Neal Schon stated that Journey’s Deen Castronovo should be regarded as the greatest singing drummer.
Recently, Rock History on X listed the Top 20 drummers of all time according to ChatGPT, but Castronovo was not included. In response, Schon commented, “Add Deen Castronovo as the greatest singing drummer ever hands down.”
Castronovo was a member of Journey for 18 years, serving as the drummer and occasional lead vocalist. He played on six Journey albums and provided backup vocals for songs such as ‘Still They Ride’ and ‘Keep On Runnin’.’ In the studio, he also sang lead on a few tracks.
After being fired from Journey in 2015 due to a domestic violence arrest, Castronovo rejoined the band in 2021 as a second drummer. He became the sole drummer again in 2022.
Deen reunited with Schon for a benefit show in February 2018. He noted at the time, “Honestly, it’s an honor. To work with Journey at all was a blessing and a privilege and an honor. They did what they had to do, and I never fought them for that. That was the smart thing to do; that’s the business thing to do.”
Reflecting on his bond with Schon, he added, “But Neal and I have always been really close. Neal found me; he discovered me in a little rehearsal place in San Rafael. I’ve always been tight with him. Even when all this went down, he always checked on me… We’ve always kept in contact, so I’m very loyal to him.”
Castronovo continued, “Even though he had to do the tough love thing, he never gave up [on me]. I respect Neal for that. He’s my big brother, and I’d do anything for him… I always wanted to be in Journey. I had two bands I wanted to be in when I was young — KISS or Journey.”
He humorously added, “KISS, I look like crap in spandex, so we know that wasn’t going to happen. Journey was my [other dream], because I love Steve Perry, and I love what Smith brought to the table. To be able to fill that seat for 17 years was an honor. Now he’s back where he belongs. He needs to be there. That is his band. I warmed the seat, but that’s his gig. He deserves it. He’s original — he’s the best.”
Journey’s next concert is in Lincoln, California on December 28, followed by a performance in Nashville, Tennessee on March 12.
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