Softly

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Softly" by Neal Schon from his 1989 solo album Late Nite, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this soulful track. One intriguing piece of trivia about "Softly" is its collaborative creation, with contributions from former Journey members Gregg Rolie and Jonathan Cain, alongside Bob Marlette and Glen Burtnick. The song stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and Schon's emotive guitar work, which blends AOR with a touch of soul. In a 2015 interview with Get Ready to ROCK!, Schon reflected on his solo work, noting that albums like Late Nite allowed him to explore melodic and soulful styles distinct from Journey's arena rock sound. He described the recording process as a creative escape, emphasizing the freedom to experiment with vocal and instrumental textures, which is evident in "Softly's" gentle, romantic vibe.

Another tidbit about "Softly" comes from fan discussions on platforms like Neal Schon's Facebook page, where fans praise the song's unique use of background vocals by female singers, including a young Sheryl Crow. This addition creates a dynamic contrast with Schon's lead vocals, adding depth and color to the track. Reviews from the time, such as one by David Spodek in RPM magazine in June 1989, noted that while Late Nite showcased Schon's talent, tracks like "Softly" risked being overshadowed by Journey comparisons, yet still resonated with die-hard fans for their emotional sincerity. The song's lyrics, which speak of love and quiet moments, reflect Schon's ability to craft intimate narratives, a skill honed through years of songwriting for Journey.

Neal Schon's journey in music began at a remarkably young age, born on February 27, 1954, at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, to a musical family. His father, Matthew, was a big band musician and composer, while his mother, Barbara, was a big band singer. Schon picked up his first instrument, an acoustic Stella guitar, at age 10, and by 15, he was a prodigy invited to join Santana, contributing to the iconic Santana III album. Famously, Eric Clapton also asked Schon to join Derek and the Dominos, but he chose Santana, a decision that shaped his early career. In 1973, Schon co-founded Journey with former Santana manager Herbie Herbert and bandmate Gregg Rolie, evolving the group from a jazz-fusion outfit into a rock powerhouse known for hits like "Don't Stop Believin'."

Schon's guitar style, described as soulful and melodic, has earned praise from legends like Eric Clapton and Prince. Over the years, he has played various guitars, including a Gibson ES-335 and Paul Reed Smith models, and even produced his own line of Schon guitars in the 1980s. His solo career, including albums like Late Nite, showcases his versatility, blending rock, soul, and fusion. Schon remains the only consistent member of Journey, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame in 2013. His official website, schonmusic.com, offers updates on his music and tours, while his social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, and X keeps fans engaged with guitar sessions and Journey news.

For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with other fans, there are several active communities. The Neal Schon Facebook page has over 244,000 likes, where fans share stories and discuss his solo and Journey work. Additionally, fan-driven groups like the Journey Fan Club on Facebook provide a space for enthusiasts to celebrate Schon's contributions to Journey and his solo projects. Websites like journeymusic.com also offer official merchandise and updates, while fan sites such as Rate Your Music provide detailed discographies and reviews for collectors and new listeners alike.