Drum Sheet – Journey – Ask The Lonely

“Ask the Lonely” by Journey is one of the band’s underrated gems, known for its soaring melodies, emotional depth, and powerful drumming. Released in 1983, the song was initially recorded for the band’s Frontiers album but was ultimately left off the final tracklist. Instead, it found its way onto the soundtrack of the movie Two of a Kind, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Despite not being part of a core studio album, Ask the Lonely became a fan favorite, particularly for its driving rhythm and impassioned vocal delivery by Steve Perry.

The songwriting process was led by Journey‘s core team—Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon. At the time, the band was at the peak of its success, experimenting with grand, anthemic rock sounds while still maintaining the soul and groove that defined their earlier work. The song was built around an intense rhythmic foundation, with Ross Valory’s bass locking tightly into the groove laid down by drummer Steve Smith.

For drum enthusiasts, Ask the Lonely is a showcase of Steve Smith’s impeccable technique. The song features a punchy, energetic beat with dynamic tom fills and crisp snare work that propel the track forward. Smith, known for his fusion influences, brings a refined yet hard-hitting approach, blending power and precision. His fills in the pre-choruses and transitions add a dramatic flair, while his steady groove anchors the song’s emotional weight. The combination of tight hi-hat work, syncopated kick patterns, and emphatic crashes make the drumming a standout feature.

Live, Ask the Lonely has been performed sporadically, though it remains a cherished deep cut among Journey fans. It was notably played during the band’s 1983-84 Frontiers Tour, a massive stadium run that saw Journey at their commercial zenith. The song’s energetic drumming translated well to live performances, giving Steve Smith moments to shine in an already powerhouse setlist. In later years, as Journey continued touring with different lineup changes, Ask the Lonely occasionally reappeared, often met with enthusiasm from longtime fans.

While it never reached the mainstream recognition of Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) or Faithfully, Ask the Lonely remains a hidden treasure in Journey’s catalog. For drummers, it serves as a masterclass in rock drumming—powerful, expressive, and always in service of the song’s soaring melodies.