Any Way You Want It

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin the classic track "Any Way You Want It" by Journey from their 1980 album Departure. This high-energy anthem, one of Journey’s most iconic songs, has a few stories that make it a standout. According to posts on X by Neal Schon, the band’s guitarist, the song was co-written by Schon and lead singer Steve Perry, becoming their second most-streamed track behind "Don’t Stop Believin’." Schon proudly noted in a 2021 post that Departure, released on February 29, 1980, helped Journey surpass 1 billion streams on digital platforms, a milestone shared only with Queen at the time. The song’s infectious energy was captured live in a 1981 Houston performance, where Steve Perry’s athletic stage presence—running laps and jumping while singing at a faster tempo—left fans in awe, as highlighted in a 2024 X post by @historyrock_. Its enduring popularity is evident in its use in films, TV shows, and even as a cultural touchstone in the 1980s rock scene.

Another tidbit about "Any Way You Want It" comes from its creation process. In interviews, Steve Perry has shared that the song’s upbeat vibe was inspired by the band’s desire to craft something fun and liberating for their live audiences. The track’s simple yet powerful riff and sing-along chorus were designed to get crowds moving, a goal it still achieves decades later. Its inclusion on Departure, Journey’s sixth studio album, marked a pivotal moment for the band, as the album’s success solidified their shift toward a more accessible, radio-friendly sound while retaining their rock roots. Fans on platforms like X often celebrate the song’s nostalgic pull, with posts describing it as a quintessential 80s anthem that captures the era’s carefree spirit.

Journey’s journey to rock stardom began in San Francisco in 1973, formed by former members of Santana, including Neal Schon and keyboardist Gregg Rolie. Initially called the Golden Gate Rhythm Section, the band aimed to blend jazz-rock fusion with progressive elements. After a few albums with limited commercial success, the addition of Steve Perry as lead vocalist in 1977 transformed their sound and trajectory. Perry’s powerful voice and melodic sensibility, paired with Schon’s virtuosic guitar work, gave Journey a distinctive edge. Their 1978 album Infinity marked their breakthrough, and by the time Departure dropped in 1980, Journey was a household name, blending arena rock with pop sensibilities. The band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots has kept them relevant, with a career spanning over five decades.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out Journey’s official channels: their website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans also gather on dedicated spaces like the Journey Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memories, concert photos, and updates. Another great resource is Journey-Tribute.com, a fan site with detailed band history and discography. So, crank up "Any Way You Want It," let the Zoo Crew guide your vibes, and keep rockin’ with Journey’s timeless sound!