About The Song

“Don’t Stop Believin'” is a mid-tempo rock anthem and power ballad by Journey, known for its distinctive piano riff. Released in 1981 on the album “Escape,” the song became one of Journey’s most successful and recognizable tracks. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain, in his memoir, recounts the song’s genesis in the 1970s when he moved from Chicago to Los Angeles, aspiring to make a breakthrough in the music industry. The song’s meaning and enduring popularity have led to its resurgence in various contexts, from Mafia finales to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s appearances. Jonathan Cain reveals that the lyrics originated from a conversation between a musician and a parent, emphasizing the theme of perseverance and hope. “Don’t Stop Believin'” remains a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its timeless message and musical brilliance.

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Lyrics

Just a small-town girl
Livin’ in a lonely world
She took the midnight train goin’ anywhere

Just a city boy
Born and raised in South Detroit
He took the midnight train goin’ anywhere

A singer in a smokey room
The smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on, and on, and on

Strangers waiting
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night

Streetlights people
Livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night

Workin’ hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin’ anything to roll the dice just one more time

Some will win, some will lose
Some were born to sing the blues
Oh, the movie never ends
It goes on and on, and on, and on

Strangers waiting
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night

Streetlights people
Livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night

Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlight people

Don’t stop believin’
Hold on
Streetlight people

Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlight people