Rock band Journey has canceled their U.K. and Ireland tour dates amid an escalating legal battle between keyboardist Jonathan Cain and lead guitarist Neal Schon. The dispute, which centers around financial mismanagement, has led to significant disruptions within the band.
Key Takeaways
- Journey cancels U.K. and Ireland tour dates due to internal legal issues.
- The legal battle involves financial disputes between Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon.
- The band’s North American tour remains unaffected.
Tour Cancellations
Journey, known for hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms,” has canceled their U.K. and Ireland tour dates, which were part of their 50th Anniversary Freedom Tour. The tour was set to begin in Cardiff, Wales, and include stops in major cities like London, Manchester, and Dublin. However, ticketholders were informed via email that the shows were canceled “due to circumstances beyond the band’s control.”
The Legal Battle
The legal feud between Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon has been ongoing for years. The latest court filings reveal that Cain has asked a Delaware judge to resolve a deadlock regarding Freedom 2020, a company that oversees the band’s tour-related finances. Both Cain and Schon hold a 50% stake in the company, with Schon serving as president.
Cain accuses Schon of overspending on the band’s credit card, including expenses like $10,000-a-night hotel rooms and private jets. Schon, on the other hand, denies any mismanagement and claims that Cain is creating a toxic work environment.
Financial Disputes
The financial disagreements have led to a dysfunctional atmosphere within the band. Cain’s attorney described the situation as “dysfunctional,” stating that it has affected the band’s performances and relationships with vendors. The band has lost multiple crew members due to the ongoing tensions.
Impact on the Band
Despite the internal strife, Journey’s Summer Stadium tour in North America, featuring Def Leppard, remains unaffected. The band is scheduled to perform at San Diego’s Petco Park on August 30, with tickets still available.
Looking Ahead
The resolution of this legal battle remains uncertain. Both Cain and Schon hope that a judge’s intervention will bring an end to their financial disputes, allowing the band to focus on their music and fans once again.
Sources
- Journey cancels tour dates amid members’ legal battle, FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
- Members of iconic rock band ask judge to resolve financial deadlock with lead guitarist, PennLive.com.
- Journey’s Neal Schon Fires Back in Legal Clash With Jonathan Cain, Loudwire.
- Member of iconic rock band sues fellow bandmate for overspending, PennLive.com.