Journey's Career in Flux: The Robert Fleischman Era
The legendary rock band Journey has had a fascinating journey of its own, with various lead singers and musical styles. One of the most intriguing periods in their career was the brief stint of Robert Fleischman as their frontman in 1977. While it lasted less than a year, this era holds a unique place in the band's history, offering a glimpse into the challenges and dynamics of the music industry.
The Search for a Lead Singer
Journey's initial focus was on being a backing band, but their manager, Herbie Herbert, envisioned a different path. He wanted the band to succeed on the radio, and a dedicated lead singer was crucial to this goal. The search led them to Robert Fleischman, who had previously been the frontman of Shatterminx, an LA-based band. Fleischman was hired to bring a pop-rock edge to Journey's sound while contributing as a songwriter.
A Songwriting Partnership
Fleischman's time with Journey was marked by a productive songwriting partnership. He collaborated with various band members, including Neal Schon and Steve Perry. One of his most notable contributions was the lyrics to "Wheel In The Sky", which became a concert staple and gained the band some mainstream airplay. This song, in particular, showcases Fleischman's ability to blend his style with Journey's existing sound.
A Tour and a Sudden End
Fleischman embarked on tour with the band, but his time as their frontman was short-lived. The reasons for his departure are somewhat conflicting. Fleischman believed it was due to Steve Perry's better industry connections, while Herbie Herbert claimed that Fleischman was too demanding. Regardless, the end came swiftly, and Fleischman was replaced by Perry under somewhat awkward circumstances.
The Steve Perry Era
Steve Perry's introduction to the band was a live audition in Chicago. He was seated backstage when the band played, introduced to Fleischman as a relative of the stage crew. Perry's audition was successful, and he took over as Journey's lead singer for their 1978 album, Infinity. The studio version of "Wheel In The Sky" on this album is a testament to Perry's voice and Fleischman's initial contribution.
A Missed Opportunity?
The Fleischman era raises an interesting question: what if he had stayed? His departure and Perry's arrival marked a shift in the band's sound and success. While Perry's tenure brought the band to new heights, Fleischman's contribution to "Wheel In The Sky" and his songwriting partnership with the band members cannot be overlooked. It's a reminder that the music industry is full of 'what ifs' and that every artist has a unique journey.
In my opinion, the Fleischman era is a fascinating chapter in Journey's story, offering a glimpse into the challenges of finding the right frontman and the impact of songwriting partnerships. It's a reminder that success in the music industry is often a result of collaboration and the right connections. The band's ability to pivot and adapt is what has kept them relevant for decades, and the Fleischman era is a testament to that resilience.
