The meaning of Second Hand News by Journey

Journey's song "Second Hand News" is a standout track from their 1982 album "Escape". The song tells the story of a person who has been left behind, hearing about someone else's exciting experiences through second-hand sources.

The lyrics are a poignant exploration of the pain of being left out. The narrator sings about how they're forced to live vicariously through others, hearing about their friends' adventures and romances through gossip and rumors. "I got a bad reputation / 'Cause I tell tales out of school" - the narrator laments, acknowledging that they've become a conduit for other people's stories because nobody wants to share their own news with them.

The song features Steve Perry's soaring vocals and a memorable guitar riff, which adds to the song's emotional impact. "I'm just a second-hand news / Trying to make it through" - Perry belts out, conveying the sense of longing and isolation that pervades the song.

Despite its melancholic tone, "Second Hand News" is a testament to Journey's ability to craft songs that capture the complexities of human emotions. The song has become a fan favorite and is often included in lists of the band's greatest hits. For those who have ever felt left out or like they're living someone else's life, "Second Hand News" is a relatable and cathartic listen.

The song's themes of isolation and longing are timeless, making it a staple of Journey's live shows to this day. When Perry belts out the chorus, "Don't you know I'm only second-hand news?", it's as if he's speaking directly to the audience - a reminder that we're all in this together, even when we feel like we're on the outside looking in.