Catching up with Arnel Pineda

ARNEL Pineda. POCHOLO CONCEPCION

Arnel Pineda quietly flew back home recently, celebrating his 45th birthday on Sept. 5—the same day his second child, Thea, was baptized.

The Filipino frontman of American classic rock band Journey took the opportunity to bond with family and friends while on a short break after completing 25 shows of the group’s current North American tour.

The tour, which includes a few dates in Canada and Hawaii, resumed last Saturday in Michigan.

Pineda chatted with the Inquirer via e-mail before he boarded the plane back to the United States.

How long will the tour last and how’s your health?

I feel great, considering the long flight, just to be with family and friends again. My health is okay. I’ve been taking care of myself to keep up with the demands of the tour this year. It will last until Dec. 15.

Touring may not allow you to explore much of the places you visit. Which cities have impressed you so far?

That’s true, because all we do is go to the next destination as soon as we are done with the scheduled show. It’s all travel via bus and private planes. New York is very impressive, and this place called “The Gorge,” was breathtaking.

How do you fight boredom?

I’ve been watching this American TV (drama) series called “Breaking Bad.” It has a wonderful, unique story and lots of lessons to learn. I’ve seen four episodes. Now I’m watching “Damages.”

How hard is it to please a foreign audience?

This is my fourth year with Journey. I think more and more people, young and old, have come to love the things that I do with the band … Each show gets more crazy, in a positive way.

What new bands or artists have caught your attention lately?

Dead Sara (a band from Los Angeles), also Grace Potter and the Nocturnals (from Vermont, New England). They’re very good artists … with different styles but both musically captivating.

How’s your family?

I missed my family so much it felt like I was gone forever. Yes, my second child Thea was baptized last Sept. 5. It was also my birthday, so it was a double celebration.

What do you miss most about the Philippines when abroad?

Family, friends, the food, and my own music, which I’ve been working on. I’ve been recording my own stuff since last year and will continue to do so until it’s done. I will release it as soon as everything is finalized.

Do you still wear Doc Martens when performing with Journey?

Yes I do, they’re among my favorite things. They just never go out of style.