REO Speedwagon’s Bruce Hall recently addressed on Facebook whether the band would continue without Kevin Cronin.
In response to a fan suggesting that Hall could tour without Cronin, citing Pink Floyd’s decision to carry on without Roger Waters, Hall stated, “I just don’t want to be in another band. REO is our band and Kevin is our singer. We all deserved a farewell tour.”
Another fan commented, expressing that Cronin is the issue, and questioned if Hall’s outspoken views might affect Cronin’s decision about returning. Hall replied, “It was important for me to make sure the truth is told. Fans need to understand I won’t be performing at the final shows. There also was a lot of mistruths and rumors getting started. Like, I need to sit on a stool to play, my surgery wasn’t successful, I’m hooked on painkillers or started drinking again.”
Hall emphasized, “My sobriety is of utmost importance to me. I take no pain medication at all. I don’t need a stool to perform. I never ever wanted to cut anyone’s pay. I just wanted my band to keep on rolling….with me as the bassist.”
The band previously announced their plans to end their touring career, explaining that Hall had hoped to return but was not yet able to perform at the expected level after his back surgery.
This isn’t the first instance where Hall addressed fans suggesting replacing Cronin. He reiterated that both he and Cronin are vital to the band and he wouldn’t replace him, although he acknowledged he couldn’t stop Cronin if he decided to leave.
More recently, Hall spoke about the possibility of returning next year, stating, “I would in a heartbeat…but I can’t make Kevin stay.”
He also mentioned, “I’ll never refuse to talk with him. I’ve tried over and over and will continue to. It’s of utmost importance to me,” regarding his relationship with Cronin.
After Hall’s health issues, Matt Bissonette filled in for him. On September 16, 2024, the band announced they would cease touring starting January 1, 2025, explaining that Hall had not fully recovered from his back surgery.
