According to various online reports, Journey’s lead singer, Arnel Pineda, faced significant criticism for his performance at Rock In Rio, prompting him to ask fans whether he should step down from the band. However, Journey guitarist Neal Schon has dismissed the backlash as exaggerated media hype, blaming another band for the situation.

Over the weekend, numerous headlines critiqued Pineda’s performance, claiming that fans were greatly disappointed. In response, Pineda posted on Facebook on September 22, saying: “i am offering you a chance now ( especially those who’s hated me and never liked me from the very beginning) to simply text GO or STAY right here.. and if GO reaches 1million… im stepping out for good..are you game folks? let’s start…” The reaction has been largely supportive, suggesting Pineda may remain with the band.

Schon later addressed the controversy on his Facebook page, labeling the headlines as “garbage fabricated bullsh*t about [Arnel Pineda].” His post included a video asking fans, “Does this look like nobody had a good time?”

In a follow-up post, Schon attributed the disappointing sound quality during the show to Avenged Sevenfold, claiming they limited Journey’s overall production. He stated, “This clip is from Rio, even though we found out much later that we got extremely limited by Avenged Sevenfold that means that hardly hardly any sound can get out of the PA to the audience. It’s a bullsh*t move. Check out the audience. They loved it the rest of its fabricated crap.”

As of now, Avenged Sevenfold has not responded to these accusations. It’s notable that one of the best-selling rock bands in history is blaming another prominent band for the difficulties encountered during their festival performance.