In a new series USA TODAY’s The Essentials, celebrities share what fuels their lives whether it's at home, on the set or on the road.

Guitarist Neal Schon started making waves on his instrument as a Bay Area teen during the summer of love in 1968, and eventually joined Carlos Santana's band at 17 in 1971. He's never looked back.

Schon, who teamed up with Santana band colleagues and went on to found the radio-hit juggernaut Journey, is back on the road this summer hitting stadiums and arenas around the country along with '80s giants Def Leppard. Now 70, Schon seems more dialed in than ever.

"I love what I do. I'm in good health since I've been taking care of myself for the last 20 years, after a bunch of years doing everything you shouldn't be doing," Schon says with a laugh. "Besides, I like being involved in all the details of our tour. And the business people don't enjoy you as much when you're paying attention."

The road inevitably presents an array of challenges for all touring musicians, but combine a legendary band with the comforts that come with success and the months ahead promise to not be as hard as they once were. Schon shares with us some of his on-the-road rituals, his passion for guitars and the best way to travel.