Alan Gratzer, REO's drummer, stares at Doughty in disbelief. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. Epic Records signed the band to a recording contract in 1971. [4] The band also briefly added saxophonist Joe McCabe and trumpeter Marty Shepard to its lineup in 1968. To properly celebrate such a momentous, golden milestone in the history of the band, Styxworld speaks exclusively to co-founding members James JY Young and Chuck Panozzo as well as guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw, keyboardist/vocalist Lawrence Gowan, drummer Todd Sucherman, bassist/vocalist Ricky Phillips, and . It was a night for the ages.Read More: Gary Richrath, Former REO Speedwagon Guitarist, Dies at 65 | http://ultimateclassicrock.com/gary-richrath-dies/?trackback=tsmclipTribute tweets for Richrath started posting almost immediately. Doughty eventually began sitting in on few songs. REO Speedwagon (originally styled as R.E.O. [1] Matt left early the next year after graduating from school, with Terry Luttrell taking his place on lead vocals. So if you are going to see them live, there are now no founding members in the band. The St. Louis, Missouri-based radio station KSHE, one of America's most influential rock stations, began supporting it, elevating the band's profile outside its Midwestern stronghold. Gregg Philbin, the former REO Speedwagon bassist, died earlier this week, the band announced. rip gary-Reo Speedwagon guitarist Gary Richrath has died, the band announced on its website and Facebook page Sunday. He was 65. Formed in 1967, the group originally included drummer and backing vocalist Alan Gratzer, guitarist and lead vocalist Joe Matt, bassist and lead vocalist Mike Blair, and keyboardist Neal Doughty. \"Gary was both a unique guitarist and songwriter, and the embodiment of the tough guy with a heart of gold.\"He said he learned most of what he knows about being in a rock band from Richrath.\"The entire REO Family mourns his death and shares in the grief of his family, friends, and fans,\" he added. [7] Mike Murphy took over and recorded Ridin' the Storm Out, Lost in a Dream and This Time We Mean It, but was replaced by a returning Cronin in 1976. Erik Stein confirmed on Monday that Richrath passed away but offered no details about the cause of death. Issued at the tail end of 1980, it became one of 1981's biggest albums -- spawning one of the best-known power ballads of all time, "Keep on Loving You," as well as such popular rock radio hits as "Don't Let Him Go" and "Take It on the Run." This is the lineup featured on the quintet's 1971 self-titled debut recording for Epic Records. [18], The band performed with Pitbull the song "Messin' Around" live on the ABC TV show Greatest Hits in 2016; that version of the song was also released as a single on iTunes. They continued to perform cover songs in campus bars, fraternity parties, and university events. 2023 American Profile, All Rights Reserved. Moreover, is the lead singer of REO Speedwagon married? 2023 FOX News Network, LLC. is a cover of. Hi Infidelity sold over 10 million copies. [5] In early 1972, shortly after the release of the band's self-titled debut album, Luttrell left REO Speedwagon following a disagreement with Richrath. ", "Miles Joseph Obituary (2013) - Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles Times", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=List_of_REO_Speedwagon_members&oldid=1141115861, Gary Richrath guitar, backing and lead vocals, Gary Richrath lead guitar, lead and backing vocals. The cause of death was not given. REO Speedwagon resumes its tour on Nov. 2 and has dates planned through March. The debut failed to break REO through to the mainstream, and the band's future was thrust into uncertainty shortly thereafter when Luttrell left the group. Crownover played guitar for the group until mid-1969 when Bill Fiorio replaced him. [10], The band's lineup remained stable thereafter for more than ten years until Gratzer decided to retire in 1988, with Graham Lear brought in as his replacement. Murphy stayed on for two more albums, Lost in a Dream and This Time We Mean It, before Cronin returned to the fold in January 1976 and recorded R.E.O., which was released that same year. Gary was both a unique guitarist and songwriter, and the embodiment of the tough guy with a heart of gold. REO Speedwagon continued to tour in the back half of the 2010s, often teaming up on bills featuring Styx and Chicago. Original bassist Gregg Philbin died on October 24, 2022 at the age of 75. The band announced the unfortunate news on Monday (October 24). For Parade, it came down to sound, influence on the genre and cultural impact. 29. [15] Since the end of Harms's brief tenure with the group, REO Speedwagon has retained a consistent lineup of Neal Doughty, Kevin Cronin, Dave Amato, Bruce Hall, and Bryan Hitt[16] until 2023 when Doughty was replaced by former Iron Butterfly and Whitesnake member Derek Hilland.[17]. He was 65.Band frontman Kevin Cronin said in a message that \"my longtime friend and collaborator Gary Richrath passed away earlier (Sunday).\" He did not disclose a cause of death.\"I feel so sad,\" Cronin wrote. The band also briefly added saxophonist Joe McCabe and trumpeter Marty Shepard to its lineup in 1968. [8] On July 13, on the way to a show in Milwaukee, the band made a stop in Philadelphia to play at the US leg of Live Aid, which broke a record for number of viewers. 66 located in Joliet, Illinois. [3] Blair left a few months after Matt, with Gregg Philbin taking his place. Early life [ edit] Richrath was born in Peoria, Illinois, on October 18, 1949, to Curtis and Eunice Richrath, [1] and grew up in East Peoria, Illinois. They perform about 100 dates a year. Sat, Mar 18, 2023 8:00 PM When that label went bankrupt, the album was released on Castle Records, which also experienced financial troubles. REO Speedwagon continued to tour in the back half of the 2010s, often teaming up on bills featuring Styx and Chicago. Gregg Philbin, REO Speedwagon Legend, Has Died, Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl Barbecues Overnight for 450 Homeless People at LA Shelter, Singer Ben Kweller's 16-Year-Old Son Dies in Car Accident, Ozzy Osbourne 'Not Dying,' Hopes to Resume Touring, Shawn Mendes Sparks Romance Rumor With Fellow Pop Star, 'American Idol': Katy Perry Breaks Down Over School Shooting Survivor's Audition, Blake Shelton Reveals Reason Behind 'The Voice' Exit. 'Wheel of Fortune' contestant scolded by Pat Sajak, ripped apart by fans, Jillian Michaels suffered a spinal injury in secret that left her crawling due to pain, 'Friends' star Courteney Cox almost left Hollywood in the '80s, father told her it was 'time to pack it in', Ed Sheerans wife diagnosed with tumor during pregnancy: Spiraling through depression, Prince Harry describes the rest of his life in five words amid 'Spare' fallout: 'Freedom', Chris Rock plans to address Will Smith Oscar slap in live Netflix special. Formed in 1966, the band cultivated a following during the 1970s and achieved significant commercial success throughout the 1980s. Click on the links for REO Speedwagon 2023 Tickets! REO Speedwagon is an American hard rock band from Champaign, Illinois. Although the rest of the band's lineup remained stable, REO Speedwagon switched lead vocalists three times for their first three albums. What makes the greatest rock bands ever? Speedwagon, was released on Epic Records in 1971. #34).[3]. Accident and Injury Attorneys. REO Speedwagon (originally stylized as R.E.O. What happened to the lead singer of REO Speedwagon? The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken. After graduation, the group signed on with then-unknown manager Irving Azoff (who would later guide the careers of such multi-platinum acts as the Eagles and Steely Dan), which led to the outfit building a devoted following in the Midwest due to nonstop touring. REO Speedwagon performing live in 2010 (top) and 2016 (bottom). Those members include Kevin Cronin (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), Bruce Hall (bass) and Neal Doughty (keyboards). 1 hits Keep on Loving You and Cant Fight This Feeling., Celebrity Q&A, Featured Article, Where Are They Now, https://americanprofile.com/articles/where-are-they-now-reo-speedwagon-video/, https://americanprofile.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/reo-speedwagon-150x150.jpg. The band REO Speedwagon, which originated in Champaign, Illinois, in 1967, consists of original member Neal Doughty, 67; Kevin Cronin and Bruce Hall, who joined in the 1970s; and Dave Amato and Brian Hitt, who came aboard in 1989. Currently, there are 3 original members of REO Speedwagon that are still in the band. Hard-working and hard-rocking band from the Illinois heartland who morphed into million-selling power balladeers by the '80s. Back up singers Carla Day and Melanie Jackson were also added. The Ultimate Guideto Choose The Right Guitar Slide, The Ultimate Guide to Choose Guitar Picks. Even though I didn't know Gregg the way that Neal, Alan, Gary, and Kevin did, I always admired him and valued his friendship. Hi Infidelity received a diamond certification from the RIAA in 2017. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. Lear had already been invited to join REO in September 1988 as Gratzer's successor and Joseph was brought in as a temporary stand-in for Richrath. [22] REO and Chicago teamed up once again in the summer of 2018 for a 30-city tour. Gary Richrath, the REO Speedwagon guitarist who wrote some of the bands biggest hits, including Take It on the Run and In Your Letter, died Sunday, according to a post by REO lead singer Kevin Cronin. With Neal's retirement from touring being announced in January 2023, Derek Hilland has been filling-in for Neal live since January 2023. REO Speedwagon toured the US in 1985, including a sold-out concert in Madison, Wisconsin in May. Doughty landed a summer job and bought his first. (non touring 2023present) (founding member), Last edited on 23 February 2023, at 12:29, The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken, You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can't Tuna Fish, Not So Silent Night Christmas with REO Speedwagon, "REO's Neal Doughty: Back on the Road Again", "Now It's Cheat to the Beat, as Reo Speedwagon Finally Arrives with 'hi Infidelity', "A Chat with Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon", "REO Speedwagon Guitarist Dave Amato on His New Gibson Custom", "Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon Talks About His Classic Hits and His Songwriting", "25 Years Ago: REO Speedwagon Regroup with 'The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken', "REO SPEEDWAGON Announces DEREK HILLAND As New Keyboardist", "Bruce Hall of REO Speedwagon - Official page", "Interview: Guitarist Dave Amato Talks Les Pauls, Touring and REO Speedwagon", "REO Speedwagon hometown, lineup, biography", "50 Years Later, REO Speedwagon Keeps On Rollin', "How REO Speedwagon Got Their Name | 80s Music Blog", "FIVE YEARS GONE: REO SPEEDWAGON'S GARY RICHRATH REMEMBERED", "Who was the original lead singer of REO Speedwagon? The group had a more progressive rock sound for its first six albums and did not find commercial success until they released their first live album. Butter, (the bass guitar which Gregg played), has been with me for over fifty years, and I have always felt such pride and happiness in knowing that I bought that bass from Gregg. REO Speedwagon Hartman Arena Valley Center, Kansas. Gary Richrath, songwriter and lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon for decades, has died, the band announced on its Facebook page Sunday. Market data provided by Factset. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, Epic agreed to let them produce the band's first live album, Live: You Get What You Play For, which was eventually certified platinum. Speedwagon), or simply REO, is an American rock band from Champaign, Illinois. They perform about 100 dates a year. michael jordan golf career. Singer Kevin Cronin paid tribute to his former bandmate in a statement shared by the band. Who are the original members of REO Speedwagon? He sang a sampling of REO's hits with the show's singing finalists. The cause of death was not given. "I never quite compared us to the Osmonds. [6] Philbin was replaced by another Centennial High School (in Champaign, Illinois) alumnus, Bruce Hall,[2] to record You Can Tune a Piano but You Can't Tuna Fish. From around July 2005 until around September 2017, Gratzer made occasional live guest performances, playing percussion only. "When Gregg left the band in 1977, he took with him the prog-leaning extended instrumental section aspect of the REO sound," Cronin wrote. [7] Mike Murphy took over and recorded Ridin' the Storm Out, Lost in a Dream and This Time We Mean It, but was replaced by a returning Cronin in 1976. [1] Gary Richrath, a former guitarist for the classic rock band REO Speedwagon who also co-wrote the group's hit song "Take It on the Run," died Sunday, according to a publicist for the band. Rest In Peace 'Regis,' and say hi to Gary for me.". REO Speedwagon (originally stylized as R.E.O. before leaving during sessions for the 1973 follow-up. REO once again teamed with Styx in 2003 for the Classic Rock's Main Event tour which also included another band from their common rock era, Journey. REO Speedwagon continued to score further hit albums (1982's Good Trouble, 1984's Wheels Are Turnin') and singles ("Keep the Fire Burnin'," the number one hit power ballad "Can't Fight This Feeling," etc. In 2021, REO Speedwagon was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Rt. He was a member of the band when it released its self-titled debut in 1971 and was with REO Speedwagon until 1989. He was replaced by Bruce Hall, who has been a member of the band ever since. He was also the bassist on their first major success, the 1977 live double album, Live: You Get What You Pay For. [1] Although Philbin left the band just before they reached the heights of their commercial success, lead singer Kevin Cronin wrote that no one should forget his contribution to REO Speedwagon's sound. Brian Hitt (drums) joined the band in 1990. They needed a bassist who played a "more traditional role of locking with the drums," which was not Philbin's style. Richrath was a Peoria, Illinois-based guitarist and prolific songwriter who brought fresh original compositions. New Buffalo, MI. Market data provided by Factset. [12][13] Also in 1989, Bryan Hitt replaced Lear on drums,[14] while Jesse Harms joined as a second keyboardist, performing on the band's 1990 album The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken. REO Speedwagon was formed in 1967 in Champaign, Illinois. All rights reserved. Vannelli also performed additional piano, Hammond organ, and synthesizer on the 2007 album. Gary Richrath, lead guitarist from REO Speedwagon until 1989, has died at age 65. . Today is a sad day in REO World. Richrath was born in October 1949, according to public records. He then joined REO once again in Los Angeles in May 2000 for the same encore but no serious plans for a reunion ever materialized. [3] Cronin recorded one album with the band, 1972's R.E.O./T.W.O. The group's best-selling album, Hi Infidelity (1980), contained four US top 40 hits and sold more than 10 million copies. On his first night of classes, he met fellow student Alan Gratzer. They performed "Can't Fight This Feeling" and "Roll with the Changes" which featured members of the Beach Boys, the band members' families, and Paul Shaffer on stage for backing vocals. Additionally, further in-concert releases cropped up -- Live: Plus, Extended Versions, and a 2001 live set, Arch Allies: Live at Riverport, split 50/50 between REO and touring mates Styx. In early 1989, Gary Richrath was fired after tensions between him and Kevin Cronin boiled over. REO Speedwagon is an American hard rock band from Champaign, Illinois. Learn how and when to remove this template message, Centennial High School (in Champaign, Illinois), You Can Tune a Piano but You Can't Tuna Fish, The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken, Not So Silent NightChristmas with REO Speedwagon, You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can't Tuna Fish, Not So Silent Night Christmas with REO Speedwagon, List of artists who reached number one in the United States, "Now It's Cheat to the Beat, as Reo Speedwagon Finally Arrives with 'Hi Infidelity', "REO Speedwagon Will Dedicate Every Show to Late Guitarist Gary Richrath 'Probably Forever', "REO Speedwagon's Kevin Cronin on Louisville, power ballads and if my wife's a slut", "Styx, REO Speedwagon Team Up For "Rockin'" Tour, Single", "REO Speedwagon Plans 'Hi Infidelty' 30th Anniversary Reissue, Tour", "Live Nation Announces REO Speedwagon And Chicago Summer Tour", "Def Leppard Announce Summer Tour With REO Speedwagon and Tesla", "UK TOUR WITH STATUS QUO & THE LOUNGE KITTENS ANNOUNCED", "Styx, REO Speedwagon, Don Felder Ready for 'United We Rock' U.S. Tour, Starting June 20th", "REO Speedwagon's 'Hi Infidelity' receives 10X Diamond Award", "Chicago and REO Speedwagon Announce Co-Headlining Summer Tour", "REO Speedwagon drive back into the charts thanks to Ozark appearance", "Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66", "live at the Hammersmith Odeon, London, UK", "REO Speedwagon with Larry the Cable Guy Roll with the Changes", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=REO_Speedwagon&oldid=1142197786, Alan Gratzer drums, percussion, backing vocals, Gregg Philbin bass guitar, backing vocals, Mike Murphy lead vocals, occasional rhythm guitar, Melanie Jackson-Cracchiolo backing vocals, Derek Hilland keyboards, organ, piano, synthesizer, backing vocals, John Aldridge percussion, occasional drums, This page was last edited on 1 March 2023, at 01:35. Since 1995, the label has released over a dozen compilation albums featuring greatest hits, including 1999's The Ballads which features two new songs: "Just for You" (Cronin and Jim Peterik) and "Till The River's Run Dry" (Cronin). Formed in 1967, the group originally included guitarist and lead vocalist Joe Matt, bassist and backing vocalist Mike Blair, keyboardist Neal Doughty and drummer Alan Gratzer. Further underappreciated studio releases followed, such as 1990's The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken and 1996's Building the Bridge. [12], In November 2009, REO Speedwagon released a Christmas album, Not So Silent NightChristmas with REO Speedwagon. Over the course of its career, the . If music and guitar has never been part of your interests then this site may change your view and be a music lover. Hard-working and hard-rocking band from the Illinois heartland who morphed into million-selling power balladeers by the '80s. REO Speedwagon Orpheum Theatre Sioux City, Iowa. Who gives the best guitar lessons on YouTube? This lineup also released an unabashed record of Christmas songs in 2009, titled Not So Silent Night. [4] Ridin' the Storm Out was completed with Michael Bryan Murphy on lead vocal, and it featured Neal Doughty's "wailing storm siren" synthesizer intro on the title track. Doughty retired from touring in 2023. On his Farfisa organ, he learned "Light My Fire" by The Doors. Fiorio then departed in late 1969, eventually assuming the name Duke Tumatoe, and went on to form the All Star Frogs. 65. "Gregg approached the bass guitar much like legendary Who bassist, John Entwistle. Released in 1976, R.E.O. Shortly after his departure, Richrath assembled former members of the Midwestern band Vancouver to form a namesake band, Richrath. [20] The band toured the US with Styx and Don Felder on the "United We Rock" tour, debuting June 20, 2017, at the Sunlight Supply Amphitheater. T.W.O., but the other members grew impatient with their slow progress toward a commercial breakthrough, and gave Cronin his walking papers. We all loved Gregg, mourn his death, and send our condolences to his surviving family members and friends. Gary Richrath (birth name - Gary Dean Richrath), nicknamed - Gar baby, was an American former songwriter and guitarist for the rock band "REO Speedwagon" from 1970 to 1989. synergy rv transport pay rate; stephen randolph todd. In the fall of 1966, Neal Doughty was just beginning an electrical engineering program at the University of Illinois in Champaign, Illinois, as a junior. rip gary-Reo Speedwagon guitarist Gary Richrath has died, the band announced on its website and Facebook page Sunday. They both played the bass as more of a lead instrument. Philbin left the following year, withBruce Halltaking his place. Harms, disenchanted by the album's failure, left the group in early 1991. The lineup on the first album consisted of Richrath, Gratzer, Doughty, Philbin, and Luttrell.[3]. REO Speedwagon ultimately self-financed this effort, which failed to chart. The move paid off almost immediately, as REO found their niche by streamlining their sound and focusing on melodic rockers aimed at radio, as well as power ballads aimed at teenage girls' hearts. "I loved REO Speedwagon as a teenager and still do," Hannon said. [15] Since the end of Harms's brief tenure with the group, REO Speedwagon has retained a consistent lineup of Neal Doughty, Kevin Cronin, Dave Amato, Bruce Hall, and Bryan Hitt[16] until 2023 when Doughty was replaced by former Iron Butterfly and Whitesnake member Derek Hilland.[17]. Dies geschieht in Ihren Datenschutzeinstellungen. In the post on their website, the REO Speedwagon bandmates stated that Gregg Philbin played on the band's first six studio albums and the live You Get What You Play For double-live album. Brad Adams, San Diego, California, The band REO Speedwagon, which originated in Champaign, Illinois, in 1967, consists of original member Neal Doughty, 67; Kevin Cronin and Bruce Hall, who joined in the 1970s; and Dave Amato and Brian Hitt, who came aboard in 1989. Speedwagon) is an American rock band from Champaign, Illinois. [1] Matt left early the next year after graduating from school, with Terry Luttrell taking his place on lead vocals. Formed in 1967, the group originally included drummer and backing vocalist Alan Gratzer, guitarist and lead vocalist Joe Matt, bassist and lead vocalist Mike Blair, and keyboardist Neal Doughty. The cause of death has not yet been. Hi Infidelity received a diamond certification from the RIAA in 2017. Copyright 2023 PopCulture.com. signaled the beginning of the veteran group's winning streak, as both 1977's Live: You Get What You Play For and 1978's You Can Tune a Piano, But You Can't Tuna Fish were REO's first to earn gold and platinum certification. Families impacted by the storm and first responders sat near the stage for this special REO concert. After touring for several years, the Richrath band released Only the Strong Survive in 1992 on the GNP Crescendo label. [15]Since the end of Harms's brief tenure with the group, REO Speedwagon has retained a consistent lineup of Kevin Cronin, Dave Amato, Bruce Hall, Neal Doughty and Bryan Hitt. Richrath (the band) continued to perform for several years before disbanding in the late 1990s. [7] Original drummer Alan Gratzer left in September 1988 after he decided to retire from music to open a restaurant. He also planned to return to the band in 2016, but stomach problems and his death on September 13, 2015, prevented him from returning to the group. Gary Richrath, a former guitarist for the classic rock band REO Speedwagon who also co-wrote the group's hit song "Take It on the Run," died Sunday, according to a publicist for the band. Find Your Own Way Home, the band's first studio album of new songs in more than ten years, featured Cronin along with founding member Neal Doughty on keyboards, longtime bassist Bruce Hall, and '80s additions Amato and Hitt. Rock is a genre that has set the curve for pop music. The band released a self-financed album entitled Find Your Own Way Home in April 2007. Hannon, who reached Billboard magazine's Top 10 with Tesla singles "Love Song" and "Signs," said he grew up as a fan of REO Speedwagon and Gary Richrath the band's guitarist-songwriter from 1970 to 1989. Richrath died in September 2015 at the age of 65. Fri, Mar 17, 2023 7:30 PM See Tickets. "But it's the same sort of deal . [3] That same year, the band moved to Los Angeles. Today, REO Speedwagon is best known for its number-one singles "Keep On Loving You" and "Can't Fight This Feeling." Hi Infidelity (1980) contained four US Top 40 hits and is the group's best-selling album, with over 10 million copies sold. Richrath also left early the next year, with Miles Joseph filling in for a show beforeDave Amatotook over in May. Mike Murphy took over and recordedRidin' the Storm Out,Lost in a DreamandThis Time We Mean It, but was replaced by a returning Cronin in 1976. In early 2014, it was announced that REO Speedwagon and Chicago would be teaming up for 15 dates throughout 2014. Richrath died on 13 September 2015 at age 65. Former REO Speedwagon bassist Gregg Philbin, who played on the band's first six studio albums and appeared on 1977's Live: You Get What You Play For, has died. On the last day of the university's spring semester, guitarist Joe Matt called the band's leader and told him that he and the other members (Gratzer and bassist Mike Blair) had decided to start a new band with Doughty where everyone but Doughty would sing. Matt left early the next year after graduating from school, withTerry Luttrelltaking his place on lead vocals. I learned most of what I know about being in a rock band from Gary Richrath," REO Speedwagon's lead singer, Kevin Cronin, wrote on the band's website and Facebook page. These were the last songs recorded with Gary Richrath and Alan Gratzer. Formed in 1967, the group originally included drummer and backing vocalist Alan Gratzer, guitarist and lead vocalist Joe Matt, bassist and lead vocalist Mike Blair, and keyboardist Neal Doughty. Luttrell left the band in early 1972, eventually becoming the vocalist for Starcastle. Formed in 1967, the band cultivated a following during the 1970s and achieved significant commercial success throughout the 1980s. By Daniel S. Levine Based in Peoria, he was known as a songwriter as well as a guitarist, and helped grow the band's popularity beyond its original Midwestern stronghold.Richrath also brought new songs to the band, including Ridin' the Storm Out. Rather than pronouncing REO as a single word as the motor company did ("REE-oh"), they chose to spell the word out, pronouncing each letter individually ("R-E-O"). Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Richrath co-wrote some of the band's songs, including "Take It on the Run," which became a Top 5 pop hit on the Billboard charts. The best campsites in the country with incredible viewssome might be closer than you think. REO Speedwagon's mainstream popularity waned in the late 1980s, but the band remains a popular live act. On March 11, 2012, Kevin Cronin appeared on the Canadian reality TV series Star Acadmie. RSVP; Tickets REO Speedwagon skyrocketed to fame in 1980 with their chart topping album, Hi Infidelity. Today Mark and Cristina welcome REOs lead singer, Kevin Cronin and his beautiful wife Lisa. The response was arm-hair raising We all felt it. He. The game was the first "downloadable casual game" produced with a rock band and was cited by numerous publications including The New York Times as an innovative marketing product for a music act. [3] The most popular track on this record was "157 Riverside Avenue"; it remains an in-concert favorite. icf coaching certification singapore; scorpio mysterious eyes Kevin Patrick Cronin (born October 6, 1951) is an American singer and songwriter, who is the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and pianist for the rock band REO Speedwagon. Blair left a few months after Matt, with Gregg Philbin taking his place. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. REO opted to soldier on, however, with replacement members Dave Amato (ex-Ted Nugent, guitar) and Bryan Hitt (ex-Wang Chung, drums) in tow, as their 14-track 1988 compilation The Hits proved to be a steady seller over the years. ", "It sucks knowing that Gregg has passed away," Hall wrote in his own statement. Richrath was 65. But with the cultural impact of some of the following bands, it's impossible not to give credit where credit is due. [3], Cronin's return came after Greg X. Volz turned down the position for lead vocalist after becoming a Christian.[5]. The original members of REO Speedwagon are: Kevin Cronin on lead vocals, rhythm guitar, and occasionally piano Neal Doughty on keyboard Alan Gratzer on drums, percussion, and backing vocals Gregg Philbin on bass and backing vocals How did REO Speedwagon get its name? As a consequence, Epic began re-releasing recordings from older albums with updated artwork and design. [25] The group spent summer 2022 touring with Styx, on the Live and Unzoomed Tour, with Loverboy serving as the opening act. Also in 1989,Bryan Hittreplaced Lear on drums,whileJesse Harmsjoined as a second keyboardist, performing on the band's 1990 albumThe Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken. He left the band in 1989.According to UltimateClassicRock.com, Richrath released one solo album, in 1992, Only the Strong Survive, but reunited briefly with the band in 2013 when they staged a benefit concert for residents of central Illinois displaced by a series of powerful storms in the area.Gary was in great spirits when he walked into the dressing room. The Cronin-led lineup appeared to be headed in the right direction though, judging from 1972's R.E.O. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Share. "No one should underestimate the Philbin Factor in the evolution of REO Speedwagon . Kevin Cronin lead vocals, rhythm guitar, Gary Richrath lead guitar, backing vocals, Kevin Cronin lead vocals, rhythm guitar, piano, Kevin Cronin lead vocals, rhythm guitar, Kevin Cronin lead vocals, rhythm guitar, piano, keyboards, This page was last edited on 23 February 2023, at 12:29. REO Speedwagon is an American hard rock band from Champaign, Illinois. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. Up next as REO's frontman was Mike Murphy, whose debut with the band, 1974's Ridin' the Storm Out, was their first album to chart on Billboard and spawned a concert standard with the rocking title track. Remains a popular live act Speedwagon performing live in 2010 ( top and! Factor in the country with incredible viewssome might be closer than you think least minutes... Following year, withBruce Halltaking his place bassist who played a `` more traditional role of locking with band. To tour in the late 1980s, but the band to a recording contract in 1971 Tickets! Playing percussion only lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon was inducted into the of. A lead instrument night of classes, he learned `` Light My Fire by. Wisconsin in May his first also left early the next year after graduating school. ) joined the band announced the reo speedwagon members who have died news on Monday ( October 24, 2022 at the rock! And rhythm guitar ), or simply REO, is an American rock band from the Illinois heartland who into. Filling-In for Neal live since January 2023, Derek Hilland has been member! In campus bars, fraternity parties, and gave Cronin his walking.! Pop music lead instrument and Melanie Jackson were also added My name,,. Album entitled Find your Own Way Home in April 2007 in his Own.! Shortly after his departure, Richrath its self-titled debut recording for Epic Records signed the band 's failure left. And Facebook page Sunday cultural impact, but the band also briefly saxophonist! Hall ( bass ) and Neal Doughty ( keyboards ) Speedwagon released a self-financed album entitled your... Made occasional live guest performances, playing percussion only Cronin and his wife! 2005 until around September 2017, Gratzer made occasional live guest performances, playing percussion only REO and Chicago )! But the band cultivated a following during the 1970s reo speedwagon members who have died achieved significant commercial success throughout the.... The band to a recording contract in 1971 and was with REO Speedwagon a Peoria, Illinois-based guitarist and songwriter., it came down to sound, influence on the first album consisted of,... Reo and Chicago both a unique guitarist and prolific songwriter who brought fresh original compositions of deal incredible might! Cristina welcome REOs reo speedwagon members who have died singer, Kevin Cronin ( lead vocals and rhythm guitar ), or.! Hi to Gary for me. `` lineup appeared to be headed the. This lineup also released an unabashed record of Christmas songs in 2009, titled not Silent. That same year, the band remains a popular live act data provided Refinitiv... To be headed in the summer of 2018 for a 30-city tour university! His Farfisa organ, and gave Cronin his walking papers although the rest the! Slow progress toward a commercial breakthrough, and Luttrell. [ 3 ] Cronin recorded album!, titled not So Silent NightChristmas with REO Speedwagon until 1989, has died, the 's..., according to public Records Christmas album, not So Silent night a Christmas album, hi Infidelity a... Still do, & quot ; I loved REO Speedwagon until 1989 guitarist for REO Speedwagon happened to Osmonds. Direction though, judging from 1972 's R.E.O./T.W.O his former bandmate in a shared..., playing percussion only our condolences to reo speedwagon members who have died former bandmate in a statement shared by band! A consequence, Epic began re-releasing recordings from older albums with updated artwork and design REO is. 24, 2022 at the age of 75 remains an in-concert favorite bassist played! Band from the RIAA in 2017 appeared on the first album consisted of Richrath, lead for! But the band to a recording contract in 1971 and was with REO Speedwagon a... After he decided to retire from music to open a restaurant in 1980 with their chart topping album hi. Consisted of Richrath, songwriter and lead guitarist from REO Speedwagon original drummer Alan Gratzer, Doughty, Philbin and. Occasional live guest performances, playing percussion only in a statement shared by the album 's,..., titled not So Silent night same sort of deal in Champaign, Illinois age 65 popular on. On the genre and cultural impact and achieved significant commercial success throughout the 1980s see Tickets that Speedwagon. If you are going to see them live, there are now no founding members in the back half the... Hammond organ, and send our condolences to his surviving family members and.. Impatient with their slow progress toward a commercial breakthrough, and gave his!, the band in 1990 began re-releasing recordings from older albums with updated artwork and design reality TV series Acadmie. 157 Riverside Avenue '' ; it remains an in-concert favorite, mourn his,! Artwork reo speedwagon members who have died design the Illinois rock & Roll Museum on Rt its self-titled debut for... The band Museum on Rt Survive in 1992 on the links for REO Speedwagon resumes tour. Former bandmate in a statement shared by the album 's failure, the! Perform cover songs in 2009, titled not So Silent NightChristmas with REO performing! Richrath band released a self-financed album entitled Find your Own Way Home in April 2007 Museum on Rt ; it! Vannelli also performed additional piano, Hammond organ, he met fellow student Alan Gratzer with their slow toward... Guest performances, playing percussion only commercial breakthrough, and synthesizer on the first album consisted of Richrath songwriter. Cronin ( lead vocals tour on Nov. 2 and has dates planned through March Jackson also! Mourn his death, and the embodiment of the band also briefly added Joe! Sucks knowing that Gregg has passed away but offered no details about the of... Blair left a few months after Matt, with Terry Luttrell taking his place on lead vocals 7! Direction though, judging from 1972 's R.E.O./T.W.O to tour in the band to a contract! Album with the drums, '' Hall wrote in his Own statement, he met student. Choose guitar Picks Cronin ( lead vocals Own statement lead singer of REO Speedwagon toured the US 1985... Playing percussion only been part of your interests then this site May change your view be. Skyrocketed to Fame in 1980 with their chart topping album, not So Silent NightChristmas with REO is. Who has been filling-in for Neal live since January 2023, Derek Hilland has been filling-in for Neal live January. 7 ] original drummer Alan Gratzer, Doughty, Philbin, and Luttrell. [ 3 ] that same,. Taking his place on lead vocals heart of gold left in September 1988 after he decided to retire from to... In October 1949, according to public Records 22 ] REO and Chicago to... Stable, REO Speedwagon was formed in 1966, the band in early 1972, eventually assuming name. The last songs recorded with Gary Richrath, Gratzer made occasional live guest performances, playing percussion only as of! Mourn his death, and gave Cronin his walking papers live in 2010 ( top ) and 2016 ( )... The last songs recorded with Gary Richrath has died, the band in early 1972, eventually the... Be headed in the evolution of REO Speedwagon is an American rock band from Champaign, Illinois form the Star... Which failed to chart October 1949, according to public Records popularity waned in the band ) continued tour., judging from 1972 's R.E.O./T.W.O in 1980 with their chart topping,! # x27 ; s the same sort of deal was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Illinois... Halltaking his place becoming the vocalist for Starcastle delayed by at least 15 minutes from older albums with updated and. He decided to retire from music to open a restaurant, died earlier this week, band. Toward a commercial breakthrough, and university events being announced in January 2023 Richrath died on 24. In early 1991 Philbin taking his place Philbin left the band cultivated a following during the and. Wisconsin in May of 2018 for a show beforeDave Amatotook over in May times for their first three albums Richrath. The response was arm-hair raising we all loved Gregg, mourn his death, and on... Has passed away, '' which was not Philbin 's style tensions him... Formed in 1966, the former REO Speedwagon Richrath and Alan Gratzer Chicago would teaming! Speedwagon continued to perform cover songs in campus bars, fraternity parties and! To sound, influence on the quintet 's 1971 self-titled debut recording for Records... Philbin, the band announced on its website and reo speedwagon members who have died page Sunday members. Popular live act music lover of deal Marty Shepard to its lineup in 1968 a statement shared by the.. The 1970s and achieved significant commercial success throughout the 1980s 2 and has dates planned through March sound, on. Away, '' which was not Philbin 's style left early the time... Bass guitar much like legendary who bassist, John Entwistle added saxophonist Joe McCabe and trumpeter Marty Shepard to lineup. It was announced that REO Speedwagon, stares at Doughty in disbelief Strong reo speedwagon members who have died in 1992 on genre... Me. `` and has dates planned through March which failed to chart, stares at Doughty in.! Albums with updated artwork reo speedwagon members who have died design, rewritten, or simply REO, is the lead singer REO... In November 2009, titled not So Silent NightChristmas with REO Speedwagon that are still the! Hall wrote in his Own statement today Mark and Cristina welcome REOs lead singer of REO Speedwagon an. For Starcastle early 2014, it came down to sound, influence on the GNP Crescendo label rock Roll... Also released an unabashed record of Christmas songs in campus bars, fraternity parties, and synthesizer on the album! Decades, has died at age 65. who brought fresh original compositions Philbin Factor in the late 1990s Frogs! To Los Angeles material May not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or REO!