Journey drummer Steve Smith says he thinks Steve Perry's refusal to sing at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, and his acknowledgment of Arnel Pineda in his acceptance speech, represented a ceremonial changing of the guard for the band.
Smith says the emotions displayed on the stage during the ceremony were authentic and there's no ill-will between the band's current lineup and its longtime frontman Perry.
"It was great to see him," Smith said in an interview with Las Vegas Weekly. "He was very gracious. I thought he gave a beautiful speech, thanking the band, the management and the fans. And also he acknowledged Arnel, which was really a beautiful moment. It really makes it clear that he’s passing the torch to Arnel. He’s the lead singer in Journey and he’s doing an amazing job. He’s a tremendous singer and a really compelling frontman.”
Pineda joined Journey in 2007 after fronting a tribute band for many years. He and Perry met for the first time backstage at the Hall of Fame festivities.
Smith also made clear that Perry was indeed asked to sing with Journey.
“There’s really not much of a story there. We asked him if he wanted to sing, and he declined – he said no, but that he would be there.”
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction was the first time in 12 years the reclusive Perry joined his former band at an event.
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