember the exciting performance of the song in the season 5 episode “New New York” where it was powerfully sung by Lea Michele and Adam Lambert.

The song also made its way into the realm of movies, with the memorable inclusion in the 2010 blockbuster “Tron: Legacy,” where it played a pivotal role in setting the tone for one of the film’s most thrilling scenes. Video game enthusiasts would also recall hearing “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” in the action-packed Saints Row IV game as part of its in-game radio station.

As with any timeless classic, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” has inspired numerous covers and tributes by renowned artists over the years. One of the most notable renditions came from the Swedish pop group A*Teens in 1999, giving the song a fresh, youthful twist. The song has also been covered by In This Moment, an American heavy metal band, as part of their 2010 EP “The Dream – Ultraviolet Edition,” showcasing the versatility of the song across genres.

Overall, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” continues to leave an indelible mark in the world of music and media. Its enduring appeal, coupled with its successful chart performance and numerous appearances in films, TV shows, and games, only adds to the song’s impressive legacy.

Breaking Down the Musical Elements

Diving into the technical aspects of “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” we find a song that’s skillfully crafted to deliver an anthemic, arena-ready sound. Written in the key of E minor, the song employs a straightforward chord progression, with the verses predominantly using Em, D, and C chords, and the chorus switching to a G, D, Em, and C pattern. This progression creates a sense of urgency and emotion, which perfectly complements the song’s theme of love and heartbreak.

The tempo of “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” sits at a brisk 128 beats per minute, driving the song’s energy and making it an ideal track for both air guitar enthusiasts and those looking to dance their heartbreak away. The band’s skillful use of syncopation and rhythmic variation adds further excitement to the track, with the drums and bass working in tandem to create a solid foundation for the soaring vocals and blistering guitar work.

Instrumentally, the song is built on a foundation of powerful, yet melodic , guitar riffs and solos, punctuated by the unmistakable sound of the synthesizer. The synth intro, played in unison with the guitar, is one of the most iconic elements of the song, and it continues to be a fan favorite to this day. Combined with the tight rhythm section and Steve Perry’s emotive vocal performance, it’s no wonder this song has stood the test of time.

As for the song’s structure, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” follows a classic verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus format. However, Journey adds their own unique twist with a pre-chorus that builds anticipation for the powerful, sing-along chorus. Additionally, the inclusion of an instrumental break, featuring a blazing guitar solo, showcases the band’s technical prowess and adds further depth to the song.

In conclusion, the technical aspects of “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” contribute significantly to the song’s enduring appeal. From its catchy, anthemic chorus to the masterful musicianship on display, it’s clear that Journey crafted a true classic with this track.

Related Articles

Run-Around the Block: The Enduring Story of Blues Traveler’s Iconic Hit

Run-Around the Block: The Enduring Story of Blues Traveler's Iconic Hit Blues Traveler's Milestone: A Closer Look "Blues Traveler: Celebrating decades of harmonica-fueled rock legacy…

Allentown Uncovered: Diving into Billy Joel’s Musical Time Capsule

Allentown Uncovered: Diving into Billy Joel's Musical Time Capsule Exploring the Depths of the Working Class Struggle with Billy Joel's Anthem Diving into the resilient…

Uptown Girl: The Timeless Classic That Keeps Our Hearts Dancing

Uptown Girl: The Timeless Classic That Keeps Our Hearts Dancing Finding the Uptown Charm in Billy Joel's Extensive Discography Dive into the nostalgic charm of…

Embracing the Inner “Bitch” – A Dive into Meredith Brooks’ Iconic 90s Anthem

Embracing the Inner "Bitch" - A Dive into Meredith Brooks' Iconic 90s Anthem Unraveling the Complexity of Meredith Brooks' Iconic Anthem Diving into Meredith Brooks'…

Diggin’ the 90s Vibes: A Tribute to TLC’s “Diggin’ on You”

Diggin' the 90s Vibes: A Tribute to TLC's "Diggin' on You" Funky Vibes and a Blast from the Past: TLC's Journey through "Diggin' on You"…

Frampton’s Sentimental Serenade: Why “I’m in You” Still Resonates Today

Frampton's Sentimental Serenade: Why "I'm in You" Still Resonates Today Exploring Frampton's Magic in the Late '70s "Diving into Frampton's '70s spellbinding era: the triumphs,…

• Download Shazam

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Music video, shazam footer.

• Help for Apple Devices
• Help for Android Devices
• ShazamKit for Developers
• Privacy Policy
• Manage Your Data

Similar Songs

Top songs by journey, featured in, upcoming concerts for journey.

• Apr 15 Apr 15, 2024 CHI Health Center Omaha View Concert
• Apr 16 Apr 16, 2024 Peoria Civic Center-Arena Peoria View Concert
• Apr 19 Apr 19, 2024 Allen County War Memorial Coliseum Fort Wayne View Concert
• Apr 20 Apr 20, 2024 Charleston Coliseum Charleston View Concert

• ABBREVIATIONS
• BIOGRAPHIES
• CALCULATORS
• CONVERSIONS
• DEFINITIONS

      PDF       Playlist    

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Follow 16 fans

Journey is an American rock band formed in 1973 in San Francisco by former members of Santana and Frumious Bandersnatch. The band has gone through several phases; its strongest commercial success occurred between 1978 and 1987, after which it temporarily disbanded. During that period, the band released a series of hit songs, including 1981's "Don't Stop Believin'", which became in 2009 the top-selling catalog track in iTunes history. Its parent studio album, Escape, the band's eighth and most successful, reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and yielded another of their most popular singles, "Open Arms". Its 1983 follow-up, Frontiers, was almost as successful in the United States, reaching No. 2 and spawning several successful singles; it broadened the band's ap… more »

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days , With Easy Video Lessons!

 watch: new singing lesson videos can make anyone a great singer.

Sheet Music       PDF     Playlist  

Written by: Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain

Lyrics © Wixen Music Publishing, HIPGNOSIS SONGS GROUP

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

Discuss the Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) Lyrics with the community:

Report Comment

We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe. If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.

You need to be logged in to favorite .

Create a new account.

Your name: * Required

Your email address: * Required

Pick a user name: * Required

Username: * Required

Password: * Required

Forgot your password?    Retrieve it

Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

Style: MLA Chicago APA

"Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 13 Apr. 2024. < https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/185480/Journey/Separate+Ways+%28Worlds+Apart%29 >.

Missing lyrics by Journey?

Know any other songs by journey don't keep it to yourself, image credit, the web's largest resource for, music, songs & lyrics, a member of the stands4 network, watch the song video, top hot 100 songs 1983, billboard #8, more tracks from the album.

• #1 Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
• #2 Send Her My Love
• #3 Chain Reaction
• #4 After the Fall
• #5 Faithfully
• #6 Edge of the Blade
• #7 Troubled Child
• #8 Back Talk
• #9 Frontiers
• #10 Rubicon
• #11 Only the Young
• #12 Ask the Lonely
• #13 Liberty
• #14 Only Solutions

Browse Lyrics.com

Our awesome collection of, promoted songs.

Get promoted 

Are you a music master?

The song "delilah" by queen was about freddie mercury's..., free, no signup required :, add to chrome, add to firefox, on radio right now.

Powered by OnRad.io

Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!

Song Meanings and Facts

“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” by Journey 

by George Spencer · Published July 4, 2022 · Updated July 4, 2022

Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is a breakup song, with the title being derived from the vocalist implying the inevitability of he and the addressee going their “separate ways”. That seems to be a foregone conclusion, that this relationship has run its course, even though the verses read like the two of them are still together in a physical sense. But the thesis sentiment is cast into the future, i.e. with Steve envisioning them already being separated and her with another man.

And as far as said sentiment goes, what he is letting the addressee know is that yes, their romance is in fact dead. But that reality is not going to cause him to stop loving her. He appears to imply that their relationship has developed into an intolerably-toxic one. But that understood, he knows that one day, her heart will remember that the feelings they share are genuine. And Steve is confirming that such is indeed the case, that his love for her is “true”. Owing to this, he is also wishing her the best as she goes on her ‘separate way’.

Release Date of “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

This is a song that originally came out on 5 January 1983, through Columbia Records. It was issued as part of Journey’s album titled “Frontiers”. It served as the lead single from that project.

Song’s Achievements

“Separate Ways” performed impressively on its own, topping US  Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks  chart. Furthermore, it also made it onto the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and Cashbox Top 100.

In 2022,  this song recharted , that time around appearing on the Billboard’s  US Rock Digital Song Sales  list. Well actually in said case, it was a remix of “Separate Ways” which charted, one designed specifically  to be utilized  by one of the most-popular television series of the early 2020s, Netflix’s  Stranger Things .

Credits for “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

Journey is a band from San Francisco who were really poppin’ around the time this song came out, i.e. throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s. During the “Frontiers” era, the band was held down by vocalist Steve Perry and the following:

• guitarist Neal Schon
• bassist Ross Valory
• keyboardist Jonathan Cain
• drummer Steve Smith

To note, Schon and Cain are still members of the band at the time of this writing.

The writing of “Separate Ways” is credited to Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain. The track’s producers, on the other hand, are Kevin Elson and the late Mike Stone (1951-2002).

Music Video

The music video to this track was filmed in New Orleans, with its director being Tom Buckholtz. 

This clip was Journey’s first in a manner of speaking, i.e. the initial one from the band not to rely on specifically-made visuals as opposed to past-performance footage. Also keep in mind that this was around the time American artists in general began regularly dropping music videos. 

So the clip has its artistic issues which, in hindsight, may seem unintentionally comical – so much so that  Beavis and Butt-Head  gave it a sound mocking (which significantly offended Jonathan Cain) on a 1993 episode titled  Buff ‘N’ Stuff . 

And speaking of MTV, a few years later, in 1999, they also placed the clip on their  MTV 25 Lame (Worst Music Videos)  ranking. But generally speaking the visual has gone down in infamy, with fans of the band understanding that it harps back to a more-innocent era in music video production.

Related posts:

Journey’s “don’t stop believin’” lyrics meaning, “keep on runnin'” by journey.

• “Send Her My Love” by Journey
• “Who’s Crying Now” by Journey
• “Never Walk Away” by Journey
• “Foolish Heart” by Steve Perry
• “Zoot Suit Riot” by Cherry Poppin’ Daddies
• “Days Go By” by Dirty Vegas
• “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake

3 Responses

• Pingbacks 0

He finds this girl really beautiful and can’t stop thinking about her. They have several encounters. And Feelings seem mutual. Though it is in vain for obvious reasons. Till one day the encounters endand they are forced to go there separate way. Never

He finds this girl beautiful and can’t stop thinking about her. They have many years of pointless encounters. Feelings appear mutual. Their love is in vain though for obvious reasons. Till one day they are forced to go their separate ways. Never to meet again

beautiful song

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name (Optional)

Tags: Jonathan Cain Journey Kevin Elson Mike Stone Ross Valory Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) Steve Perry Steve Smith Tom Buckholtz

You may also like...

August 4, 2019

 by SMF · Published August 4, 2019 · Last modified September 21, 2022

April 12, 2021

 by Amanda London · Published April 12, 2021

January 4, 2022

 by Amanda London · Published January 4, 2022

Song Meanings & Facts

• Terms and Conditions

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

Journey: Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

• Music Video

The official music for "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" performed by Journey. The band performs the song in front of and around a warehouse. A young woman whom the song is addressed to (appare... Read all The official music for "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" performed by Journey. The band performs the song in front of and around a warehouse. A young woman whom the song is addressed to (apparently) is also present, entirely oblivious to the presence of the band. It ends with the wo... Read all The official music for "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" performed by Journey. The band performs the song in front of and around a warehouse. A young woman whom the song is addressed to (apparently) is also present, entirely oblivious to the presence of the band. It ends with the woman asleep in bed with headphones on.

• Tom Buckholtz
• Jonathan Cain
• Margaret Olmstead
• 2 User reviews

• Steve Perry

• Steve Smith

• Ross Valory
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

Did you know

• Connections Featured in MTV's 10th Anniversary Special (1991)

User reviews 2

• injury-65447
• Oct 9, 2020
• February 1983 (United States)
• United States
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 4 minutes

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• IMDb Answers: Help fill gaps in our data
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed

• Entertainment
• Relationships
• Oral History
• Digital Culture
• Policy & Politics
• Physical Health
• Mental Health
• Sexual Health
• Personal Finance
• Style & Beauty
• Tasha Reign

Journey Mastered the Art of Uncool With ‘Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)’

Back in the public consciousness thanks to ‘Stranger Things,’ the earnest 1983 smash (and its cringe-worthy video) hark back to an era when soulless corporate rock ruled the airwaves. So why does it sound better now than it did back then?

When people expound on the legacy of Nirvana , one of the things they’ll invariably mention is that the band helped kill hair-metal , putting an end to a sexist, silly musical style. But that wasn’t the only popular strain of rock music Kurt Cobain was against. There’s a famous origin story of sorts in which a 17-year-old Cobain sells a bunch of his records to afford a ticket to a Black Flag concert, pledging allegiance to punk from there on. (“It was really great,” he’d later enthuse about the show. “I was instantly converted.”) The albums he parted with? Stuff from Foreigner and Journey, the soulless corporate rock that had defined the late 1970s and early 1980s. In one symbolic gesture, Cobain shed that side of his musical personality and adopted a new, cooler one.

Journey have sold millions of records. Their 1988 best-of Greatest Hits is 15-times platinum. Their 1981 bestseller Escape is 10-times platinum. They had six singles hit the Top 10 on the Billboard charts — one of which, “Don’t Stop Believin’,” enjoyed a robust second life after being the soundtrack to the final scene of the final episode of The Sopranos . (The song has been streamed over a billion times on Spotify.) Journey have a new album out now, Freedom , and they’ve already grossed $28 million on tour this year . They have been and are extremely popular. But they have never been cool. 

The band is back in the news as well for being incorporated into the Stranger Things juggernaut , a remix of their 1983 smash “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” featured as part of the new episodes released earlier this month. Those keyboards. That voice. That straining for epic grandeur. It’s like Journey never left.

“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is as good an intro to the Bay Area band as any of their other hits. If The Sopranos ’ needle-drop of “Don’t Stop Believin’” gave a new generation an entry point into Journey’s full-throttled optimism, “Separate Ways” is the gateway drug to the band’s bombastic emotional excess, their mistaken belief that feverish intensity is the same thing as unshakeable romantic devotion. They’re probably not the most earnest rock band of all time — there are plenty of contenders for that title — but their combination of sincerity and emphaticness was emblematic of a rock era ruled by dudes with no chill. No wonder the music video for “Separate Ways” is so spectacularly, awkwardly awful.

That moment in the Separate Ways video when the rest of Journey stopped and thought "Goddamn, he's really going to work on those air keyboards." pic.twitter.com/dIZNLgNFwr — Super 70s Sports (@Super70sSports) March 17, 2021

Journey started up in the early 1970s, guitarist Neal Schon and keyboardist/vocalist Gregg Rolie both previously part of Santana. Their early tunes were jazzy, prog-rock excursions, although their sound changed when they decided to focus on more straightforward songs, recruiting singer Steve Perry to be their new frontman. 

“I found music as a life-sustaining thing when I was about six years old,” Perry once said . “My parents were about to split up, and I discovered Sam Cooke and 45 RPM records. I could turn what was happening around me off and live there. And it saved my life.” Speaking with The New Statesman , he went into more detail about his childhood, saying, “People don’t become performers because they don’t have needs. Singing, though it can be very lovely, is essentially a primal scream. And I was screaming pretty loudly — and quite big. … Things happened to me as a child that I still can’t talk about — nothing to do with my parents, but things did happen. … One of my needs to perform was the need to get myself heard.”

Blessed with an incredible voice — velvety, emotive, the larynx equivalent of a blazing guitar solo — Perry made his debut on Journey’s fourth record, 1978’s Infinity , which included such soon-to-be-staples as “Lights,” a swoon-along tribute to San Francisco that he’d originally written about L.A. before moving up to Northern California to be part of the group. 

Infinity is where Journey started becoming the Journey everyone knows, mastering an AOR sound that was polished and accessible. Hit albums followed, as well as a backlash from those who dismissed them as wimps and sellouts. In a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone , Schon (who’d co-written “Lights” and the later smash “Any Way You Want It” with Perry) groused, “When we started out, the critics said we had no direction. Now, it’s that we’re openly commercial and should go back to what we were. I don’t think we’ve compromised. We’ve just opened our audience by going toward songwriting and vocals. They like to sing along. And we’re gonna continue to try and please as many people as we can, without making it sound like we don’t have a direction.” 

But in that same profile, an executive at Journey’s label acknowledged, “People might say they’re wimpy and boring, but they’re such nice guys. And maybe these days that’s what it takes to sell records, to appeal to the most people possible.” Indeed, this was an era in which rock ‘n’ roll was already becoming big business, ushering in a steady stream of derivative, shiny stadium rock looking to cash in. Technically proficient, vaguely generic acts like Tom Scholz’s virtually-one-man-band Boston were huge. (Right, Boston’s big hit, “More Than a Feeling,” bore a striking similarity to Nirvana’s big hit, “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”) 

In such an environment, Journey thrived, proving to be experts at crafting tunes that sounded great on the radio. They only reached a higher level of slick precision when keyboardist Jonathan Cain joined the group, replacing Rolie. Cain, who’d been part of the opening band on Journey’s recent tour, immediately made his impression felt on 1981’s Escape , co-writing “Who’s Crying Now,” “Open Arms” and “Don’t Stop Believin’,” all of which went Top 10. Encouraging Journey to embrace a more synth-driven sound, which would come to dominate the 1980s, Cain had a simple message for his new bandmates : “I said, ‘I watched you guys 40 nights [on tour]. You just need to speak to [the fans] through your songs, bring their lives into your songs, bring their lives into our songs, sing to their triumphs, sing to their fears, sing to their hearts.’ And that’s what I brought. Something like ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ is a perfect example.” 

Escape was Journey’s first No. 1 record, establishing them as one of the world’s biggest groups. Critics dissed them, the Grammys ignored them, but by the time Journey unveiled their follow-up, Frontiers , they were very much feeling themselves. If you seek proof, look no further than the press conference they gave around Frontiers ’ release. Perry and his bandmates seem especially proud of themselves — and their new video game , which capitalized on that industry’s rising prominence. It’s particularly wild to see them get defensive about their Budweiser sponsorship, a clear indication of how the early 1980s were different from today. Honestly, this three-minute news segment will tell you everything about the tension around “selling out” that was imperiling rock music at the time. 

Frontiers ’ opening track was something Journey had debuted on the road while promoting Escape . “[Perry and I] wanted to write something rhythmic and still have a strong and haunting melody,” Cain would later say . “We needed a main rhythm to run through the synthesizer and [drummer] Steve Smith designed that kind of drum beat to let everything breathe. … Steve has always listened to a lot of Motown records, songs with a strong chorus approach, songs that were really urgent-sounding, but still had rhythm and melody.” 

As often happens with artists who are out touring a lot, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” came about because Journey realized they needed a song like that in their repertoire. “We took Escape on the road and we knew we needed more teeth. … Like, what would make our set undeniably great?” Cain said in 2018 . “And we tried to fill in what we were missing musically. … I remember writing ‘Separate Ways’ with Steve on the road. We wrote that in a hotel room — [bassist] Ross [Valory] was going through a divorce — and, boom, out comes ‘Separate Ways.’”

Kicking off with Cain’s space-age keyboard riff before Schon’s heavy guitar lick takes over, “Separate Ways” is the kind of brokenhearted ballad that was a Motown speciality. In the song, the narrator is crestfallen because he and his lady have gone their separate ways, a scenario that leaves him anxious and unhappy. Even worse, she’s apparently with another guy now. But our narrator isn’t giving up on their love. “Separate Ways” is what “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” would have been like if everybody involved decided to be way more bombastic. (The song’s pump-it-up sonic pyrotechnics would qualify it to be suitable theme music before the introduction of an NBA team .) Never one for subtlety, Perry belted out his anguish, making one final, desperate plea to his beloved:

Someday love will find you  Break those chains that bind you  One night will remind you  How we touched and went our separate ways  If he ever hurts you  True love won’t desert you  You know I still love you  Though we touched and went our separate ways

“Separate Ways” was Journey’s fourth song to crack the Top 10 in two years, helped by its ubiquity on MTV, which was then still just a fledgling cable channel. It’s funny how MTV has been blamed for elevating photogenic pop stars — supposedly making the industry more superficial and image-conscious in the process — because the truth was, there were plenty of regular-looking dudes enjoying huge success at the time, too. Like Journey.

In I Want My MTV: The Uncensored History of the Music Video Revolution , Cain recalled, “Steve Perry was very anti-video. He’d always say, ‘We’re performers, we’re entertainers, but we’re not actors.’ And we were not a very photogenic band. So we stayed on the sidelines at first.” But Frontiers saw Journey try their hand at this new medium, leading to the deeply dorky video for “Separate Ways.” 

“This was the very beginning of MTV. Nobody was making $200,000 videos or $500,000 videos or $3 million videos,” Schon said this week . “Some people were paying a million and a half for a music video because they had a movie producer backing them financially. What a freakin’ rip-off. I mean, that’s what it became. But back when we did this, our manager came to us and said, ‘Look, we need to get a music video. Who should we use?’ I suggested the director Wayne Isham . He came in and put together the storyboard. It was going to be in New Orleans, on a pier. Is it terrible? The air guitar and keyboards are cheesy as hell. I give it a 10 on the cringe scale. It’s so silly, man. Journey was not a band that did well with videos that had story lines.”

“I’m at a loss to explain that video,” Cain lamented in I Want My MTV . “Good Lord, I will never live down those air keyboards. No matter what else I’ve done in my career, sooner or later people find a way to ask me about the ‘Separate Ways’ video. And Perry, I don’t know what he was thinking, but he cut his hair right before the video. Bad idea. His hair was rocking before the shoot.” 

In the clip, filmed on the wharf in New Orleans near the French Quarter by local director Tom Buckholtz , the quintet sometimes play their instruments, but other times they are just miming, leading to a lot of white-man’s overbite and unconvincing air-rocking. Meanwhile, a young woman, Margaret Oldsted Menendez, wanders around, almost as if she’s unaware of the guys. “I was a college student at Tulane University in uptown New Orleans,” she recalled in 2013 . “I double majored in biology and environmental studies. I was working and paying my way through college so the [notion] of making money for shooting a video was a godsend. It paid $250 a day and I was paid for three days of work. That was a lot of money at the time for a student like me. … It wasn’t until many years later that I learned of [Perry’s] girlfriend being upset that a girl was in a Journey video.” 

“His girlfriend, Sherrie, was not down with it,” Cain told The Huffington Post in 2012 . “And there was this whole thing about, ‘You’re going to have a slut in your video?’” This was Sherrie Swafford, who Perry was dating and who would later be the subject of his 1984 solo hit “Oh Sherrie.” “Sherrie was jealous and possessive,” Cain says in I Want My MTV . “And when she found out there was gonna be a girl in the video — oh my god. There was a big kicking and screaming session.”

Even if the video was an embarrassment, Frontiers was another huge seller for the band, setting the stage for subsequent hit singles like the Cain-penned slow-dance standard “Faithfully.” (Fun fact: After Prince came up with “Purple Rain,” he called Cain, scared that his song was too close to “Faithfully.” “I thought it was an amazing tune,” Cain said in 2016 , “and I told him, ‘Man, I’m just super-flattered that you even called. It shows you’re that classy of a guy. Good luck with the song. I know it’s gonna be a hit.’” Cain was less thrilled with the “Faithfully” video, admitting in I Want My MTV , “The live stuff looks great. But the shot of Steve shaving off his mustache was a bit much. I mean, did people even know he had a mustache? I didn’t get that.”) 

In 1984, Perry recorded a solo record, Streek Talk , and then Journey reconvened for Raised on Radio , but by that point the group was fracturing. Journey got back together for a comeback album a decade later, Trial by Fire , but then that was it for Perry. “I was wrung out like a sponge,” he said about his decision to quit the band . “There was just no juice in my heart for music, and it really scared the hell out of me. But I knew intuitively that if I kept doing what I was doing, I’d have a hole in my soul that would get bigger and bigger. And I’d fill it with bad behaviors, if you know what I mean. So I had to stop.”

Journey soldiered on without him, releasing five albums this century, including the new Freedom . Schon, who has remained with the group, was asked recently if he talks to Perry anymore. “We are in contact,” he said . “It’s not about him coming out with us, but we’re speaking on different levels. That’s a start, even if it’s all business. And I’m not having to go through his attorney! We’ve been texting and emailing. He’s a real private guy, and he wants to keep it that way. We’re in a good place.”

As with a lot of legacy bands, there were lawsuits between members . When the band got voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Perry appeared on stage during their 2017 induction ceremony and graciously addressed the crowd, although he chose not to perform with his old group. (In fact, until he showed up to sing a few songs with his friend Mark Oliver Everett, aka E of the band Eels, at a concert in 2014 , he hadn’t performed live in 19 years.) Later, Perry explained that he didn’t sing with his former bandmates during the Rock Hall ceremony out of deference to their current frontman, Arnel Pineda. “I haven’t been in the band for quite some time,” Perry said . “Arnel’s been in the band for almost 10 years, I think. He’s a sweet kid — he’s a wonderful kid. He sings his heart out every night. It’s his gig.”

Time has a way of healing old wounds — or, at the very least, blunting the vitriol once directed at certain cheesy corporate-rock bands. It’s now been 15 years since The Sopranos ’ finale lent Journey zeitgeist-y cool, conferring on “Don’t Stop Believin’” a patina of hipness it never had during its initial lifespan. Perry had been the final holdout of the song’s three writers, not giving the show permission to use the track until the Thursday before the episode’s airing that Sunday, insisting that David Chase tell him how it would be integrated into the plot before he’d give his blessing. (“What I didn’t want to see was the family getting whacked,” Perry later explained . “ Scorsese would do that. He would play something beautiful while people were getting gunned down. So I held out.”) 

The suspense wasn’t as great for the Stranger Things producers, who first unveiled their remix of “Separate Ways” in an April trailer promoting the new season. “The lyrics are about people going their separate ways and the characters, at the end of the third season, did all go their separate ways,” Bobby Gumm, head of the trailer company who put together the clip, told Forbes . Perry got involved early on: Bryce Miller, who helped craft the remix, said in the same Forbes piece, “He had some specific mixing notes. He wanted the vocals to be brought out a little bit more in some places and just a refinement of some [other] details. It was really cool to work with him and he had some really nice things to say.”

In the 1990s, as Nirvana and alternative rock were cresting, an over-the-hill band like Journey were the epitome of toothless, boring rock — an easy thing to mock, never more savagely than on an episode of Beavis and Butt-Head , in which the boys take one bewildered look at “Separate Ways,” prompting Butt-Head to wonder if they’re watching the Partridge Family. Adding insult to injury, he then confuses Steve Perry with Barry Manilow . (Cain later admitted in I Want My MTV that he was so mad at the public skewering “I called our manager and said, ‘Isn’t there anything we can do to stop this?’”)

But whether in The Sopranos or Stranger Things , it turns out that Journey’s hyperbolic, achingly earnest music is uniquely excellent as background color in dramatic scenes. As a song, “Separate Ways” is so overblown as to elicit secondhand discomfort from anyone listening to it. (Look, Steve, getting dumped is a terrible feeling, but take it down a notch .) But as a supplemental emotional texture within a TV show or movie, it feels appropriately sized, a fitting complement to the overarching narrative stakes. Journey songs always felt like they should be the soundtrack to Rocky montages — at last, they sorta are.

At the start of the pandemic , everybody was trying to find ways to battle boredom and stave off anxiety. Some baked bread. Some got into quilting. The Heller family decided to do a shot-for-shot remake of the “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” video. “It was all my wife’s idea,” husband Steven Heller said , later adding, “She likes Journey, first of all. And after watching a number of music videos, it was like, ‘We could recreate this video with our kids around the house.’”

The Hellers’ version is the sort of wholesome distraction that a lot of people really needed during that unnerving time. I can see why people found it adorable. But viewed now, it’s incredibly dorky — there’s nothing cool or hip about it at all. In other words, it couldn’t be more perfectly Journey, the band that always cared way too deeply and always, always wore their heart on their sleeve.

“Everything I write comes back to high school,” Steve Perry said in 2018 . “I know it sounds funny, but everything. It all comes from the emotions I grew into during my adolescence. Those moments are not to be tossed away.” For a lot of us, those old memories also often contain a fair share of embarrassment, whether it’s the residual shame associated with long-ago breakups or the naive, giddy euphoria attached to good times that are now ancient history. Journey just wanted you to hold onto them a little longer, no matter how uncool it seemed.

Tim Grierson

Tim Grierson is a contributing editor at MEL. He writes about film and pop culture for Screen International, Rolling Stone and Vulture.

Recommended Reading

• Music: ‘I Can’t Make You Love Me’ Doesn’t Care If You Cry
• Culture: ‘I’m Overdue for a Discussion About My Role in Inspiring ‘Edgelord’ Shit’: A Conversation with Steve Albini
• Music: How Chumbawamba Tricked Everyone into Thinking ‘Tubthumping’ Was a Pop Song
• Music: Why White People Love Watching Black People React to Classic Rock

• Manage Account

Journey ‘Separate Ways’ Remix Featured on ‘Stranger Things’ Season 4 Soundtrack

Bryce Miller and Alloy Tracks' remixes of Journey's "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" are featured in the season 4 soundtrack.

By Rania Aniftos

Rania Aniftos

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on Twitter
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Pinit
• + additional share options added
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on Linkedin
• Share this article on Whatsapp
• Share this article on Email
• Print this article
• Share this article on Comment
• Share this article on Tumblr

The music featured in season four of Stranger Things has become just as hyped as the series itself, as shown in the popularity surge of Kate Bush ‘s 1985 track, “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God).”

The popular Netflix series unveiled its full soundtrack upon the season’s completion, and the set includes Bryce Miller and Alloy Tracks’ remixes of Journey ‘s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” featured in the fourth season. The updated version of the 1983 song features the band’s longtime singer Steve Perry.

Mumford & Sons, Pharrell Williams Send 'Good People' to No. 1 on Adult Alternative Airplay Chart

See latest videos, charts and news

“One of the wonders of  Stranger Things  is that it has a way of connecting each of the songs to its multigenerational audience around the world in very unique ways,” the show’s longtime music supervisor Nora Felder previously told  Billboard . “That reflects the power of a meaningful, timeless song — and how its significance can be revived and reconceived when it is married to a remarkable story such as  Stranger Things .”

Listen to the “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” remix and see the  Stranger Things season 4 soundtrack full track list below.

Trending on Billboard

• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” (Bryce Miller/Alloy Tracks Remix) – Journey with Steve Perry
• “California Dreamin’” – The Beach Boys
• “Psycho Killer” – Talking Heads
• “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” – Kate Bush
• “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” – Dead or Alive
• “Chica Mejicanita” – Mae Arnette
• “Play With Me” – Extreme
• “Detroit Rock City (Single Version)” – KISS
• “I Was a Teenage Werewolf” – The Cramps
• “Pass the Dutchie” – Musical Youth
• “Wipe Out” – The Surfaris
• “Object of My Desire (Single Version)” – Starpoint
• “Rock Me Amadeus (The Gold Mix)” – Falco
• “Travelin’ Man” – Ricky Nelson
• “Tarzan Boy” – Baltimora
• “Dream a Little Dream of Me” – Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong
• “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” (Single Version) – Rick Derringer
• “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor
• “Spellbound” – Siouxsie and the Banshees
• “Master of Puppets” – Metallica
• “When It’s Cold I’d Like To Die (featuring Mimi Goese)” – Moby
• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” (Steve Perry & Bryce Miller Extended Remix) – Journey with Steve Perry  

Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox

Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about?

Get in the know on.

Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Billboard Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

optional screen reader

Charts expand charts menu.

• Billboard Hot 100™
• Billboard 200™
• Hits Of The World™
• TikTok Billboard Top 50
• Song Breaker
• Year-End Charts
• Decade-End Charts

Music Expand music menu

• R&B/Hip-Hop

Culture Expand culture menu

Media expand media menu, business expand business menu.

• Business News
• Record Labels
• View All Pro

Pro Tools Expand pro-tools menu

• Songwriters & Producers
• Artist Index
• Royalty Calculator
• Market Watch
• Industry Events Calendar

Billboard Español Expand billboard-espanol menu

• Cultura y Entretenimiento

Honda Music Expand honda-music menu

Inspired by ‘Stranger Things,’ Daughtry and Lzzy Hale Team for Cover of Journey‘s ‘Separate Ways’

By Michele Amabile Angermiller

Michele Amabile Angermiller

• Bruce Springsteen Flies Cross-Country to Join Zach Bryan Onstage in Brooklyn 2 weeks ago
• Season 2 of ‘The Allison Hagendorf Show’ Launches Thursday 1 month ago
• Bruce Springsteen, Noah Kahan to Headline New Jersey’s Sea.Hear.Now Festival 1 month ago

Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” from the 1983 album “Frontiers,” arrived 40 years ago and went on to peak at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. To commemorate its release, rock artists Daughtry and Lzzy Hale of Halestorm have teamed up for tribute single, which Chris Daughtry tells Variety was inspired by the show “Stranger Things.”

“We wanted to do a classic cover and we had kicked around the idea of doing something that had this ’80s vibe,” he says. “There were a couple of songs we had in the mix.”

Popular on Variety

Daughtry had another idea: to turn the song into a duet. He immediately thought of Hale. “Lzzy and I had been talking for years about working on a song together, whether it be an original or a cover,” he says of his past tourmate. “We’ve done stuff live before, but never recorded anything. I texted her about doing ‘Separate Ways’ and she was, like, ‘That’s my go-to karaoke song! I’m all in.”

Producers Marti Frederiksen and Scott Stevens recorded the two in Nashville. Sys Daughtry: “Everybody was in their own spaces doing their parts. It was such a fun experience just watching Lzzy work. She’s such a pro and an incredible vocalist. There’s a few singers that make me jealous of what they’re able to do with their voice, and she’s one of them.”

An added bonus: Frederiksen’s studio had a kick drum head with the Journey logo on display. “I’m looking at that drumhead, like, this wasn’t even planted here,” was it?” says Daughtry. “It showed that it was meant to be — just a little happy accident.”

Added Hale: “Chris Daughtry and I have been threatening to unleash a duet for years. What better way to do that than by paying tribute to one of our mutual influences…. Journey!”

Daughtry is set to tour starting in March.

Listen to the song below:

More From Our Brands

Lana del rey cements herself as a cult icon at coachella, kanye west is now facing an $18 million loss on his tadao ando-designed malibu house, arizona coyotes are no more, will move to salt lake city, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, fire country poll: would you watch a sheriff fox spinoff, verify it's you, please log in.

• The Popularity of Chess King
• What Happened During the Video Game Crash of 1983?
• Has Anyone Ever Beat Pac-Man?
• 11 Best 1980s Christmas Movies
• 18 One-Hit Wonders from the 80s

8 Movies and Shows That Played Journey’s Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) Song

Let’s face it, Journey was one of the most prominent bands of the 80s that they top almost all of today’s hit playlist, the biggest one being Don’t Stop Believing (1981).

But as for one of our personal favorites, Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), it peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and spent four weeks as the first on the Top Tracks chart.

8 Movies and TV Shows that Played Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

As for the movies that played Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), there were a ton. The reason for this is simply because it’s a powerful song that draws a lot of emotion. It’s also very catchy! So here they are. Enjoy!

1. The Simpsons

During season 16, episode 2, All’s Fair in Oven War, Homer had the family’s kitchen remodeled for Marge. She added some dishes to it, which got great reviews, and she was invited by Ned Flanders to enter the Ovenfresh Bakeoff. Although she quickly realized the competition was a lot harder than it looked.

The Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) song played in Homer’s car as a cultural reference before he asked himself to turn it down. The episode won great reviews from numerous critics.

2. The 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Recorded live on April 7th, 2017 in Cleveland, OH, The 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony honored six new inductees, including ELO, Joan Baez, Journey, Pearl Jam, Tupac Shakur and Yes. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) was played by Journey.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was established in 1983 in Cleveland, OH and is dedicated to recording the history of some of the best known and most influential bands, produced and musicians as well as other that have in some way greatly influenced the rock and roll industry.

3. TRON: Legacy (2010)

This song was awesome enough to be the opener of Tron: Legacy (2010) as Sam Flynn entered his father’s abandoned arcade. Pretty good opening song for a tech movie we might add. It also played in the background when Daft Punk entered Flynn’s Arcade in a similar manner at the beginning of the official music video “Derezzed.”

4. Yes Man (2008)

The song is best known in Yes Man for playing after Carl (Jim Carrey) escapes from the hospital in a white hospital gown on his nurse friend’s crotch rocket to confess his love for Allison (Zooey Deschanel). The song was meant to symbolize his transition from a No Man to a Yes Man. Fun fact: the song also plays on Carl’s ringtone, mostly when his friends were calling him to hang out (whom he neglected at the beginning of the movie).

5. Cold Case (2004)

In episode 20 of season 1, Greed , the team reopened a 1980’s case of a wealthy corporate stockbroker who set up a Ponzi scheme, which left many of its colleagues broke when it crashed. He was then murdered in an apparent carjacking. The song played when the four friends had to go their separate ways in 1980.

6. The O. C. (2004)

The O.C. TV series is about the troubled but close-knit young group of people living in the wealthy, upper-class neighborhood of Newport Beach, Orange County, CA. In In episode 21 of season 1, The Goodbye Girl , Anna was leaving, Theresa was staying and Seth thought he was the reason why Anna was planning on returning to Pittsburgh.

Ryan also knows he’s why Theresa was staying, but there wasn’t much either of them could do. Caleb was the Rivera’s Man of the Year.

The Separate Song (Worlds Apart) played in the while the two friends were in the car driving down the highway. One of them apparently didn’t like the song while the other almost yelled at him, “Do not insult Journey”.

7. Mystery Science Theater 3000

Abbreviated as MST3K , this cult comedy television series is about experimenting on the human mind when Joel Robinson (Joel Hodgson) was shot into space and forced to watch bad movies. Meanwhile, mad scientist Dr. Clayton Forrester (Trace Beaulieau) and his crony Frank (Frank Conniff) monitor his mind as they encounter various adventures. In episode 20 of season 9, Space Mutiny , Mike and the robots learned the 80s were worse than they thought as they endured the sci-fi movie Space Mutiny (1988).

8. Beavis and Butthead (1993)

In this animated MTV series about two teenage heavy-metal fans who did idiotic things because they’re bored, they thought everything was either “cool” or “sucks”. In episode 16 of season 3, Buff ’N’ Stuff, the pair were so thin they were forced to stay after gym for a personal workout with Coach Buzzcut.

While watching the music video, Beavis and Butthead were commenting on the music video, saying it was “horrible” and “this guy (Steve Perry) sucks”.

About Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

The song was first written and composed in 1982 during the Escape tour. Just after two weeks of writing the song, they included it in their concerts, including Day on the Green and another at Chicago’s Rosemont Horizon. Both Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry had worked on the song backstage where Steve was working on the bass and he on the guitar, putting together the melody that night and the lyrics the following day. Here’s what Cain commented about the song:

“We wanted to write something rhythmic and still have a strong and haunting melody. We needed a main rhythm to run through the synthesizer and Steve Smith designed that kind of drum beat to let everything breathe. It’s really a throwback to all of our roots and the Motown sound. Steve [Perry] has always listened to a lot of Motown records, songs with a strong chorus approach. Songs that were real urgent sounding, but still had rhythm and melody.”

The Music Video

If you love Journey, you probably love the song and well, hate the music video. We agree they did a pretty poor job as a result of many controversies before its release. Steve Perry , the lead singer and writer of Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) really did not want a choreographed video, saying “We’re performers, we’re entertainers, but we’re not actors…and we were not a very photogenic band.”

Nevertheless, the video has millions of views and thousands of likes, so their overall popularity did make up for a poorly made video.

What Do You Think?

We’d love to hear what you think about the song and the music video! Please let us know in the comments below.

• Popular Brands and Styles of the 80s
• 21 Crazy Things About Poltergeist

You May Also Like

15 Strange 80s Music Videos on MTV

What is the Meaning of Prince’s Song, “When Doves Cry”?

How Did Van Halen Break Up?

4 thoughts on “ 8 movies and shows that played journey’s separate ways (worlds apart) song ”.

Steve Perry has such an amazing voice; he is truly gifted. No matter the song or the video, he consistently gave it his all, and the emotion and passion always shown through. So yes, love the song and the video to Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)!

Todo lo que canta Steve Perry tiene magia,su voz es angelical.

This song epitomises what makes 80’s power ballads so good. Perry’s voice complements the songs message and the urgency of the choruses resolution perfectly. I don’t remember Journey much (in Australia) but having picked up on them about 20 years ago, something from them is on every playlist I’ve made. Rock on!

I may be in a very small minority when I say I love the video! In fact I love it so much that when I visited San Francisco in 2001, I visited the pier they shot it on and listened to it on headphones whilst possibly playing air keyboards!

I do concede that some of it does make me cringe though, especially when they sing towards the woman model and to camera. I can imagine how embarrassing that would have been, especially having to do it over and over to get a good take.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Attachments The maximum upload file size: 260 MB. You can upload: image . Links to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and other services inserted in the comment text will be automatically embedded. Drop files here

What Led to Golden Bachelor's Gerry Turner, Theresa Nist Split

Originally appeared on E! Online

Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist 's journey to find love isn't over after all .

That's because the Golden Bachelor stars , who tied the knot in a televised January ceremony , are getting divorced after three months of marriage.

"Theresa and I have had a number of heart-to-heart conversations," Gerry told ABC's Juju Chang on Good Morning America April 12, "and we've looked closely at our situation, our living situation, so forth and we've kind of come to the conclusion mutually that it's probably time for us to dissolve our marriage."

And although Gerry—who lives in Indiana—and Theresa—who resides in New Jersey—were committed to making their relationship work, it was their living situation that ultimately led to their split.

"The thing that strikes me the most in our conversations, it's been how dedicated both of us are to our families," Gerry, ABC's first-ever Golden Bachelor, explained. "So we look at these situations and I think we just feel like it's best for the happiness of each of us to, to live apart."

2024 Celebrity Breakups

As Theresa—who accepted a proposal from Gerry during November's Golden Bachelor finale—noted, "We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at homes after home, but we never got to the point where we made that decision."

Despite their breakup, Gerry, 72, and Theresa, 70, don't want Bachelor Nation fans to give up on their search for a life partner.

"We have received so much love and support from so many people who watched The Golden Bachelor ," Theresa said, "and I don't think we can tell you how many people told us that it gave them so much hope. We want none of that to change for anybody."

As Gerry and Theresa go their separate ways, keep reading to check the status of more Bachelor Nation couples...

• the bachelor

'Golden Bachelor' split! What went wrong?

Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist announce they are dissolving their marriage after just three months

LOS ANGELES -- Bachelor Nation is still trying to recover from the bombshell news that "Golden Bachelor" couple Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist are divorcing after only about 3 months of marriage.

The couple told ABC's Juju Chang "We've had a number of heart-to-heart conversations and we've looked carefully at our situation, our living situation and so forth, and we've kind of come to the conclusion mutually that it's probably time for us to dissolve our marriage."

They insisted they're still in love, and to drive that point home, they held hands throughout their Good Morning America interview.

So, what went wrong? Theresa and Gerry told Juju that they are both dedicated to their grown children and grandchildren and they felt it was best to live apart.

Having those important conversations with a potential partner was important to Gerry from the very beginning.

On The Red Carpet spoke to Gerry several times over the course of his "Golden Bachelor" journey including just before he left for hometown dates.

"I can't say I've found the one, but I've found the few. And with the help of hometowns and seeing the lifestyles and seeing all the women that I'm down to in a more relaxed setting, I think that's going to help me make good decisions," Gerry said.

"One of the first things I looked for was a sense of humor, the woman's ability to laugh at herself, even to laugh at me," Gerry revealed at the show's premiere event in September. "I was looking for the person that would be a full-fledged 50-50 partner with me, not someone that would walk a step behind and make me take the lead all the time."

Theresa seemed to be just that. She was able to calm Gerry's nerves after a harrowing drive to their one-on-one date at a diner, where they bonded over the losses of their spouses and they encouraged viewers to not stop believing in love. Viewers saw that bond grow through the season.

At the "Women Tell All" taping, Gerry revealed what was ahead on overnight dates and why they were so important to him. And it's not the NSFW reason!

"I will tell you, the overnights were a watershed moment for me. When you're off camera and you don't have microphones listening, and you can have those discussions that you can't have in front of other people, it's much easier to learn about someone and make decisions."

Was their living arrangement - and how they'd handle being near their respective families - something Gerry and Theresa spoke about on their overnight date?

It seemed both Gerry and Theresa were all in during the finale in November. Theresa told Gerry, "The best is yet to come," and as he got down on one knee, Gerry proclaimed, "You're the person I can't live without."

The two announced on "After The Final Rose" that they were getting married January 4.

"This show has touched so many lives and we feel that we've really made a difference in people's lives and we want to bring them along for this ride," Theresa told On The Red Carpet when we checked in with them in December.

More than seven million viewers watched as Theresa and Gerry exchanged their vows in a ceremony officiated by former contestant Susan Noles.

Theresa and Gerry seemed like the picture of wedded bliss at the "After The Final Rose" live show for "The Bachelor's" latest lead, Joey Graziadei.

And just last week, at an event for Hulu on Disney+, Theresa updated On The Red Carpet on married life.

"Wonderful! We're just so happy. We're with our families, we just came from filming something together."

That something is "Celebrity Family Feud." No word yet on when, or if, that episode will air.

And as we digest the news of their split, Gerry and Theresa want people to know that the love is not gone.

"There's no doubt in my mind. I still am in love with her, I root for her every day," Gerry said to Juju Chang.

Theresa also said she doesn't want people to be discouraged by this news.

"I don't think we can tell you how many people told us that it gave them so much hope. We want none of that to change for anybody."

For more on the split, check out the latest podcast episode of "Playing The Field."

Related Topics

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
• THE BACHELOR
• ON THE RED CARPET

The Bachelor

'Golden Bachelor' couple Gerry and Theresa getting divorced

'DWTS'' Gleb Savchenko on 'Bachelor' rumors and dream dance partner

'9-1-1' meets 'The Bachelor,' in a primetime crossover event

Newly engaged Joey and Kelsey talk about their future

Top stories.

3 dead, 3 injured in separate Philadelphia shootings

AccuWeather: Windy & Cooler

Man accused of posing as nurse allegedly assaulted 12 other women

Phillies debut new 'City Connect' uniforms | Here's what fans think

Neglected mother found 'fused' to sheets inside Delco home has died

Trooper facing prison time after guilty plea in assault on teen

Allen Iverson sculpture unveiled on '76ers Legends Walk'

SEPTA says serious crime down over last year