Journey Drummer Deen Castronovo Hospitalized After Medical Emergency On Stage
The veteran rock band continued their Oklahoma concert after a brief interruption with a fill-in drummer.
Journey drummer Deen Castronovo was taken to a hospital Thursday night after experiencing a medical emergency during a concert in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The incident occurred after the band had performed its second song at the BOK Center.
Band members announced the situation to the audience. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain informed the crowd that Castronovo had been taken to a hospital and asked for prayers for the 62-year-old musician. "It's an unfortunate situation. We're very sorry. We're hoping it's only a delay, but please — I'm sorry. Don't worry," Cain said, according to Tulsa World. "Have your prayers ready for Deen Castronovo, everybody."
Following a brief pause, guitarist Neal Schon returned to the stage to confirm Castronovo's hospitalization and announced that the show would resume after a 15-minute break. Castronovo's drum tech, Steve Toomey, stepped in to finish the performance. "He's very good," Schon said of Toomey. "We love you all. We're very sorry for the inconvenience."
According to Tulsa World, the band returned to the stage in about eight minutes. Lead vocalist Arnel Pineda again requested prayers for Castronovo. Later in the evening, Schon dedicated the concert to Castronovo, stating, "This concert is for Deen. I’d love you all to pray for him. Everybody’s been going through a lot." He added, "I think he's going to be fine."