The Sound Engineer Who Added Echo To Steve Perry’S Voice On “Lights” — And Created Magic

April 1, 2025

In the heart of San Francisco during the late 1970s, something magical was brewing in a dimly lit recording studio filled with flickering lights and the scent of fresh coffee. It was here that a talented sound engineer named Mike was about to witness a moment that would change music history forever. The legendary band Journey had gathered to record their fourth studio album, “Infinity,” and their lead singer, Steve Perry, was ready to pour his heart into a new song called “Lights.” Little did they know, this very track would soon resonate with fans across the world and define Perry’s soaring legacy.

As Mike prepared the equipment, he felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. Journey was on the brink of becoming a household name, and Steve Perry’s voice was the centerpiece of their sound. The band had always known that Perry’s vocal range was exceptional, but tonight, they needed something extra to make the song truly shine. Inspired by the atmosphere of the city that sparkled at night, Mike decided to experiment with a technique he had been researching—adding echo to Perry’s voice. He believed that a touch of echo would elevate the raw emotion in Perry’s singing, transforming it into something ethereal.

When Perry entered the booth, he was full of passion and energy. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and began to sing. As his powerful voice filled the room, Mike carefully adjusted the dials, adding layers of echo that wrapped around Perry’s notes like a warm embrace. The moment Perry heard his voice bounce back with this new texture, he lit up instantly. The echo turned his heartfelt lyrics into a haunting melody that echoed through the studio, filling every corner with emotion. It was as if the sound was painting a picture of the city they loved, encapsulating the dreams and hopes of the people who lived there.

Mike watched as Perry poured his soul into each note, and he could feel the magic unfolding. The combination of Perry’s voice and the echo created an atmosphere that was both powerful and intimate. It was a moment where art and technology merged, and the result was nothing short of astonishing. With every take, the song deepened, pulling at the heartstrings of everyone in the room. By the time they finished recording “Lights,” it felt like they had captured lightning in a bottle.

When the album was released, “Lights” soared to the top of the charts, becoming one of Journey’s signature songs. Fans across the globe connected with the powerful lyrics and the enchanting sound that Mike had crafted. Steve Perry’s career skyrocketed, and he became known not just for his incredible voice but for his ability to convey deep emotions through his music. “Lights” turned into an anthem for many, reminding listeners to embrace their dreams and the brilliance that life had to offer.

Reflecting on that night, Mike often thought about how a simple decision to add echo had transformed not only a song but also the trajectory of a band. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most profound moments in art come from taking risks and believing in the power of creativity. In the years that followed, Steve Perry continued to inspire countless artists and fans alike, teaching everyone that magic can happen when passion meets innovation. As for Mike, he felt blessed to have been a part of that journey, forever cherishing the memory of the night when a voice, a song, and a little echo created something extraordinary.