"Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" is a song by the American rock band Journey, released in 1983 as a single from their album "Frontiers." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Chart Success: "Separate Ways" was a commercial success and reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also reached the top 10 in several other countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom.
Iconic Music Video: The music video for "Separate Ways" is known for its cheesy and somewhat infamous depiction of the band members playing their instruments at various locations in San Francisco, including a warehouse and near a shipping dock. The video has since become a source of nostalgia and amusement for fans and is often cited as one of the worst music videos ever made.
The 'Air Keyboard': The music video prominently features keyboardist Jonathan Cain "playing" an air keyboard. The use of air instruments in the video has contributed to its reputation as unintentionally humorous.
Contributions to Journey's Sound: "Separate Ways" is noted for its driving, energetic sound and showcases the band's signature blend of rock and pop. It features a prominent synthesizer riff and the powerful vocals of Steve Perry, both of which were hallmarks of Journey's music.
Co-Writing: The song was co-written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, who were all key members of the band at the time. Their collaborative songwriting efforts helped shape Journey's sound during the 1980s.
Use in Pop Culture: "Separate Ways" has been featured in various films, TV shows, and video games, contributing to its enduring popularity. It can be heard in movies like "Tron: Legacy" and "Bobby." The song's inclusion in these media has introduced it to new generations of listeners.
Live Performances: "Separate Ways" remains a fan favorite at Journey's live concerts. The band has continued to perform it in their setlists over the years, and it's often a highlight of their shows.
Journey's Legacy: "Separate Ways" is one of the many hit songs that have contributed to Journey's enduring legacy as a classic rock band. The group's success and influence in the rock genre during the 1980s are closely tied to songs like this one.
Memorable Lyrics: The song's lyrics reflect themes of love and separation, which are common themes in many of Journey's songs. The chorus, "Someday love will find you / Break those chains that bind you," has become iconic.
Despite the humorous aspects of its music video, "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" remains an essential part of Journey's catalog and a beloved song by fans of the band.