"Wasn't feeling well two songs in": Journey drummer Deen Castronovo rushed to hospital after medical emergency onstage

Journey drummer Deen Castronovo was hospitalized after experiencing a medical emergency during the band’s concert in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Thursday night.

Castronovo, a longtime member of the rock band, had only played two songs at the BOK Center when he started feeling ill and required assistance to get off the stage.

There was a break of around 20 minutes after which the band's technician stepped in to replace him.

On Oct. 9, a Journey representative confirmed the incident, saying Deen Castronovo was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. They stated that Deen Castronovo:

“wasn’t feeling well two songs in and was transported to the hospital to get checked out. The show was paused for about 20 minutes and the experienced drum tech filled in to finish the show.”

Keyboardist Jonathan Cain spoke to the audience as the members were leaving the stage during the disturbance.

Per the Tulsa World, Jonathan Cain mentioned that Deen Castronovo faced some problem, and they hoped the disturbance wouldn't be permanent.

“We’re going to see what happens as this progresses. It’s an unfortunate situation… We’re hoping it’s only a delay, but please — I’m sorry. Don’t worry… Have your prayers ready for Deen Castronovo, everybody. Thank you.”

The band eventually continued its performance with the drum technician stepping in to complete the show.

Journey’s farewell tour, Final Frontier

Deen Castronovo, 62, has been associated with Journey for decades, serving as the band’s drummer and contributing vocals. He first joined the group in 1998 and later returned in 2021 after a period away.

Journey, known for classic rock hits such as Don’t Stop Believin’, Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), and Faithfully, has continued touring with its longtime members.

Currently, Journey's 2026 tour lineup includes Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Arnel Pineda, Deen Castronovo, Jason Derlatka, and Todd Jensen.

The band’s tour, Final Frontier, which spans 60 cities, is its farewell to fans. Last year, Schon shared in a note that the tour is their “heartfelt” gratitude to their fans.

"This tour is our heartfelt thank you to the fans who’ve been with us every step of the way - through every song, every era, every high and low. We’re pulling out all the stops with a brand-new production - the hits, the deep cuts, the energy, the spectacle. It’s a full-circle celebration of the music that’s brought us all together.”

He continued:

"As its founding member, I carry the Journey torch to this day, wherever I go. The sentiment and spirit of the band will always remain.”

As of Friday, the band hadn’t released further information about Deen Castronovo’s health. His hospitalization followed the sudden interruption in Tulsa, with fans awaiting more details about his recovery.

The spokesperson didn’t provide details about his condition or disclose what caused the medical emergency.

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Meanwhile, on his Facebook page, a post reportedly acknowledged the drummer, saying:

“Thank you Tulsa OK for sticking with us. God bless Deen. … We pray.”

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