Arnel Fans

Justin Jimenez of Asia Pacific Arts writes about Arnel.

Following a successful tour in Europe, Journey kicked off their first North American tour with their new Filipino frontman, Arnel Pineda, at a sold-out show in Denver, Colorado. Pineda joined the band in late 2007 after Journey guitarist Neal Schon discovered videos of the Filipino rocker belting out rock classics on YouTube. With the strong reputation Filipinos have for being great entertainers, it is no surprise that Pineda is well able to hold up to the legacy set by Journey’s original lead singer, Steve Perry. Many comparisons are made between Pineda and Perry, from the tenors’ powerful pipes to their energetic stage presence to their long, black tresses. Pineda is a particular hit among Filipino fans, who comprised a significant portion of the audience during their sold-out show at the Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas. Check out Pineda’s vocal chops during the rest of the 2008 Journey Tour, which runs from June 8 to October 5.– Justin Jimenez