REO Speedwagon’s bassist Bruce Hall has addressed Kevin Cronin’s recent comments about the band’s reunion concert. He shared his statement on his Facebook page.
“Happy to set the record straight. We were all (including Kevin) invited to participate in this event in early January,” Hall said. “Kevin states he’s been ‘falsely accused’ of turning down the invitation. I’ve seen nowhere it’s been said he turned it down, and I know he’s been asked to participate virtually.”
“This event was created to provide the founding fathers, original singers, and classic REO lineup a chance to reunite and say a proper goodbye,” he continued. “A chance to honor Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin’s memory.”
“Most importantly, proceeds are going to the REO Speedwagon fund for rare GU Cancer Research at Moffitt Cancer Center. The hospital that saved my son’s life,” Hall explained. “How anyone can be ‘deeply disturbed and hurt’ by this is beyond me.”
“Neal, Alan, and I are not being paid. We are thrilled to have this amazing chance to rock together one last time and raise money and awareness for such a wonderful cause,” he concluded.
Kevin Cronin had previously expressed concerns about the reunion concert’s planning and timing. He stated he was not included in the arrangements.
Recent developments have shaped the band’s current situation. People magazine revealed that REO Speedwagon ended their touring career on January 1, 2025. The decision stemmed from ‘irreconcilable differences’ between Cronin and Hall.
The band performed their final show in Las Vegas on December 21, 2024. This marked the conclusion of their touring career. Individual members have since pursued separate musical paths.
Consequence reports that Kevin Cronin will launch a new venture. He will tour with Styx as part of the ‘Brotherhood of Rock Tour’ across North America in 2025.
Former Eagles guitarist Don Felder joins the tour as a special guest. This new chapter in Cronin’s career runs parallel to the proposed reunion concert. The reunion aims to honor the band’s legacy while supporting an important charitable cause.
