The Producer Who Made Journey (The Band) Rerecord “Only The Young” Three Times — And Kept The First Take

April 2, 2025

In the heart of the bustling Los Angeles music scene in the early 1980s, a young band called Journey was on the brink of something big. With their soaring melodies and powerful guitar riffs, they were quickly gaining a loyal fanbase. But for the band’s producer, the legendary Kevin Elson, one particular song had become a puzzle that needed solving. “Only the Young,” a track filled with hope and youthful energy, was meant to be the anthem that would propel Journey to new heights. Yet, as they recorded it, Kevin found himself torn between different takes, each with its own unique flair.

The band gathered in the studio, excitement buzzing in the air. After the first take, Kevin listened intently, hoping to capture the magic of the moment. The sound of Steve Perry’s voice filled the room, soaring above the instrumentals, carrying the weight of dreams and aspirations. But as much as he loved the raw energy of their performance, there was a nagging feeling in his gut that told him they could do better. In the spirit of perfection, they recorded the song two more times, each version showcasing their immense talent and dedication. Yet, no matter how polished the later takes were, they lacked the spark of the first.

Finally, after countless hours of listening and debating, Kevin made a bold decision. He chose to go with the very first take, the one that captured the genuine excitement and passion of the moment. It was unrefined and raw, but it was also real. That decision changed everything for Journey. “Only the Young” became not just a song, but a symbol of resilience and the belief that sometimes, being imperfect is what makes art truly beautiful. The band felt a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that their heartfelt performance had resonated so deeply.

As “Only the Young” climbed the charts, it became an anthem for a generation. The song echoed the hopes and dreams of countless young people, reminding them to chase their passions without fear. For Journey, this track was more than just a hit; it marked their arrival as a household name in rock music. The emotional impact of their music brought fans together, and the band members thrived on the energy and love from their audience.

Throughout the coming years, Journey continued to ride the wave of success, but the story of “Only the Young” remained close to their hearts. It taught them an invaluable lesson: that every artist has to embrace their journey, imperfections and all. Kevin Elson’s decision to trust his instincts and the band’s fiery performance served as a reminder to always be authentic in their music. Each time they played the song live, they felt the power of that first take, the magic that happened when they let their passion shine through.

In the end, “Only the Young” became more than just a song; it was a story of resilience, passion, and the power of remaining true to oneself. Journey’s journey was a testament to the idea that sometimes, what starts as a simple recording can become a lasting legacy, inspiring generations to come. And with every note they played, they celebrated not only the music but the vibrant spirit of youth that burned brightly in their hearts.