A Finale That Left Fans in Shock
When The Sopranos ended in 2007, fans expected a grand conclusion. Instead, they got a blackout—literally. The screen cut to black just as Tony Soprano was about to take a bite of his onion rings. And playing in the background? Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’.
The abrupt ending sparked debates that continue to this day. But was Steve Perry, Journey’s legendary frontman, responsible for this divisive moment? Let’s break it down.
The Sopranos Finale: A Scene Frozen in Time
A Journey Song That Defined TV History
The final moments of The Sopranos are iconic: Tony Soprano sits with his family in a diner, the jukebox plays Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’, and then—nothing. Just a black screen.
David Chase, the show’s creator, left the ending open to interpretation. But Perry’s involvement in allowing the song to be used may have shaped the entire mood of the finale.
Why ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’?
Chase specifically wanted Don’t Stop Believin’ for the scene. But there was a problem—Steve Perry wasn’t convinced. He worried the song might be associated with something negative.
In an interview, Perry revealed that he only agreed to let the song be used after ensuring Tony Soprano wouldn’t die on-screen. This suggests that, in some way, Perry influenced the outcome—or at least the song choice.
Did Steve Perry Change The Sopranos’ Ending?
Steve Perry’s Hesitation
Perry initially resisted giving permission for Don’t Stop Believin’ to be used in The Sopranos. He feared that tying the song to the mafia drama might damage its uplifting message.
The Final Green Light
It wasn’t until Perry received confirmation that the scene wouldn’t explicitly show Tony’s death that he approved. This means if Perry had said no, the scene might have had a completely different tone—or even a different song.
Alternative Endings: What Could Have Been?
Other Songs Considered for the Finale
Before Perry gave his approval, other songs were considered, including:
- Al Green – “Love and Happiness”
- The Rolling Stones – “Paint It Black”
- Bob Dylan – “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door”
Each of these would have given the finale a different feel, but none matched the emotional weight of Don’t Stop Believin’.
Would the Ending Feel Different Without Journey?
Imagine the final scene without Don’t Stop Believin’. Would the controversy have been the same? Perhaps, but the emotional weight of the song’s lyrics, combined with the blackout, created a perfect storm of ambiguity.
The Symbolism of ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ in The Sopranos
Hope or Inevitable Doom?
The song’s lyrics talk about holding onto hope and pushing forward. But in The Sopranos, does it represent optimism, or is it ironic—mocking Tony’s false sense of security?
Does The Song Prove Tony Soprano Lived?
Some fans argue that since Perry only approved the song with the condition that Tony wouldn’t be seen dying, this is indirect proof that Tony survived the finale.
The Cultural Impact of The Sopranos Finale
A Scene That Changed Television Forever
Before The Sopranos, most TV finales wrapped things up neatly. But this one left everything open-ended, forcing viewers to debate and rewatch the final moments obsessively.
How Journey Benefited from The Sopranos Finale
Following the finale, Don’t Stop Believin’ saw a massive resurgence in popularity. The song became a stadium anthem, was used in multiple TV shows, and even reached new generations through Glee.
So, Was Steve Perry to Blame?
Did Perry’s Approval Shape the Scene?
While he didn’t decide how the show ended, Perry’s hesitation and eventual approval undeniably influenced the final product. If he had denied permission, the entire scene—and perhaps the controversy—might not exist as it does today.
The Real Mastermind: David Chase
Ultimately, David Chase orchestrated the ending. Perry’s involvement was crucial, but the ambiguous conclusion was always Chase’s vision.
Conclusion: A Perfectly Imperfect Ending
So, did Steve Perry ruin—or perfect—The Sopranos’ ending? While he didn’t write the script or make the final call, his influence is undeniable. The decision to use Don’t Stop Believin’ helped cement The Sopranos finale as one of the most talked-about TV moments ever.
Regardless of how you feel about it, one thing is clear: We’re all still talking about it, nearly two decades later. And that, in itself, is a testament to the power of a single song choice.
FAQs
1. Did Steve Perry actually have a say in The Sopranos ending?
Not directly, but he did have the power to deny permission for Don’t Stop Believin’. His approval influenced the scene’s mood and impact.
2. Would The Sopranos ending have been different with another song?
Most likely, yes. Don’t Stop Believin’ added a unique tension and emotional pull that no other song might have achieved.
3. Did David Chase ever confirm if Tony Soprano died?
No, Chase has remained intentionally vague, leaving it up to interpretation.
4. Why was Steve Perry hesitant to allow Journey’s song in the finale?
He worried about the song being linked to a dark moment, potentially harming its positive legacy.
5. Did The Sopranos ending help revive Journey’s popularity?
Absolutely! The finale brought Don’t Stop Believin’ back into mainstream culture, introducing it to new audiences and boosting its success.
Now, tell me—do you think Steve Perry’s involvement shaped TV history, or was it just a small piece of a much bigger puzzle? Drop your thoughts below! 🚀
