The Tour Where Journey Set Off Fireworks Indoors — And Nearly Got Banned From The Venue

April 1, 2025

It was the summer of 1986, and the excitement was palpable in the air as the legendary rock band Journey prepared for their concert at the Oakland Coliseum. Fans had been eagerly waiting for weeks, and the anticipation swelled like a tidal wave. They had their neon shirts on, holding up signs, and chanting the band’s name. For Journey, this was more than just another show; it was an opportunity to bring their music to life in a way that would leave a lasting impression. Little did they know that their ambitious plans that night would almost end their career.

As the band tuned their instruments backstage, the atmosphere was electric. Steve Perry, the charismatic lead singer, had a vision for the performance. He wanted to create something unforgettable, a night that would be etched in the minds of fans forever. After brainstorming with the crew, they decided to add a dramatic flair to their show: indoor fireworks. It was a bold move, one that could either elevate the concert to spectacular heights or put them in dangerous waters. The excitement about the idea was infectious, and everyone felt the thrill of potential greatness.

The concert began with roaring enthusiasm, and as Journey played their hit songs, the crowd sang along, their voices ringing through the arena. Then, as the final notes of “Don’t Stop Believin’” echoed through the coliseum, the moment had arrived. Fireworks exploded into brilliant colors above the stage, filling the arena with dazzling light. It was a breathtaking sight, but just seconds later, reality struck. The smoke alarms blared, and panic rippled through the crowd. The venue’s management was furious, and many reached for their phones to record what was now chaos instead of celebration.

After the concert, the backlash was swift. The Oakland Coliseum’s management was not just upset; they threatened to ban Journey from performing there ever again. The band members were devastated. They had simply wanted to share their passion and create a magical experience, but now, they faced the consequences of one impulsive decision. Yet, amidst the turmoil, Steve Perry and the rest of the band remained united. They took a step back, reflecting on their love for music and their fans. They realized that while the fireworks stunt may have backfired, the true magic of their music was still alive.

In the weeks that followed, the band worked tirelessly to mend their reputation. They organized charity events, reached out to their fans through heartfelt letters, and even created a special concert just for those who had been present that night. The incident reminded them of the importance of resilience and humility in their journey as artists. Instead of being defined by the fiasco, they used it as fuel to push themselves creatively, crafting new songs that expressed their growth and passion.

Years later, Journey would look back on that tumultuous night not as a failure, but as a lesson in the beauty of imperfection. Their career soared to new heights, with concerts becoming even more unforgettable, not because of fireworks, but due to their authentic music and connection with fans. In the end, the incident became a part of their legend—a testament to their spirit, creativity, and unyielding love for rock and roll. The lesson was clear: sometimes, we stumble, but it’s how we rise from those falls that truly defines us.