REO Speedwagon’s lead vocalist Kevin Cronin has addressed the controversy surrounding an upcoming reunion event in a statement on Facebook. The event will take place on June 14, 2025, in Champaign. Former members Terry and Mike will perform, but Cronin and other long-term members are notably absent.
“The organizers of the Champaign event could have picked a date when all of the former members of REO were available to participate,” Cronin stated. “Instead they chose June 14, 2025, a date where it was public knowledge that I was previously committed to perform with Styx and Kevin Cronin Band in Bend, Oregon.”
“I am being asked to participate in an event on a date when I can’t possibly be there in-person,” he continued. “And then being falsely accused of turning down the invitation. I am deeply disturbed and hurt by all of this.”
“After all I have done to help build the legacy of REO Speedwagon, I feel I have earned and deserve to be included in any event honoring that legacy,” Cronin added. “Instead, I have been knowingly excluded.”
Cronin highlighted that 35-year REO veterans Dave Amato and Bryan Hitt received no invitations to the Champaign event.
The controversy emerges during a period of significant changes in REO Speedwagon’s history. These developments reveal deeper complexities within the band’s current situation.
Recent Band Status
Reports from MyQ105 revealed that REO Speedwagon stopped touring in September 2024. The decision stemmed from irreconcilable differences between Cronin and bassist Bruce Hall. Cronin has maintained his dedication to the band’s legacy. He expressed hope for future touring activities if circumstances improve.
Band members have now taken different paths. Cronin focuses on new collaborations while maintaining his connection to the band’s history.
Reunion Event Details
Ultimate Classic Rock detailed the upcoming Champaign reunion concert. Six former members will participate: Neal Doughty, Alan Gratzer, Bruce Hall, Terry Luttrell, Mike Murphy, and Steve Scorfina. The event will support the REO Speedwagon Foundation for rare GU cancer research.
The concert will honor departed members Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin. This tribute adds significance to the gathering despite the ongoing controversy.
Cronin’s Current Projects
The Ericaler announced Cronin’s next venture. He will join Styx and Don Felder on the ‘Brotherhood Of Rock’ tour in 2025. This collaboration extends his professional relationship with Styx, which began in the 1970s.
Cronin continues his musical journey through this new partnership. The situation with REO Speedwagon remains unresolved.
