Journey Wedding Songs: The Ultimate Anthems for Your Big Day
Journey isn’t just a band; they are the architects of the modern wedding anthem. Since forming in 1973, they have produced a catalog of songs that are as grand as the emotions of a wedding day. From the soaring vocals of Steve Perry to the legendary guitar work of Neal Schon, Journey provides the perfect mix of tender power ballads and high-energy floor-fillers. Whether you’re a “small town girl” or a “city boy,” these 11 tracks are essential for any classic rock-loving couple.
Essential Journey Wedding Moments
- The Universal Reception Anthem: “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Released in 1981, this isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. As noted in my blog, it serves as an anthem to get things going at sports arenas and wedding receptions alike. It’s the ultimate “unity” song to play when you want every guest on the dance floor singing at the top of their lungs.
- The Power Ballad Vow: “Faithfully.” This 1983 track is a masterclass in devotion. As I highlighted in my 1980s book, its lyrics about being “forever yours” make it one of the most requested first-dance songs of all time. It’s a powerful statement of commitment for any couple.
- The Smooth First Dance: “Open Arms.” Reaching #2 on the Billboard charts in 1982, this is one of the definitive power ballads of the decade. Its tender piano intro and soaring chorus make it a romantic choice for a spotlight dance.
- The 90s Comeback: “When You Love a Woman.” For couples who want a Journey vibe with a slightly more modern production, this 1996 hit is perfect. It reached #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and captures that “joy that lasts forever”.
Expert DJ Tips for a Journey Set
- The “Don’t Stop Believin’” Timing: Save this for the final 30 minutes of the night. It is the ultimate “peak” song that brings the entire room together. It’s also a great way to transition from a classic rock set into a modern pop set.
- The “Sherrie” Connection: While not a Journey song, Steve Perry’s “Oh Sherrie” is often requested alongside Journey tracks. If you have a bride named Sherrie (or similar), it’s a “must-play” dedication.
- The “1970s Roots” Reset: Don’t forget Journey’s late-70s hits like “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’.” As noted in my 1970s book, the late 70s were a time of “rock evolution.” Use these bluesier tracks during dinner or the early dance set to appeal to the classic rock purists in the crowd.
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Journey Highest-Charting Billboard Hits
- #2 Open Arms, 1982
- #4 Who’s Crying Now, 1981
- #8 Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), 1983
- #9 Don’t Stop Believin’, 1981
- #9 Only the Young, 1985
- #9 Be Good to Yourself, 1986
- #12 Faithfully, 1983
- #12 When You Love a Woman, 1996
- #14 I’ll Be Alright Without You, 1987
- #16 Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’, 1979
- #17 Suzanne, 1986
- #17 Girl Can’t Help It, 1986
- #19 Still They Ride, 1982
Wedding Songs List
Don’t Stop Believin’
Released in 1981 on the album Escape
This song is an anthem to get things going. Whether it is played at sports arenas, political speeches, or even at wedding receptions, the song will live on forever. Who can argue with more than 30 million views on YouTube?
Streetlights, people
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Faithfully
Released in 1983 on the album Frontiers
This a power love ballad to many married couples from the Eighties and beyond.
And lovin’ a music man
Ain’t always what it’s supposed to be
Oh girl you stand by me
I’m forever yours, faithfully
Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
Released in 1983 on the album Frontiers
This is a great breakup song. It is a bit gritty but full of emotion.
True love won’t desert you
You know I still love you
Though we touched and went our separate ways
Open Arms
Released in 1982 on the album Escape
Another power ballad by Journey was released in the 80s.
So here I am, with open arms
Hoping you’ll see what your love means to me
Open arms
Any Way You Want It
Released in 1980 on the album Departure
Even though Journey gave the OK to play the song on TV commercials, we still love this anthem song too much.
She said, any way you want it
That’s the way you need it
Any way you want it
Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’
Released in 1979 on the album Evolution
He’s tearing you apart
Oh, girl, what can you say?
Cause he’s loving, touching another
Wheel In The Sky
Released in 1978 on the album Infinity
Oh the wheel in the sky keeps on turnin’
I don’t’ know where I’ll be tomorrow
Lights
Released in 1978 on the album Infinity
A song about the city they are from – San Francisco.
When the lights go down in the city
And the sun shines on the bay
Ooh, I want to be there in my city
When You Love A Woman
Released in 1996 on the album Trial By Fire
When you love a woman
You see your world inside her eyes
When you love a woman
(Well) You know she’s standing by your side
A joy that lasts forever
Who’s Crying Now
Released in 1981 on the album Escape
Two hearts, born to run
Who’ll be the lonely one?
I wonder who’s crying now?
Journey Songs – Fan Favorites
Send Her My Love
Released in 1983 on the album Frontiers
Send her my love
Memories remain
Send her my love
Roses never fade
Journey Spotify Playlist
Have a favorite Journey song, not on our list? Please share it below so that we can add it!
