Jonathan Cain’s Surprise Visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Jonathan Cain, the renowned keyboardist and songwriter of the iconic rock band Journey, made a surprise visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. During his visit, Cain played a medley of Journey’s favorite songs on the grand piano from their commercial zenith, accompanied by exclusive photographs and video courtesy of the Rock Hall.
A Special Fan Fest Event
Cain’s appearance coincided with the return of his signature 1981 Yahama C7 piano, nicknamed the Whale, to the Rock Hall’s exhibit space. The piano has a rich history, having been used in numerous Journey concerts and recordings. Cain shared stories about the piano’s significance, stating, "It’s here because it served me well. We played many, many shows. This piano played for millions of people."
A special fan fest event is being held today at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, featuring Journey’s ongoing tour with Def Leppard and Cheap Trick. The event includes spotlighted artifacts, rock and roll trivia games, and unique photo opportunities.
The Whale’s History
Cain unveiled the Yahama C7 during Journey’s Escape tour, after carefully installing microphones inside to capture its rich sound on stage. The piano was with Cain for 35 years, having been used in the recording of all Journey’s 1980s albums, including Raised on Radio. Cain stated, "This piano was with me for 35 years. We made the very first live simulcast MTV show, Live From Houston, and that piano was centerstage. Steve Perry sang ‘Open Arms’ right next to it. I made all of the [’80s-era] Journey records with this piano, all the way up to Raised on Radio. This was in the studio. I wouldn’t play any other one."
How Much Did Jonathan Cain Pay for the Whale?
Cain purchased the piano back in 1981 for $12,500. Today, the same piano would cost $86,000 brand new. Cain painted the piano red to stand out more on stage, stating, "I can’t go on stage with a black piano. I’ll disappear. I’ll just be a floating head."
A Unique Connection
Cain’s connection to the piano is more than just professional; it’s personal. He said, "I wouldn’t play any other one. This piano has been my friend, my confidant, my partner in crime. We’ve made some amazing music together."
Jonathan Cain’s Surprise Rock Hall Visit
Watch Jonathan Cain play the Whale with Journey:
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How Much Did Jonathan Cain Pay for the Whale?
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Jonathan Cain’s Surprise Rock Hall Visit
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Conclusion
Jonathan Cain’s surprise visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame was a unique and memorable experience. The Whale, his signature piano, has played a significant role in Journey’s history, and its return to the Rock Hall’s exhibit space is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the Whale piano?
A: The Whale piano is Jonathan Cain’s signature instrument, having been used in numerous Journey concerts and recordings.
Q: How much did Jonathan Cain pay for the Whale piano?
A: Cain purchased the piano in 1981 for $12,500.
Q: Why did Jonathan Cain paint the piano red?
A: Cain painted the piano red to stand out more on stage, stating, "I can’t go on stage with a black piano. I’ll disappear. I’ll just be a floating head."
Q: What is the current value of the Whale piano?
A: The same piano would cost $86,000 brand new today.
Q: What is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s fan fest event featuring Journey’s ongoing tour with Def Leppard and Cheap Trick?
A: The event includes spotlighted artifacts, rock and roll trivia games, and unique photo opportunities.
Q: When is the fan fest event taking place?
A: The event is taking place today at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
