REO Speedwagon gave their final performance as a band on Saturday December 21st at the Venetian Theatre in Las Vegas ending a storied run for the legendary rock group . Frontman Kevin Cronin gave an emotional statement to the audience thanking them for many years since their founding in 1967 expressing gratitude towards the REO Speedwagon name however it is now officially retired as of January 1st 2025.
Kevin Cronin confirmed while announcing the change of name for REO Speedwagon that his version of band's legacy would continue under the name Kevin Cronin after 2025 alongside a continued musical spirit honoring the bands original sound, this change is after irreconcilable differences made band disband. The music and energy from REO Speedwagon according to Kevin Cronin will live through the new musical venture.
Irreconcilable Differences Lead to End of Touring as REO Speedwagon after 2024 summer tour
REO Speedwagon that included members Neal Doughty Kevin Cronin Bruce Hall Dave Amato Bryan Hitt and Matt Bissonnette said on Facebook in September the band would cease to tour from 2025 citing irreconcilable differences between Cronin and Hall. Bruce Hall has not been touring since 2023 due to back surgery and his spot is filled by Matt Bissonnette until an agreement was made to officially end touring. REO Speedwagon recently completed a tour with band Train that included many dates over the summer of 2024 shortly before announcing they were stopping operations at year end.
Bassists Health and Replacement Highlight Internal Disagreements Regarding REO Speedwagon
The Facebook post expressed Bruce Hall intended to return to stage shows however some did not believe his back surgery allowed sufficient return at levels their fans expect for the performances. Bruce Hall expressed gratitude towards Matt Bissonnette for maintaining quality of performances while they completed the summer tour showing support towards Bissonnette contributions to the band while they sought a solution. Bruce Hall reiterated on social media his intent to continue performing for fans without quitting his role in the band.
Kevin Cronin also stated that his intentions were not to leave the band either however a complicated situation lead to irreconcilable differences between Bruce and Kevin. REO Speedwagon ceased its touring operations after January 1st 2025 with a shared sentiment that it was time to conclude current operations according to shared press releases.
Bruce Hall's Sadness Amidst Departure from REO Speedwagon While Wishing Band Continuity
Bruce Hall released personal statement saying his heartbreak at band cessation indicating both Neal Doughty and himself tried to maintain the status quo while "keeping the Wagon rolling" showing a dedication toward working as group to serve their audiences and music fans . He felt thankful for the support he received from audience members and showed understanding regarding audience wishes about seeing him on tour once again highlighting a strong connection he shared with REO Speedwagon fans. He also hoped that band would continue in future with the same lineup however that does not occur because of outvoting between group members with varying creative preferences.
Kevin Cronin Shares Being Outvoted in Decision To Disband While Stating He Never Wanted to Leave
Kevin Cronin noted he had been outvoted during a final internal discussion from members to discontinue use of the REO Speedwagon name after end of year in 2024 and how he has to move forward. He noted he wanted the band to continue with the name REO Speedwagon however after this decision a different creative path was necessary to continue their performance. REO Speedwagon according to Kevin Cronin is a three way business partnership including Cronin Doughty and Hall. Each of them were allowed an individual vote concerning future plans for the group. Kevin stated his personal intent was not to ever quit the band and he personally is not in agreement with the current decision however must move forward professionally.
Kevin Cronin's New Tour With Styx And Don Felder After REO Speedwagon Official Retirement
Kevin Cronin’s musical projects continue in a scheduled 2025 Brotherhood of Rock tour with Styx and former Eagles member Don Felder proving the legacy of music remains constant. This demonstrates he is taking his music in new and exciting creative directions along side Don Felder from Eagles as well as Styx all within the Brotherhood of Rock 2025 tour to start the next music chapter after years performing for audiences around the globe. Styx has collaborated in recent past with other musicians allowing further exploration of live and energetic venues with other top talent . Don Felder a long standing talent with the Eagles is adding more star power to a already impressive set list demonstrating that 2025 tour shows will bring some iconic performance experiences.
The REO Speedwagon band formally retired its operations December 21st, however the impact of the musical collaborations throughout past many years will continue to have reverberating impact. This will remain true among all people who enjoyed the shows from REO Speedwagon, a legendary rock group, in all different venues and during each show with all members of the band through to the years.