Somewhere There’s Hope

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Somewhere There's Hope" from Steve Perry's 1994 solo album For the Love of Strange Medicine. This bluesy rocker, with its gospel-tinged energy, stands out as a fan favorite, praised for its clean production and Perry’s soaring vocals that seem to lift the spirit. In a review, the song is described as an updated take on Journey’s classic "Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’," showcasing Perry’s ability to channel raw emotion into a track that resonates deeply. Fans on Amazon reviews rave about its gut-wrenching intensity, with one calling it a show-stopper that “reaches into your guts and rips them out.” Another listener from Japan, in a translated comment, highlighted it as a testament to Perry’s unmatched vocal expression, cementing his status as a legendary vocalist.

Not much is shared directly from Perry about the song’s creation, but its context within the album tells a story. Released after an eight-year hiatus following Journey’s 1987 split, For the Love of Strange Medicine marked Perry’s return to music after he admitted to losing his passion for writing and recording. In a rare Japanese TV interview, Perry vaguely described the album’s title as reflecting “love, a desire for fame, a lack of money; anything, really,” suggesting the song might carry a universal message of resilience amid personal struggles. The album, including this track, was a bold step back into the spotlight, with Perry collaborating with musicians like Lincoln Brewster and Paul Taylor to craft a sound that balanced his Journey roots with a fresh, mature edge. Though the album faced harsh reviews and modest sales, “Somewhere There’s Hope” remains a gem for die-hard fans who connect with its uplifting spirit.

Steve Perry, born Stephen Ray Perry on January 22, 1949, in Hanford, California, grew up with music in his blood. Of Portuguese heritage, Perry was inspired by his father, Raymond, a vocalist, and icons like Sam Cooke and Al Jolson. His childhood wasn’t easy—his parents split when he was seven, but he stayed close to his mother, who later remarried. Perry didn’t consider singing professionally until, as a teen, he heard Sam Cooke’s “Cupid” on the radio, a moment that sparked his ambition. Before fame, he fronted local bands, including Alien Project, which laid the groundwork for his big break. In 1977, Perry joined Journey as a replacement for Robert Fleischman, transforming the band’s sound with his pop-infused style and powerful voice. His tenure from 1977 to 1987, and briefly from 1995 to 1998, produced hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms,” earning him the nickname “The Voice” from Jon Bon Jovi.

Perry’s solo career kicked off with 1984’s Street Talk, featuring the hit “Oh Sherrie,” and continued with For the Love of Strange Medicine. After years of stepping back from music, he returned in 2018 with Traces, driven by a promise to a loved one to keep performing. You can keep up with Perry on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans also gather at ForTheLoveOfStevePerry.com, a tribute site celebrating his Journey and solo work, and on Facebook groups like the Steve Perry Fan Club, where Zoo Freaks can connect with fellow devotees to share their love for “The Voice” and tracks like “Somewhere There’s Hope.”