Background
Single from Journey's 1981 album, Escape
Released in January 1981
Genre considered - Soft rock
Theme - Attempt to renew a drifting relationship
Lyrics co-written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry
One of Journey's most recognizable radio hits
No. 2 on Billboard Hot 100
No. 2 in Canada
Cover versions by Mariah Carey (most successful, No. 4 in the UK), Barry Manilow, Boyz II Men, Dolly Martin, and Celine Dion
"Open Arms" is a favorite on such reality television competitions as The Voice, American Idol, and the UK's The X Factor.
"...one of the greatest love songs ever written..."
Greatest power ballad of all time - VH1
"...a sentimental ballad featuring some delicate keyboard work and Steve Perry's seductive vocals..." - Billboard
"...one of rock's most beautiful ballads...gleams with an honesty and feel only Steve Perry could muster..." - Mike DeGagne, AllMusic
Point of intrigue - "Open Arms" was almost left off the album:
Neil Schon - "...it was so far removed from anything Journey had ever attempted to record before..."
Most of the band members were against the idea of performing ballads.
On the other hand,
"...I felt so proud of the song..." - Steve Perry, retrospective
Further,
Neil Schon recanted his opinion of "Open Arms" following audience reaction to a live performance and two encores while on the band's Escape tour.
Escape Personnel
Steve Perry - Lead vocals
Neal Schon - Electric guitar, Roland guitar synthesizer, backing
Jonathan Cain - Piano, Backing
Ross Valory - Bass, Backing
Steve Smith - Drums
Revelation Personnel
Arnel Pineda - Lead vocals
Neal Schon - Lead guitar, Backing vocals
Jonathan Cain - Keyboards, Rhythm guitar, Backing
Ross Valory - Bass, Backing
Deen Castronovo - Drums, Backing vocals
Year-end Charts (1982)
No. 21 Canadian RPM Top Singles
No. 34 Billboard Top Pop Singles
No. 21 Cashbox Top 100
No. 169 UK Singles (2009)
Certifications -
Gold in Canada & New Zealand
4x Platinum in the U.S.
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