REO Speedwagon’s Bruce Hall Reacts to Kevin Cronin’s Statement

The ailing dynamics within the legendary rock band REO Speedwagon have recently been brought to the forefront, igniting a wave of public intrigue. The band, formed in the late 1960s and known for selling over 40 million albums worldwide, decided to hold one last reunion concert. The event aimed to honor the band's home city of Champaign, Illinois, and commemorate departed members like Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin. However, the reunion has been overshadowed by controversy as former frontman Kevin Cronin expressed his dismay over his exclusion from the event. In a statement that has gained significant attention, Cronin revealed his feelings of being “deeply hurt” by not being included in the reunion show.

Bruce Hall, the band's longtime bassist, candidly addressed the situation, asserting that all former members, including Cronin, had been invited to participate. Hall emphasized the reunion's purpose was to allow original band members and founding fathers to come together one last time and celebrate their shared history. To further Hall's point, the concert's proceeds were designated for the REO Speedwagon fund benefiting GU Cancer Research at Moffitt Cancer Center, an institution that played a crucial role in saving Hall's son's life. Hall's response to Cronin's claims highlighted a different narrative, stating, “Kevin states he's been ‘falsely accused' of turning down the invitation. I truly hope he participates, even virtually.”

Yet for Cronin, a scheduling conflict with a tour involving Styx and Don Felder prevented his attendance. The singer expressed frustration over the chosen date for the reunion coinciding with his pre-booked tour commitments, a conflict he claims was manipulated in a manner that led to him being “knowingly excluded”.

This internal band strife has stirred interest and debate among fans and media alike, with numerous outlets reporting on the band’s apparent breakdown in communication. The event is seen as both a poignant farewell and a potentially healing opportunity to mend strained relationships within REO Speedwagon’s ranks. Despite differing statements, Hall and his fellow musicians remain hopeful that the reunion concert will not only celebrate their storied legacy but also act as a catalyst for reconciliation, underscoring the power of music to unite even amidst discord.