The Time Journey (The Band) Allowed An Audience Vote To Pick Their Encore Song

April 2, 2025

It was a warm summer night in 2018 when the popular band Journey took the stage at a packed amphitheater. Fans of all ages had gathered, their hearts pounding with excitement, ready to sing along to timeless classics like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Wheel in the Sky.” The electric atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the lights dimmed and the band members stepped into the spotlight. Just a few songs into their set, lead singer Arnel Pineda, with his powerful voice and charismatic presence, looked out at the sea of faces and knew this night would be special.

As the concert reached its climax, Arnel surprised everyone with a bold idea. “Tonight, we want you to choose our encore song!” he announced, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. The crowd erupted in cheers, and the energy surged as they realized they had a say in the show’s final moments. The band quickly gathered together to narrow down the choices to three fan favorites: “Faithfully,” “Any Way You Want It,” and “Separate Ways.” With a simple vote via their smartphones, the audience suddenly became part of the performance, creating a sense of unity and excitement that was almost palpable.

As the votes were tallied on a giant screen, the tension in the air was electric. Fans shouted their support for their favorite songs, and each time a name was mentioned, a roar of voices erupted. Even though Arnel had performed countless encore songs in his career, this moment felt different. It was a reminder of why he had pursued music in the first place: to connect with people, to make them feel, and to share experiences. His heart raced as he looked around, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the unwavering support from the fans who had embraced him when he joined the band after a difficult period in his life.

Finally, the screen flashed the winner: “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The crowd went wild, singing along with every word as Arnel and the band gave it their all. In that moment, they weren’t just a band playing a song; they were a community pulsing with joy and energy. Arnel soaked in the experience, feeling the love and camaraderie from the audience. It was a triumphant reminder of how music could bridge distances, heal wounds, and bring people together.

After the concert, reviews flooded in, praising Journey not only for their incredible performance but also for their innovative approach to fan engagement. The night became a significant milestone in Journey’s career, revitalizing their connection with fans and solidifying their legacy as a band that truly listened to their audience. Arnel felt a renewed sense of purpose; he realized that music wasn’t just about the notes or lyrics—it was about the shared moments that lingered long after the last chord faded.

From that night on, the story of the audience-voted encore spread like wildfire, inspiring other artists to let their fans become part of their performances. Journey had carved a new path in the industry, and with it came a wave of fresh energy that fueled their passion for music. Arnel often reflected on that unforgettable evening, knowing that every time they took the stage, they were not alone—their fans were right there with them, and together, they would continue to journey through the power of music.