Arnel Pineda and Journey: A Philippines Success Story
Ever since I mentioned Journey's discovery of Arnel Pineda, I've been following along to see how things transpire for him.
Articles of Interest
Someone went through great effort to build a nice Wikipedia page on Arnel Pineda and included recent news about his involvement with Journey.
"Immigrant Success Stories" (dead link) currently shows "Arnel Pineda's Journey To America As Faithfully Told" near the top of the page. After reading the story, it makes me question the intelligence of the immigration officers at the embassy. Arnel Pineda lucked out because the officer actually saw him perform. What would have happened if the officer hadn't seen the performance? I'm pretty sure the visa would have been denied since they had already categorized him as a "nutjob". I guess they can't look up names like "Arnel Pineda" on Google and YouTube at the embassy.
Current Events
Arnel Pineda is already touring with Journey and they've performed in Chile and Las Vegas, Nevada (US) as evidenced by all the videos available on YouTube. He has been featured on television shows in both the Philippines and the US.
The band has already recorded a new album titled "Revelation", which will be available exclusively through the Wal-Mart chains in a few days. Guess what? I can't get it here! With new renditions of "Don't Stop Believin'", "Wheel In The Sky", "Faithfully", "Open Arms" and other classic Journey hits, this is a "must have" addition for my personal collection.
[Update: My wife is buying it and bringing it back with her. I love that woman!]
Other Notes
Arnel Pineda started singing at the age of 15. When he was with one of his former bands, "Amo", he played at clubs here in Olongapo City. When my relatives heard the news about him becoming the lead singer of Journey, they were ecstatic since most of them had seen him perform live. Yes, he was performing the Journey songs even back in the late 80s and 90s.
An interesting aside to all of this is that there are reports that Arnel Pineda sought out Journey because he'd heard they were looking for a new lead singer. The reality is that Neal Schon (of Journey) sought Arnel out after seeing his videos on YouTube.
I will be surprised if "Journey's Revelation" doesn't go platinum. I'll be continuing to follow along as time progresses just to watch it happen.
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He looks like one of Taiwanese star.
What an inspiring story! He even has a look about him of success.
imagine that! who would have thought that the Journey's front man would come from the Philippines. And yeah, he really rocks!
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Arnel Pineda we in Carnival Cruise Line support you on your Journey, Good luck Arnel we are so proud of you, isa kang tunay na PINOY!!!!!!!!
Bravo!!! Youre great ,Always take care of your voice and dont abuse your health.God Bless… n tke care of ur success.i really cried when i saw your achievements.
ok na ok boses u Arnel walang pgkaiba sa dati vocalist hope magkameron ka libre concert dto phillipines……..gud luck……..
The album of Arnel with Journey-revelation was No.1 at Billboard "Top Indefendent Album" of this week here in the USA and No.5 at Vh1 best selling album. Now, the New Reborn-generation JOURNEY band was touring around the world without-minus Steve Perry OUT! Lets' wait, we are waiting them here in Bristol, Va.-Tenn.- to perform, were' excited to have them with Arnel! Their Album Journey-revelation was SOLD OUT here in Virginia and Tennessee, say you!
I didn't understand everything you said, Ernie, but yes, it has sold out at a lot of the Wal-Marts. My wife picked up the last 2 albums at one of them before they re-ordered more.
I know I can only speak for myself, but I also know there are tons of people out there who are getting hooked on YT because of Arnel. Kaya, Arnel…. dasal ka palagi and take care of yourself!!! Way to go, Journey!!!!
REVELATION ALBUM IS A SUCCESS! Journey with ARNEL PINEDA rocks UK and EUROPE concert tour. Congratulations guys . Waiting for your concert here in TEXAS!!!! :smile:
I had great time watching you (JOURNEY) on your concert at Irvine,California.You rocked the City.For all the success behind you, i send my congratulations and prayers for all the challenges ahead. GOD BLESS YOU!!!!!