Journey brings in Steve Murphy as Deen Castronovo steps away for the rest of November
Murphy debuted in Cleveland and will cover drums and selected lead vocals while Castronovo addresses personal health matters during the final stretch of Journey’s current tour leg.
· Edited by Peter Luha
Credit: Scott Legato / Getty Images (via source)
Journey has brought Steve Murphy into its touring lineup for the remainder of November after longtime drummer and singer Deen Castronovo stepped away to focus on personal health matters. Neal Schon said Castronovo has the band’s full support and thanked fans on his behalf. The move is temporary for the announced November dates; Journey has not said who will occupy the drum chair beyond that run.
Murphy made his first full appearance with Journey in Cleveland on November 12. Jonathan Cain introduced him from the stage, and Murphy handled both drums and some of Castronovo’s vocal duties, including lead vocals on “Just the Same Way” and “Anytime.” His touring background includes the Alan Parsons Live Project and work with Jack Bruce and former Journey singer Steve Augeri.
The change follows two recent shows in which Castronovo had to leave the stage early and drum technician Steve Toomey finished the set. Journey’s current North American leg continues through November 28 in San Francisco, with Murphy expected to stay aboard through that date. Castronovo first joined Journey in 1998, returned in 2021 and has remained a distinctive part of the live show because he covers both drums and prominent vocal parts.
Why it matters
Replacing a drummer who also carries key Journey vocals changes more than the rhythm section, and Murphy had to assume both jobs immediately on a major farewell-tour leg.
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Sources
- https://www.facebook.com/story.php?id=100044233174771&story_fbid=1692274258923664(primary)
- https://www.guitarplayer.com/music/journey-replaces-deen-castronovo-for-remainder-of-farewell-tour-he-has-our-full-support
- https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/music/article/journey-drummer-deen-castronovo-22530106.php
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