The Final Encore Where Journey Didn’T Plan The Setlist — And Played All Requests

April 2, 2025

The night was electric, the air thick with anticipation as fans filled the arena, all eagerly awaiting a performance that promised to be something special. Journey, the legendary rock band known for their anthemic melodies and heartfelt lyrics, arrived on stage, but this time, they had decided to do something completely different. Instead of a carefully planned setlist, the band announced that they would be playing songs based solely on audience requests. A wave of excitement swept through the crowd, each person eager to hear their favorite tune come to life.

As the first note echoed through the venue, lead singer Arnel Pineda felt an exhilarating rush. He had joined Journey just a few years prior, becoming the heart of the band after a long search for a new frontman. Arnel’s journey to this moment had been anything but easy; he transitioned from singing on street corners in the Philippines to belting out powerful rock ballads in front of thousands. Now, in this spontaneous performance, he could feel the connection with the audience deepen. The very air vibrated with the shared love of music—the kind that transcends age, background, and even language.

One by one, the fans shouted out their requests. “Don’t Stop Believin’!” cried a group of teenagers, and with a nod from the band, the familiar piano intro filled the space, igniting an explosion of enthusiasm. The crowd sang along passionately, their voices blending together in a beautiful symphony of hope and nostalgia. Arnel saw the joy on their faces, and in that moment, he understood that every note they played was more than just a song; it was a shared experience, a memory being created together in the glow of the stage lights.

As the night wore on, the band cycled through a whirlwind of hits, from “Wheel in the Sky” to “Faithfully.” Each request brought its own unique burst of energy, with fans dancing and swaying, lost in the music that defined so many years of their lives. Even when technical difficulties arose, Journey handled them with grace and laughter. Arnel’s resilience shone through as he encouraged the crowd to keep singing, turning potential frustration into an unforgettable moment of raw authenticity. It was a testament to the band’s dedication to their art and to their fans.

By the time they played their last song, the crowd was a sea of smiles, tears of joy streaming down faces. Arnel stepped up to the mic, taking a moment to reflect on the night. “You all made this possible,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “Music is about connection and love. Thank you for letting us share this with you.” The fans roared, knowing they had participated in something monumental—an encore that would be remembered for years to come.

That night became a turning point for Journey, revitalizing not only their connection with their audience but also Arnel’s own spirit as a performer. Inspired by the raw, organic nature of the event, the band decided to embrace spontaneity more often, allowing their setlists to evolve with the energy of the crowd. For Arnel, it solidified his belief that music is a powerful force—one that brings people together, heals wounds, and creates lasting memories. Journey wasn’t just a band; they were a living testament to the power of music and resilience, and that night, they reminded everyone that life is meant to be lived fully, one song at a time.