Journey Drummer Deen Castronovo Hospitalized During Tulsa Show
Journey drummer Deen Castronovo hospitalized after on-stage medical emergency in Tulsa. Bandmates urge prayers and continue show.
POLICY WIRE — Tulsa, Oklahoma — Journey drummer Deen Castronovo was rushed to the hospital during a Thursday night performance in Tulsa after experiencing a sudden medical emergency on stage.
The incident occurred after the band had played just two songs when Castronovo was removed from the stage. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain addressed the audience, expressing concern and asking for prayers for the bandmate’s recovery.
Cain stated, We’re going to see what happens as this progresses. It’s an unfortunate situation. We’re very sorry. We’re hoping it’s only a delay. He also urged fans to pray for Castronovo, adding, “Have your prayers ready for Deen Castronovo, everybody.”
Guitarist Neal Schon took the stage next and confirmed that Castronovo was being taken to the hospital. Schon, 72, said the show would continue with the drummer’s tech, Steve Toomey, stepping in temporarily. He asked the audience to give a warm welcome to Toomey and promised a return in about 15 minutes.
Lead singer Arnel Pineda then asked the crowd to pray for Castronovo, saying, “He’s gonna be fine. Too much Gatorade,” according to reports. Later in the show, Schon added, “This concert’s for Deen tonight. I’d love you all to pray for him. Everybody’s been going through a lot. I think he’s going to be fine.”
📄 POLICY WIRE WHITEPAPER PUBLISHED: PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY PRIORITIES
Journey is currently on the final stretch of its farewell tour, which will conclude with a homecoming concert in San Francisco in November. The band has already performed over 100 shows this year, often lasting more than two hours.
“Don’t Stop Believin’,” one of the band’s most iconic tracks, recently achieved 18-times platinum status in 2024. The song has seen multiple resurgences due to its appearances in TV shows like The Sopranos and Glee, as well as the film Moneyball.
Keyboardist Jonathan Cain described the song as a defining part of the band’s legacy, comparing it to “Hey Jude” for other artists. Every band wishes they had one and we have one. So, I guess that’s our ‘Hey Jude’ calling card. So we’ll take it, he said.
The current lineup includes singer Arnel Pineda, keyboardist Jason Derlatka, bassist Todd Jensen, and original members Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, and Deen Castronovo. The group often shares vocal duties, allowing Pineda a break on select songs.
Cain reflected on the band’s role in people’s lives, stating, I like to say Journey is certain music in uncertain times. Journey is a soundtrack to a lot of people’s lives.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
