The Journey saga continues to unfold in the public eye, with band members once again trading accusations. Guitarist Neal Schon has taken to social media to address the latest lawsuit filed by keyboardist Jonathan Cain, who alleges “wasteful spending” by his bandmate. The controversy erupted when a fan publicly questioned rumors about Schon and his wife’s financial management within the band.
Before the guitarist could weigh in, another fan quickly defended him, dismissing the allegations as unfounded. This exchange highlights the growing divide between the two founding members and the intense scrutiny the band is facing.
Schon’s decision to respond publicly marks a new chapter in the ongoing feud, with fans eagerly awaiting his full statement and potential repercussions for the band’s future.
Neal Schon Fires Back at Cain
Schon has dismissed rumors about him and his wife mismanaging the band’s finances as “absolute rubbish”. Responding to a fan’s question on X, Schon clarified that the band’s trademark was acquired through significant personal investment and that the profits are equally divided among himself, Cain, and Arnel Pineda.
Schon further explained the band’s travel arrangements, stating that they have remained consistent for years, including Cain’s participation. He emphasized that the decision for Cain and his wife to choose a different mode of transportation was personal and that the rest of the band, crew, and security travel together on a chartered jet, a practice approved within the band’s budget.
The guitarist also highlighted his wife’s role in securing favorable accommodations for the band, a task he claimed has been part of their responsibilities for years.
Schon Accuses Cain of Breach of Agreement
Schon continued his defense by stating that he and his wife personally fund their travel upgrades, a practice approved by the band during official meetings. He emphasized that Cain had previously initiated legal action over this matter but later dropped the case with a mutual agreement not to revisit the issue.
“Well, here we are again,” Schon expressed frustration regarding Cain’s renewed lawsuit. He proposed a solution to the ongoing dispute, suggesting the use of a band-issued credit card instead of the personal one currently held by Cain, which allegedly accumulates rewards for the guitarist alone.
The guitarist’s statements paint a picture of a band divided by financial disagreements, with Schon presenting himself as the party seeking a resolution amidst the legal turmoil.
The Solution to the Problem, According to Schon
Schon offered a potential resolution to the band’s financial disputes, suggesting the elimination of the shared credit card and the implementation of individual payments for band members. He emphasized a preference for independent travel arrangements while maintaining the band’s performance schedule.
“Don’t believe all you read in the media,” Schon warned fans about the accuracy of the reported information. He portrayed the media coverage as biased and manipulative, opting to take a “higher road” in addressing the situation.
The legal battle between Schon and Cain escalated on July 30 when Cain filed a lawsuit accusing his bandmate of financial mismanagement. The keyboardist alleges excessive spending on credit cards, hotel accommodations, private jets, and security personnel, leading to financial strain and internal band tensions.
Read Schon’s lengthy X post below: