The Hotel Room Where “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’” Was Written During Heartbreak

April 2, 2025

In the heart of the bustling city of San Francisco, there was a small hotel called the Fairmont, known for its elegant charm and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was here, in a modest yet cozy room, that a young musician named Steve Perry found himself alone, heartbroken, and searching for solace. It was the late 1970s, a time when his heart was aching after a painful breakup, and he felt lost in a world that was once full of love and laughter. Little did he know, this room would become the birthplace of one of the most iconic songs of his career: “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’.”

As he sat on the edge of the bed, he could hear the sounds of the city outside, but they felt distant and muffled. The heartbreak weighed heavily on his soul, and he struggled to find inspiration in the midst of his pain. He picked up his guitar, the strings worn and familiar under his fingers, and began to play softly. With each chord, the memories of love and loss washed over him like a wave. It was in that moment of vulnerability that words began to pour out of him, capturing the essence of his feelings. The sadness transformed into a deep yearning, and he began to pen lyrics that spoke to the heartache he was experiencing.

The song began to take shape as he explored the themes of love and longing. He wrote about the moments that made him feel alive—the loving touches, the gentle squeezes of affection, and the bittersweet reality of saying goodbye. This was not just a song; it was his catharsis, a way to heal his bruised heart while creating something beautiful from his pain. The hotel room became his sanctuary, a place where sorrow and creativity intertwined, leading him to realize that sometimes heartbreak can be the catalyst for incredible art.

When Steve finished writing, he felt a weight lifted off his shoulders. He knew he had crafted something special. “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’” would go on to resonate with countless listeners, many of whom had experienced their own heartbreaks. As Journey recorded the song and added it to their album “Departure,” it not only showcased their evolving sound but also solidified Steve’s role as a powerful frontman in the band. The song climbed the charts, becoming a staple in their shows and an anthem for those navigating through love’s ups and downs.

Reflecting on that pivotal time in the hotel room, Steve understood that sometimes pain can lead to passion. His experience taught him the importance of vulnerability and resilience. Through his music, he conveyed emotions that people often struggle to express, and he found strength in sharing his story. Over the years, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’” would inspire others to embrace their feelings and find comfort in creativity, reminding everyone that heartbreak can lead to healing and new beginnings.

Years later, as he stood on stage, singing the very song that had emerged from his solitude in that San Francisco hotel room, Steve Perry felt a rush of gratitude. The cheers of the crowd filled his heart with joy, knowing that his journey through heartbreak had not only shaped him as an artist but had also connected him to countless fans around the world. He realized that the music and the love shared through it were far more powerful than the pain he had once felt, and that ultimately, love—whether lost or found—was worth every note.