During a recent NFL showdown between the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers, iconic rock band Journey found themselves at the center of controversy. The catalyst? A surprising alteration to the lyrics of their classic anthem ‘Don’t Stop Believin‘.’ In a move that left Detroit fans fuming, the band swapped out the familiar ‘Born and raised in South Detroit‘ for ‘Born and raised in San Francisco.’
The fallout unfolded on social media, transforming platforms into a battleground for disgruntled fans. Some Detroit Lions supporters, in a tongue-in-cheek manner, even playfully laid the blame for their team’s loss at Journey’s feet, with comments like: “Journey played at halftime of Lions-49ers and changed the lyrics… It’s probably Journey’s fault the Lions lost.”
Other fans were more direct in their criticism, labeling the lyric switch as ‘weak’ and expressing disbelief: “Journey changing the lyrics from South Detroit to San Francisco was weak as hell,” remarked one disgruntled listener.”
The controversial performance occurred at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, and showcased a four-song set by Journey, featuring hits like ‘Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),’ ‘Be Good To Yourself,’ ‘Any Way You Want It,’ and the contentious ‘Don’t Stop Believin’.’
Despite the lyric change, it appeared that much of the crowd, particularly Detroit fans, remained loyal to the original ‘South Detroit’ line, potentially overshadowing the band’s modified version.
Beyond the lyrical controversy, the NFL event boasted additional highlights, including pregame shows by Amp Squad DJs and singer Nate Smith. The national anthem was delivered by Puerto Rican pop sensation Luis Fonsi, accompanied by the San Francisco Police Department Color Guard team.
In other exciting developments, Journey is gearing up for a North American stadium tour in 2024 alongside Def Leppard. The 23-city tour, commencing in St. Louis and concluding in Denver, promises a stellar lineup with the Steve Miller Band as the opening act for most dates and alternating appearances by Cheap Trick and Heart. Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey!
Journey played at halftime of Lions-49ers and changed the lyrics to Don't Stop Believing — singing, "Just a city boy, born and raised in San Francisco"
It's probably Journey's fault the Lions lost. https://t.co/P7gtQ6Pcpu
— Derek Wallbank (@dwallbank) January 29, 2024
Journey changing the lyrics from South Detroit to San Francisco was weak as hell 😂
— Domenik (@therealiLL) January 29, 2024
What a fitting tribute to the NFC Champs considering the score, earlier! The Bay Area's Journey (with the Philippines' Arnel Pineda) singing "Don't Stop Believing" at the halftime? Yes! We did not stop believing! 🙏 #49ers vctto 1077thebone on IG pic.twitter.com/ofa0RD6bx6
— CallMeByMyRealName's Echo Chamber (@yesitisprecious) January 29, 2024
