KEVIN CRONIN: Why I Can’t Tour As REO SPEEDWAGON Anymore

Brotherhood of Rock: REO Speedwagon and Styx Revisit Classic Albums

This summer, rock music legends REO Speedwagon and Styx are uniting for a special tour experience dubbed “Brotherhood of Rock.” Led by the iconic voice of REO Speedwagon, Kevin Cronin, the tour promises an unforgettable journey back in time.

A Night of Iconic Albums

the tour features both bands performing their acclaimed albums in their entirety. REO speedwagon will revisit their groundbreaking 1980 smash hit, “Hi Infidelity,” while Styx will transport audiences back to 1977 with their timeless masterpiece, “The Grand Illusion.” This unique format offers fans a chance to experience these albums in a live setting, complete with all the original arrangements and energy.

From Vegas Residencies to nationwide Tour

The concept for “Brotherhood of Rock” originated from the success of both bands’ residencies at the Venetian Theater in Las Vegas. REO Speedwagon had performed their “Hi Infidelity” album multiple times during their residency, crafting a new, dynamic presentation for each show. Styx similarly staged an acclaimed “Grand Illusion” residency.

“Yeah,we’re both doing the whole albums,” Cronin revealed in an interview on the “Let There Be Talk” podcast with comedian Dean Delray. “Both REO and Styx have done several residencies at the Venetian theater in Vegas.And we did the ‘Hi Infidelity’ show three times, and we put together a whole new presentation for the residency, as did Styx for their ‘Grand Illusion’ residency. And so this summer we just thought, ‘You know what? Those shows did so well and people reacted so well to them…'”

Cronin continued, explaining the appeal of this format: “‘Cause you play the whole album and then you also do all the hits that people wanna do too.So it’s a cool thing and it’s unique as we’ve never done it — neither band has ever done it — anywhere else except in Vegas.”

The Enduring Appeal of Classic rock

The “Brotherhood of Rock” tour speaks to the enduring power of classic rock music. These albums,released decades ago,continue to resonate with fans of all ages. The live performance format amplifies their impact, creating a shared experience that transcends generations.

More Than Just a Concert

“Brotherhood of Rock” promises to be more than just a concert; it’s a party of rock music history. Fans can expect a night filled with nostalgia, high-energy performances, and the chance to experience these iconic albums in a whole new light.

Tickets and More Information: For tour dates, ticket availability, and further details, visit the official websites of REO Speedwagon and Styx.

REO Speedwagon’s Evolution: Navigating Change and Legacy

ROCK icon REO Speedwagon has weathered many changes over its illustrious 35-year career. From lineup shifts to evolving musical landscapes, the band has consistently adapted while staying true to its core identity. one such notable transition occurred in 2024, when longtime bassist Bruce Hall decided to step back from touring.

A Fork in the Road

This change prompted a significant shift in REO Speedwagon’s plans. Lead vocalist and founder Kevin Cronin explained, “And so we did it as REO SPEEDWAGON three times over the past year and a half, but that same band is gonna be touring this year as the KEVIN CRONIN BAND, because I’m not able to tour as REO SPEEDWAGON anymore.” The decision to form a new entity, The Kevin Cronin Band, stemmed from the band’s desire to continue making music while respecting Bruce’s health needs.

Health Challenges and Unexpected Solutions

Cronin elaborates on the health challenges that Bruce faced, stating, “Well [laughs], that’s a good question. And it’s a intricate question. God, it’s a tough one as our bass player, Bruce Hall, who, he and I worked together for almost 50 years. I was instrumental in getting him in the band. Any side project I ever did, Bruce was part of it. But over the past several years, things became a little bit of a struggle for us, just musically, personally and physically. And Bruce’s had back problems for a long time and it finally just gave out on him.”

Faced with this unexpected hurdle, Cronin and the band found a remarkable solution. “We just got lucky that elton John had retired, and our buddy Matt Bissonette, who had been with Elton for 12 years, was available. He came in with charts for every song,and within two days the charts where gone. He had the bass parts. Then he goes, ‘Teach me the harmony, the vocal harmonies.’ I’m, like, ‘Okay.’ I gave him all the harmony parts.And he’s just an amazing bass player, great singer, good dude, and the chemistry between Dave [Amato, guitar] and Bryan [Hitt, drums], who have been with me in REO SPEEDWAGON for 35-plus years, and Derek Hilland, who took over when Neal Doughty retired in late 2022, the five of us just — something happened, something magical happened.”

A journey to Unity

While Matt Bissonette filled the gap, bruce’s recovery proved more challenging than anticipated. Cronin reflects on the situation, saying “But Matt was subbing for Bruce, and Bruce was… His doctors told him he’d be ready on March 1st of 2024. And he wasn’t; he wasn’t there. And then it got pushed back to June 1st.And simultaneously occurring,I’m thinking by this time,… ”

Despite the unforeseen obstacles,REO Speedwagon’s story remains one of resilience and adaptation.The band continues to evolve,embracing change while honoring its rich musical legacy. This legacy is showcased in their upcoming tour, “Brotherhood of Rock,” which will feature both REO Speedwagon and Styx performing their iconic albums in their entirety. this unique event offers fans an unforgettable journey through the music that shaped a generation.

Be sure to catch this “Brotherhood of Rock” tour—a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll.

The Road Keeps Rolling: Kevin Cronin Embraces the Future of REO Speedwagon

For over four decades, REO Speedwagon has captivated audiences with their iconic blend of rock and roll energy. Leading the charge since the band’s inception has been Kevin Cronin,the powerhouse vocalist who has navigated both triumph and turbulence throughout their remarkable journey. Lately, the band has faced a unique challenge: the absence of founding member Bruce Hall, who has opted out of touring for health reasons and financial considerations. Cronin,ever the pragmatist and leader,adapted to the changing landscape,embracing a smaller lineup and ultimately forging a path to unprecedented success.

Success Amidst uncertainty

The 2024 tour, conducted with a five-piece lineup, became REO Speedwagon’s most accomplished in 35 years. “The band was just on fire, the crowds were crazy, and it became this just-good-vibes thing,” Cronin recalled, highlighting the palpable enthusiasm that fueled their performances. This unexpected surge in popularity rekindled a profound sense of purpose within the band. :

“My thing — I’m a lead singer of the band,” Cronin affirmed. “I didn’t run for office, but I became the leader of the band. I’m the guy who pulls it together. and so I just felt that band lifting me up in a way that I hadn’t felt in a long time.” Cronin’s leadership, honed through years of experience, proved instrumental in navigating the journey’s twists and turns.

The Unfinished Chapter

Despite the triumph of the 2024 tour, Bruce Hall’s future with the band remains uncertain.”Bruce was never fired. I don’t have the right to fire him,” Cronin clarified, dispelling rumors that have circulated online. He further explained the situation, stating,” There were a couple of demands that one of them it would have been irresponsible for me to go along with, and the other one, it was _unfeasible_ for me to go along with. And so we just hit a stalemate.” Cronin’s words highlight the complex interplay of personal aspirations and the band’s legacy, a delicate balance that frequently enough arises in long-standing musical partnerships.

REO speedwagon possesses a unique structure with a retirement clause for founding members,adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Cronin’s statement, “REO Speedwagon’s is, like, if there’s two guys in a band who…” abruptly cuts off, hinting at the intricate dynamics at play. The future of the band hinges on finding a solution that respects both individual desires and the enduring legacy they have built together.

A Legacy of Endurance

While the path ahead remains somewhat unclear, REO Speedwagon’s enduring appeal is undeniable. Their music has resonated with generations of fans, and their story serves as a testament to the enduring power of music. Through resilience, adaptation, and a commitment to their art, they have proven their ability to evolve and remain relevant in a constantly changing musical landscape. The road keeps rolling for REO Speedwagon, and provided that there are passionate fans eager to sing along, their journey will continue to inspire.

REO Speedwagon’s Uncertain Future: an Interview with Kevin Cronin

Rock legends REO Speedwagon have captivated audiences for decades. Recently, though, internal conflicts within the band have cast uncertainty on its future. Founding member and iconic vocalist, Kevin Cronin, took time to discuss the ongoing situation surrounding the band’s name and upcoming tour.

The Heart of the Matter

Internal disagreements regarding the band’s name have resulted in a split. Cronin maintains that he has not officially departed REO Speedwagon, stating, “I never quit REO Speedwagon. I never will quit the band. I just got outvoted and… have to stop calling it REO Speedwagon.”

Cronin clarifies this “outvote” refers to a 2-1 decision made by fellow band members Bruce Hall and Neal Doughty. Despite this setback, Cronin remains resolute, stating, “I’m not going out there and singing a solo album worth of songs. I’m singing the songs that I wrote for REO Speedwagon and the songs that Gary [Richrath] and I worked on together with REO Speedwagon.”

A Legacy of Collaboration and Caring

Cronin’s unwavering dedication to the band’s legacy is evident in his highly anticipated new venture,the Kevin Cronin Band,promising a classic REO Speedwagon experience.further solidifying Cronin’s commitment to collaboration, the Kevin Cronin Band is embarking on the “Brotherhood Of rock” tour alongside iconic rock band Styx.

This partnership is not new. Styx and REO Speedwagon first joined forces in 2000.after the tragic events of 9/11, they established Rock To The Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting local charities. This initiative continues to inspire, touching lives at every stop on Styx’s ongoing tour, reinforcing the bond between these legendary acts.

Tickets and More

Fans eager to witness the magic of “Brotherhood Of Rock” can purchase tickets through LiveNation.com. For a truly immersive experience, VIP packages are available through StyxWorld.com, KevinCronin.com, and LiveNation.com. Citi serves as the official card sponsor for this unforgettable musical extravaganza.

What Do You Think About Kevin Cronin’s Decision?

Kevin Cronin’s dedication to his music and connection with fans demonstrate the enduring spirit of REO Speedwagon. Through his new venture, the “Brotherhood Of Rock” tour, and ongoing charitable endeavors, Cronin proves that the journey continues. What are your thoughts on Cronin’s decision to preserve the legacy of REO Speedwagon’s music?

A Shifting Chapter for REO Speedwagon

The legendary rock band REO Speedwagon finds itself at a crossroads. Following a public dispute over the band’s direction,founding member Kevin Cronin has embarked on a new path,leading a band named “The Kevin Cronin Band” while continuing to perform REO speedwagon’s iconic hits.

Navigating Disagreements and Artistic Visions

“It’s been a arduous time for everyone involved. to say it’s amicable would be a lie. Ultimately, it came down to a disagreement on the direction of the band. Bruce and Neal wanted to move in a different musical direction, and I…well, I felt strongly that my vision for REO Speedwagon was a different path,” Cronin explained in a recent interview.

A New Chapter for REO Speedwagon

While Cronin maintains he never officially quit the band, the future of REO Speedwagon remains uncertain. “That’s the million-dollar question,” Cronin admitted. “Right now, I’m simply focusing on what I can control: continuing to perform the music that fans love.”

Rekindling the “Brotherhood of Rock”

In a surprising twist, Cronin will be joining forces with fellow rock legends Styx on a co-headlining tour titled “Brotherhood of Rock.” The collaboration stems from a long-held friendship and a shared commitment to musical excellence. “Styx has always been a band we’ve respected deeply, both as musicians and as friends. our connection goes back to the early 2000s. after September 11th, we joined forces to create Rock to The Rescue, and we’ve been trying to find a way to bring our bands together ever since,” Cronin shared.

optimism for the Future of Music

Despite the challenges, Cronin remains optimistic about the future of music and his own career. “Through it all, I’ve realized how much I love making music and performing for audiences. The music is what brought us together in the first place, and it’s what will keep us connected.”

This new chapter for Kevin Cronin and REO Speedwagon raises questions about the future of the band’s legacy. Will Cronin’s new venture capture the hearts of existing fans while attracting a new generation? Only time will tell.

What are yoru thoughts on Kevin Cronin’s decision too preserve the legacy of REO Speedwagon’s music?

REO Speedwagon’s Uncertain Future: An Interview With kevin Cronin

Rock legends REO Speedwagon have captivated audiences for decades. Recently, though, internal conflicts within the band have cast uncertainty on its future. Founding member and iconic vocalist, Kevin Cronin, took time to discuss the ongoing situation surrounding the band’s name and upcoming tour.

the Heart of the Matter

Internal disagreements regarding the band’s name have resulted in a split. Cronin maintains that he has not officially departed REO Speedwagon, stating, “I never quit REO Speedwagon. I never will quit the band. I just got outvoted and … have to stop calling it REO Speedwagon.”

cronin clarifies this “outvote” refers to a 2-1 decision made by fellow band members Bruce Hall and Neal Doughty. Despite this setback, Cronin remains resolute, stating, “I’m not going out there and singing a solo album worth of songs. I’m singing the songs that I wrote for REO Speedwagon and the songs that Gary [Richrath] and I worked on together with REO Speedwagon.”

A Legacy of Collaboration and Caring

cronin’s unwavering dedication to the band’s legacy is evident in his highly anticipated new venture, “The Kevin Cronin Band,” promising a classic REO Speedwagon experiance. Further solidifying Cronin’s commitment to collaboration, “The Kevin Cronin Band” is embarking on the “Brotherhood Of Rock” tour alongside iconic rock band Styx.

This partnership is not new. Styx and REO Speedwagon first joined forces in 2000. After the tragic events of 9/11, they established Rock To The Rescue, a non-profit association dedicated to supporting local charities. This initiative continues to inspire, touching lives at every stop on Styx’s ongoing tour, reinforcing the bond between these legendary acts.

Tickets and More

Fans eager to witness the magic of “Brotherhood Of Rock” can purchase tickets through LiveNation.com. For a truly immersive experience, VIP packages are available through StyxWorld.com, kevincronin.com, and LiveNation.com. Citi serves as the official card sponsor for this unforgettable musical extravaganza.

What Do You Think About Kevin Cronin’s Decision?

Kevin Cronin’s dedication to his music and connection with fans demonstrate the enduring spirit of REO Speedwagon. Through his new venture, “The Kevin Cronin Band,” the “Brotherhood Of Rock” tour, and ongoing charitable endeavors, Cronin proves that the journey continues. What are your thoughts on Cronin’s decision to preserve the legacy of REO Speedwagon’s music?