Escape

Several songs emerged from this work that resonated strongly. "Don't Stop Believin'" became an anthem, reaching number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. Along with it, "Who's Crying Now" reached number 4, "Still They Ride" number 19, and "Open Arms" number 2. "Stone in Love" also earned a permanent spot on rock radio. The impact of Escape was such that, in July 2021, it was certified as a Diamond album in the United States for selling over ten million units, solidifying it as the band's most successful studio album.

The critical reception of Escape had its nuances. While some contemporary reviews, such as Deborah Frost's for Rolling Stone in 1981, described it unfavorably, the perspective has changed over time. Retrospective reviews, like Mike DeGagne's in AllMusic, awarded it four and a half stars, highlighting the longevity of its tracks and how they evoke feelings of youthful romance and rebellion, supported by solid songwriting and careful musical execution. Even publications like Kerrang! and Classic Rock have recognized it in polls as one of the best AOR and rock albums of all time. As a curious fact, in 1982, a video game for Atari 2600 inspired by the album, called Journey Escape, was released.