AceShowbiz - The iconic rock band Journey has announced a major expansion to their ongoing Final Frontier farewell tour, adding 40 additional North American dates to their schedule in 2026. This new leg of the tour is set to begin on September 12 in Los Angeles and conclude on November 28 in San Francisco, extending their farewell journey well into the fall season.

Neal Schon, the band's founder and guitarist, shared his enthusiasm about the tour’s reception so far, stating, The energy has been incredible every night. He expressed his excitement to bring the tour to even more cities, highlighting the powerful connection between the band and their fans as audiences continue to sing along to their classic hits after all these years.

Unlike many of their previous tours, Journey is performing without any opening acts, which allows them to deliver an extended setlist. Their performances feature a blend of their biggest hits such as "Lights," "Faithfully," "Any Way You Want It," and "Don't Stop Believin'," alongside deeper cuts like "Dead or Alive," "Chain Reaction," and "Suzanne." They are even including a track from their 1975 self-titled debut album, "Of a Lifetime," adding a nostalgic touch to the shows.

Frontman Arnel Pineda described the atmosphere at each concert as celebratory, saying that every night feels like a special event. He expressed excitement about sharing this experience with an expanded audience during the new dates added to the tour.

However, the tour has faced challenges behind the scenes. Prior to the tour’s launch, Pineda revealed in an interview that personal issues almost led him to leave the band. He recounted a moment in 2024 when he told the band, "If you're planning to do a farewell tour, you better tell me, because my issues and my personal problems are getting more intense, and I don't know if I want to go with you." He admitted to considering retirement due to these struggles, but said the band did not respond immediately, likely because they did not want to search for a new lead singer.

Schon acknowledged the complexity of the situation, describing it as confusing. He explained that Pineda sent numerous messages expressing his overwhelm but emphasized that the band members had all signed contracts. Schon conveyed his readiness for the next two years of touring and his determination to persevere through any difficulties that arise, hoping Pineda’s situation improves.

Despite these internal difficulties, the band continues to perform united onstage, delivering powerful shows night after night. Before wrapping up in 2026, they will have toured extensively across the United States, with plans for additional dates scheduled in 2027. At this time, the location of the tour’s final show remains undecided.

Looking ahead, Pineda shared a heartfelt wish he holds for the farewell tour: the possibility of an appearance by former lead singer Steve Perry. He described this as a personal hope, explaining that even if Perry doesn’t sing, just seeing him take a bow with the band would be an extraordinary moment. However, he also respects Perry’s decision if he chooses not to participate.

With the tour continuing to draw enthusiastic crowds and the band committed to finishing strong, the Final Frontier farewell tour is poised to be a memorable closing chapter for Journey as they celebrate their enduring legacy in rock music.