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"Faithfully" lyrics

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Faithfully by Journey

• Highway run Into the midnight sun Wheels go 'round and 'round You're on my mind Restless hearts Sleep alone tonight Sendin' all my love Along the wire They say that the road Ain't no place to start a family Right down the line It's been you and me 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 Circus life Under the big top world We all need the clowns To make us smile Through space and time Always another show Wondering where I am Lost without you And being apart ain't easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy of rediscovering you Oh girl, you stand by me I'm forever yours, faithfully Whoa-oh, oh-oh Whoa-oh, oh-oh, oh Whoa-oh, oh-oh, oh-oh Faithfully I'm still yours I'm forever yours Forever yours Faithfully Writer/s: Jonathan Cain Publisher: Hipgnosis Songs Group Lyrics licensed and provided by LyricFind
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Comments: 39

• Luna Loud from Royal Woods, Michigan You know, dudes, it's too bad this band's videos suck because their songs are so effin' amazing. And I'm with you 'Raf from Clovis, Ca; this song gets me in the feels every time.
• Chase Tart from North Carolina I’m 14 and this has to be my favorite song, which testifies to this song being so timeless. Not many musicians would credit God with the gift to write songs, so major props to Jonathan.
• Anonymous from Nacogdoches Texas I get the joy of rediscovering you...
• A-bomb from Duluth, Ga Usa And being apart ain't easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy Of rediscovering you Oh girl, you stand by me I'm forever yours, faithfully
• Rafael Burgos from Clovis, Ca This song makes me cry.
• Stuartdevoy from Cornwall, United Kingdom I was always ridiculed at school for liking Journey, not that any of the kids had ever heard there stuff, I'm English) I guess they weren't hip enough. then glee sing there songs and everybody's saying how good they are, all those years they missed out on, there is a lesson there somewhere. this is a great track used to stand in my bedroom with a tennis racket pretending to Neil Schon.
• Betty from Bedford, Oh I thought this song was written by Steve Perry but I guess not LOL songs that are written about something you feel are the best songs. This is one of my ultimate favorites songs.
• Hannah from Ottawa, On ANY Journey song is a good song but I particularly like Faithfully and Open Arms. They remind me of the early 8o's when I was in middle school. We always heard these songs at the school dances.
• Megan from Stevenson, Al OMG! This song is so great! One of the greatest bands in history...
• Mariana from Timisoara, Romania I decided to have this song played at my wedding when I first heard it, years before I met my husband. It is so beautiful and so romantic!
• Jordan from San Antonio, Tx my bf is the best to me. im so thankful for him and how he treats me. after everything he still cares for me tremendously.. i cried when i heard this song after he told me it reminds him of me like crzy. he is a very known band...and this song fits his commitment towards me . i love him
• Tt from Columbia, Sc A piece of history a song that will last forever and a day ,
• Danny from Your Town, Ia A song that will stand the test of time. Our grandkids will be talking about this one. My 17 year old already does.
• David from Youngstown, Oh One of the most unintentionally funny songs ever. The lyrics are so cliche. "They say that the road ain't no place to start a family" and "Circus lights under the big top world." So ridiculous. Forever yours...faithfully
• Theresa from Murfreesboro, Tn Journey's best song - hands down.
• Brandon from Kalamazoo, Mi my favorite song of all time....just hits me every time...Steve Perry's voice it's so good
• Jackie Moritz from Philadelphia, Pa When I first heard this song I was 13, now almost four years later this song still is my favorite! My best friend Jarred & I dedicated this song to each other. He moved away two years ago and to me this song describes how faithful we are to each other.
• Aaron from Jacksonville, Fl When I first heard this song when I was 17 it has gotten me through a lot of tough times! One of there best!!
• Rhodora from Quezon , Philippines This song was written by Jonathan Cain on a napkin of The Hilton Hotel when they were on the road, touring.
• Aldrin from Manila, Philippines very romantic journey song..beautiful song lines accompanied with steve perry's powerful vocals and neil schon's guitar..man i have nothing to say about this song but for me its a classic..
• Erikka from Buckeye, Az This song is probably the most romantic song I have ever heard!! I love it! I asked the DJ at prom if he would play it, and he asked me "Who's Journey?" I thought he was joking. I was 10 years younger than the guy, and he didn't even know who Journey is!! Pitiful, just pitiful.
• Jeff from Chicago, Ga Randy jackson played bass on the Raised on Radio album and toured with the band.. that hot pink outfit he wore should be outlawed!!
• Melissa from Lorton, Va I love this song... I remember when I was four and my dad would play this song on the radio to help me go to sleep. It is one of my favorite Journey songs.
• Jeff from Austin, Tx I agree with Scott from Columbus. That is a fantastic line. And the line before it as well..."Two strangers learn to fall in love again". Unbelievable song, easily one of the best ever written. And as usual, Steve Perry sang the hell out of it.
• Chris from Miami, Fl I used to love this song because I would always dedicate it to my gf wenever i would hear it but after all that it really meant nuthing. Its a great song with lyrics that have meaning but honestly I don't like it anymore =[
• Julia from Knoxville, Tn Ryan, it's ironic that I notice you're in Mobile, AL. this song was popular when I lived there.
• Julia from Knoxville, Tn My best friend was able to go to a Journey concert, and that is what makes her get emotional now when she and I both hear the song.
• Matt from Bristol, United States I first heard this song about 10 years ago on a TV advert for a sale on sofas at BHS :P Then, last year, I bought a Journey album and was instantly reaquainted.
• I. Orta from Austin, Tx it stinks being born in 89 cuz nobody tells you about all this great music that was created before any song that came out was manufactured from a make up artist an excutive and some eye candy to sell records. i wanna know what the good times were like, especially when gas was low. and 80s people thought they knew everything, i wanna know!!!!
• Mike from Orleans, In This is my favorite Journey song. i am one of a few students at my high school who listens to Journey.
• Brad from Redding, Ca Has anybody seen the music video for this? It has got to be one of the most unintentially funny things I've ever seen. The shot of Steve Perry about to shave his moustache is hilarious.
• Millerman from Dacusville, Sc Hey Danny in Cape Breton (sounds like a beautiful place), it was 3 years after this song was released before Randy Jackson came on board for the Journey lads. Cheers, mate!
• Robert from San Francisco, Ca Great ipod song while riding throught the streets of SF!
• Danny from Cape Breton, Canada totaly wicked song i was wondering if american idol judge randy jackson played with journey or this track as a basist, i am sure he has, as said earlier this one will take you back to that special one who will always be faithfully!
• Scott from Columbus, Oh The line: "I get the joy of re-discovering you" is nothing short of genius and inspiring...what a beautiful way to say I still appreiciate your love and how much it inspires me. Fooking beautiful! Journey was a certainly one of the best combinations of musicians to ever become. Bravo!
• Jayna from Youngstown, Oh Journey is by far the GREATEST band in the entire world!!! i love open arms best song ever! faithfully is my 2nd favorite song!! JOURNEY KICKS ASS!!
• Dee from Indianapolis, In This has to be one of the best love songs ever written. Between this and Open Arms you can't go wrong for slow dancing or romancing. This reminds me of some of my 1st crushes I had as a early teen. I still can tear up over this one at times.
• Ryan from Mobile, Al True True...it is a great song. I do think of the one that got away :'(
• Joe from Ocala, Fl You can't hear this song without thinking of the girl that got away in your own life.

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• "Faithfully" By Journey Lyrics

Journey - "Faithfully" By Journey Lyrics

Artist: Journey

Album: Miscellaneous

Genre: Rock

Highway run into the midnight sun Wheels go round and round, you're on my mind Restless hearts sleep alone tonight Sendin' all my love along the wire They say that the road ain't no place to start a family Right down the line it's been you and me 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 Circus life under the big top world We all need the clowns to make us smile Through space and time always another show Wondering where I am lost without you And being apart ain't easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy of rediscovering you Oh, girl, you stand by me, I'm forever yours faithfully Whoa, oh, oh, oh Whoa, oh, oh, oh, oh Whoa, oh, oh, oh, oh, whoa, oh Faithfully, I'm still yours I'm forever yours, ever yours faithfully

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Song Meanings and Facts

Faithfully by Journey Lyrics Meaning – Unraveling the Romantic Odyssey in Classic Rock

by SMF AI · Published January 15, 2024 · Updated April 24, 2024

• Music Video

The Tour Bus as a Love Boat: Understanding the Song’s Journey

Torn between chords and commitment: the rockstar relationship, rediscovering love in every city: the song’s hidden promise, embracing the heartache: timeless lines speak volumes, why ‘faithfully’ resonates across generations and genders.

They say that the road Ain’t no place to start a family Right down the line It’s been you and me 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

Circus life Under the big top world We all need the clowns To make us smile Through space and time Always another show Wondering where I am Lost without you

And being apart ain’t easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy of rediscovering you Oh girl, you stand by me I’m forever yours, faithfully

Whoa-oh, oh-oh Whoa-oh, oh-oh, oh Whoa-oh, oh-oh, oh-oh

Faithfully I’m still yours

Full Lyrics

Journey’s ballad ‘Faithfully’ touches the soul like a timeless love letter, penned in the key of arena rock. Enveloped in lush keyboards and soaring guitars, the track stands as an emblem of devotion against the trials of a life on the road. Balancing the relentless demands of stardom with the tender needs of the heart, ‘Faithfully’ is an ode to the enduring love between a musician and their partner.

In a way that only music can, ‘Faithfully’ resonates with an authenticity that leaps beyond the power ballad’s era, touching listeners who share the universal experience of loving amidst adversity. Every verse and chorus weaves together the hard-won joy and inherent loneliness of the touring life, creating a narrative that strikes chords both literal and emotional.

The opening lines of ‘Faithfully’ immediately transport the listener to the endless highways of a touring musician ‘Into the midnight sun.’ With every turn of the wheel, the protagonist carries the weight of separation, enduring the physical distance from their loved one, yet keeping them ‘on my mind.’ This introduction sets the tone for a saga about maintaining a robust emotional connection, no matter how many miles lie in between.

These verses have become anthems for the wandering heart, telling a story not just of rockstar bravado but of vulnerability. The song’s central theme explores how one copes with the ‘circus life’ under the ‘big top world,’ juxtaposing the glamor of the spotlight with the private yearning for domestic bliss.

Critics and fans alike are often quick to romanticize the life of a touring musician, but ‘Faithfully’ strips back that facade to reveal the complexities beneath. The song acknowledges the industry’s skepticism — ‘They say that the road ain’t no place to start a family’ — but it also fortifies the notion that love can navigate even the rockiest terrains.

The song’s protagonist recognizes the uniqueness of his relationship: ‘Lovin’ a music man ain’t always what it’s supposed to be.’ Despite the nontraditional dynamic and the pressures it invites, there’s a powerful assertion of commitment. ‘Oh girl, you stand by me,’ the singer professes, an assertion of gratitude to the person who endures the loneliness alongside the artist, reinforcing their bond.

One of the most profound messages in ‘Faithfully’ lies in the recognition of love’s resilience — ‘Two strangers learn to fall in love again.’ This line suggests that each reunion is both a return and a renewal, a chance to fall in love anew. This cyclical rediscovery keeps their relationship fresh and evolving, a testament to the strength of their emotional connection.

It’s a hidden meaning that appeals to anyone who’s faced obstacles in their love life. The ‘strangers’ here represent the changing individual identities that people must reckon with over time. The song underlines that in love, particularly one under the strain of constant separation, embracing change is as necessary as celebrating consistency.

The hook of ‘Faithfully’ – ‘I’m forever yours, faithfully’ – is elegantly simple yet unfathomably deep, capturing the essence of the song’s message. It has become a memorable proclamation extending beyond the music into wedding vows and anniversary cards. These words encapsulate the paradox of being forever bound to someone in spirit, even when life’s circumstances keep you apart.

More than just a catchy chorus, these lines reverberate with a sense of dedication that transcends physical presence. They offer comfort and reaffirmation of commitment amidst the loneliness of the road, serving as a touching reminder that love is not solely measured in moments spent side by side.

There’s a reason why ‘Faithfully’ continues to endure in the hearts of music lovers; it’s more than just a ballad. It’s an anthem for the trials of maintaining a connection over time and distance, and it resonates with anyone who has ever fought to keep a relationship alive. Its universal appeal lies in its honest look at the sacrifices and rewards of unwavering love.

As with any piece of great art, ‘Faithfully’ holds a mirror up to the human condition, reflecting a range of emotional truths. Whether one is a ‘music man,’ a long-distance lover, or simply a person striving to stay connected to those they cherish, the song’s emotive power is undeniable. It keeps ‘Faithfully’ spinning on turntables and streaming playlists, an everlasting tribute to love’s enduring song.

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Journey – “Faithfully” Lyrics Meaning

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

“Faithfully” is a powerful ballad that delves deep into the trials and tribulations of love, especially in the context of a life lived on the road. It’s a heartfelt ode to enduring love and commitment amidst the challenges of a musician’s lifestyle. The songwriter, Jonathan Cain, pens a narrative of love’s steadfastness, painting a picture of a relationship that withstands the tests of time and distance. At its core, the song is about the promise of eternal fidelity, a message that resonates with anyone who’s ever faced the struggles of maintaining a relationship through separation and the demands of one’s career. It’s a tribute to the lovers who stand by each other, no matter what.

What are the depths of love and dedication in a life filled with constant movement and change? “Faithfully” by Journey explores these themes in a way that’ll tug at your heartstrings. Keep reading to uncover the layers of meaning hidden within this classic ballad.

“Faithfully” Lyrics Meaning

The opening lines, “Highway run into the midnight sun,” immediately set the scene of life on the road, with the “wheels go ’round and ’round” symbolizing the cyclical, never-ending nature of this lifestyle. This introduction sets the tone for the song’s exploration of the complexities of maintaining love and connection amidst constant movement.

The phrase “Restless hearts, sleep alone tonight” speaks to the isolation and loneliness that can accompany such a life, highlighting the physical and emotional distance that often exists between loved ones. Yet, in sending “all my love along the wire,” there’s a profound sense of hope and effort to bridge that gap, underscoring the commitment to keep the flame of love alive, regardless of the miles that separate them.

The songwriter then addresses a common belief that “the road ain’t no place to start a family,” directly confronting the challenges faced by those who live a nomadic life. Despite these obstacles, the lyrics affirm, “Right down the line, it’s been you and me,” showcasing a strong bond that remains unbroken by the hardships of road life. This commitment is further emphasized in the chorus, “Oh, girl, you stand by me / I’m forever yours, faithfully,” a promise of unwavering loyalty and devotion.

“Circus life under the big-top world” metaphorically represents the showbiz life, filled with its ups and downs, likened to a circus. The need for “clowns to make us smile” reflects the necessity of finding joy and laughter, even in transient moments, to cope with the separation and stress that comes with this lifestyle.

The bridge, “And being apart ain’t easy on this love affair / Two strangers learn to fall in love again,” touches on the rejuvenation of love through continuous effort and rediscovery. It acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining a relationship over time and distance, yet also celebrates the beauty of rekindling love, reaffirming the commitment to stand by each other.

In conclusion, the repeated declarations of “I’m forever yours, faithfully” serve as a powerful testament to the enduring nature of love, commitment, and fidelity in the face of life’s challenges. “Faithfully” captures the essence of a love that is both tested and strengthened by the trials of life on the road, offering a message of hope and perseverance for lovers everywhere.

The Story Behind “Faithfully”

The story of “Faithfully” begins with Jonathan Cain, Journey’s keyboardist, who penned the song during a challenging period of constant touring and separation from loved ones. Cain’s inspiration came from the personal experiences and struggles that came with living a life on the road, particularly the impact it had on relationships and family life.

During this time, Cain and the band were at the height of their fame, touring extensively and facing the realities of rock and roll lifestyle—where the glamour and excitement were often overshadowed by loneliness and the strain it placed on personal connections. The song emerged from Cain’s deep reflections on the sacrifices made for one’s career and the importance of maintaining a strong bond with those left behind.

“Faithfully” was written on a bus during a long night journey, with Cain contemplating the paradox of being surrounded by fans yet feeling isolated without his loved ones. This introspection led to the creation of a ballad that not only resonated with fellow musicians but also with anyone who’s ever faced the challenge of balancing a demanding career with the needs of a relationship.

The emotional depth of “Faithfully” is further enriched by the understanding of the toll that the music industry can take on artists and their families. It’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and commitments required to preserve love amidst the chaos of life. Cain’s heartfelt lyrics and the song’s emotive melody capture the universal struggle to keep love alive against the odds, making “Faithfully” an enduring anthem of love, sacrifice, and hope for generations.

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Story Behind the Song: Journey's 'Faithfully'

One morning, Journey's Jonathan Cain woke up in his tour bus to the stench of diesel fuel and with the beginning of a rock anthem scrawled on a napkin. He told the story of writing "Faithfully" to Bart Herbison of Nashville Songwriters Association International.

Bart Herbison: “Highway run into the midnight sun.” There is not a greater opening line in the history of music. I'm thinking “Stairway to Heaven,” the first two lines aren't that good. Wow, Jon!

Jonathan Cain: Well, I was on a bus and we were rolling along after a show. I sat out waiting for some of the crew to come with us. They were taking the big stage down. I was seeing these riggers pulling it all down, and I just sat out there in this big empty auditorium. I thought, "Man, you know, these guys are sacrificing this time with their families or loved ones to be out here with us." And I started thinking, “Wouldn’t it be great if we had a song we could sing for all of us, because we're all missing our loved ones, and all making that road sacrifice?” So I went to the bus with that thought. And I had a napkin and it was those first four lines.

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More: Story Behind the Song: 'Don't Stop Believin' '

BH: A songwriter actually did write a song on a napkin?

JC: On a napkin, yeah. “Wheels go round and round, you're on my mind.” And then I (thought), “Well, I'm tired. I’m gonna keep this and go lay down in the bunk.” So I did. And back in those days, you wake up smelling like diesel.

So we were up to upstate New York. I took the napkin to my (hotel) room, put all my bags down and just fell asleep. I woke up and I looked at the napkin. And I had a little Casio MT30 keyboard. I was plunking around on it and I’m trying to get an idea for the melody. And then, you know, "Restless hearts, sleep alone tonight. Sendin' all my love along the wire.” What next? Well, I reckon it’s a Holy Spirit moment, because I've never written a song in 20 minutes.

BH: I think you’re feeling guilty, is what I’ve always read. Cause you would typically go to Steve ...

JC: Yeah, so I’m filled with this idea. And it’s a supernatural moment that I’ll never forget. There was sunlight just streaming in the window. And me and this napkin, and a little keyboard this big on the bed, you know?

… We go to sound check, I’ve got my napkin in my pocket, and everybody goes to dinner except me. I wander back into the symphony piano room, and I find this big nine-foot Mason & Hamlin, this big old beautiful piano from the '40s. … There I am and I’ve got my napkin. And I sat it in front of me, and I start. And I’m like, “This is better than I thought it was gonna be. This is gonna be good.”

BH: You had to know it was special, right?

JC: Well, I knew it had something. I knew anytime you have that innocence and that transparency and you’re able to let your guard down as a man, and tell a woman that you’re forever hers. I was having trouble with my marriage at the time, and so my wife came on the road and I played it for her. And she just gave me a big old hug. It meant a lot to her that I had written it.

BH: Tell me you still have that napkin.

JC: I do not. You know what happened? This is a sad story. This is the way things go. They were, Sony, was looking for memorabilia. You know, for their floor downstairs they have like this big exhibit they were going to put up. And so they asked me if I had my lyrics, and I gave them my book with the napkin, and I never got it back.

BH: So they still have it?

JC: No, it's gone. I looked. Everything is gone.

BH: Universe, bring that back. It’s his.

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About Faithfully

"Faithfully" is a song by American rock band Journey, and the second single from their album Frontiers. The song was written by keyboardist Jonathan Cain. It peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving the band their second consecutive top-twenty hit from Frontiers. Despite featuring no chorus, it has gone on to become one of the band's most recognizable hits and has enjoyed lasting popularity. In a Classic Rock article, "Faithfully" was called the greatest power ballad ever recorded.   more »

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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 »

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Written by: Jonathan Cain

Lyrics © Wixen Music Publishing, HIPGNOSIS SONGS GROUP

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"Faithfully Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Aug. 2024. < https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/17923060/Journey/Faithfully >.

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 #12, more tracks from the album, don't stop believin': the best of journey.

• #1 Don't Stop Believin'
• #2 Who's Cryin' Now
• #3 Be Good to Yourself
• #4 Open Arms
• #5 Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
• #6 Faithfully
• #7 Only the Young
• #8 Ask the Lonely
• #9 Nickel & Dime
• #10 Wheel in the Sky
• #11 Lovin' Touchin' Squeezin'
• #12 Walks Like a Lady
• #13 The Party's Over (Hopelessly in Love)
• #14 Stone in Love
• #15 Still They Ride
• #16 Only Solutions
• #17 Send Her My Love
• #18 After the Fall
• #19 Suzanne
• #20 Girl Can't Help It
• #21 Why Can't This Night Go on Forever
• #22 Mystery Mountain
• #23 Message of Love
• #24 Can't Tame the Lion
• #25 If He Should Break Your Heart
• #26 All the Way
• #27 Of a Lifetime
• #29 On a Saturday Night
• #30 I'm Gonna Leave You
• #31 Spaceman
• #34 Chain Reaction

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