Bruce Hall of REO Speedwagon recently shared an update about a special reunion with his former bandmates, including Kevin Cronin, following a tribute performance in Illinois, as reported on Bruce Hall’s Facebook page.
The bassist reflected on what he described as an incredible week back home in Illinois. The week included a rare reunion performance with REO Speedwagon members to honor late guitarist Gary Richrath.
“What an incredible week back home in Illinois! Started the week off with an Illini win!” Hall said. “Then great to see my daughter perform a show, with loads of family and friends in the audience.”
Hall continued to describe the highlight of the week – the tribute performance in Peoria.
“Next up was the amazing tribute for Gary at the Peoria Riverfront Museum,” he continued. “Being back on stage with Mike, Kevin, Alan and Neal was awesome. Having Gary’s son, Eric, join us made it all the more special. Ended the week with a private showing at the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66. Big thanks to Ron Romero for an awesome tour and lunch!! Good things are happening. Long Live REO Speedwagon!!”
The reunion performance took place on Saturday evening, March 7, in Peoria, Illinois. It brought together REO Speedwagon members for a special tribute to their late guitarist Gary Richrath. Fans have responded with enthusiasm, expressing hope for potential future reunions.
This gathering holds particular significance given the band’s recent history and the legacy of the guitarist they honored. The tribute event brought together musicians who had experienced both tremendous success and internal challenges over their decades-long career.
Ultimate Classic Rock reported that Gary Richrath joined REO Speedwagon in 1970. He played a crucial role in shaping the band’s transformation from a bar band to an arena-rock powerhouse through his fiery guitar work and songwriting contributions. His influence on the band’s sound was instrumental in their rise to mainstream success during the 1970s and 1980s.
The tribute performance was part of a new museum exhibit dedicated to Richrath. Ultimate Classic Rock noted that the exhibit highlights his roots as a Peoria guitar hero in bands like Suburban 9 to 5 before joining REO Speedwagon. The exhibit celebrates his local connections and musical journey that eventually led to international fame.
The reunion becomes even more meaningful considering the band’s recent internal changes. Ultimate Classic Rock revealed that the band experienced a split in 2024 when Kevin Cronin departed following disputes. This makes the tribute performance a rare opportunity for all six remaining members to come together again.
The event demonstrated the enduring bonds between the musicians despite their professional differences. All members quickly agreed to participate in honoring their late bandmate’s memory and celebrating his lasting impact on their collective musical legacy.
