Kimmie Sue Hall, wife of REO Speedwagon bassist Bruce Hall, addressed recent speculation about Kevin Cronin’s absence from an upcoming reunion concert. She shared her insights in a recent interview on Midlife with Courage with Kim Benoy.
The discussion focused on a special farewell concert in Champaign, Illinois. The event will feature various past members of REO Speedwagon in the band’s hometown.
“So REO Speedwagon is no longer but Kevin Cronin left to go solo and he has the Kevin Cronin band. And he can absolutely do that. But it broke a lot of people’s hearts. A lot of fans were kind of left high and dry,” Hall explained.
She detailed how the reunion concert came together:
“So the city of Champagne Illinois reached out to Bruce and Neil and said ‘Hey we would love to have a farewell concert like just letting you guys honor the legacy.’ And they got every other member of REO Speedwagon ever.”
Hall clarified the timing of the event and addressed speculation about Bruce Hall’s involvement:
“Bruce did not call and do this. He was contacted. Nobody picked a date that Kevin couldn’t be there. No, the date was chosen in November long before Kevin’s tour dates. And I think he understands that now. We still hope that he does something. If he can’t get another band to fill in for that one night, hopefully a video or something.”
The concert will honor former members Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin. All proceeds will support the Halls’ foundation.
The upcoming reunion has captured significant attention in the rock community. Several key details have emerged about the event’s organization and purpose.
The State Farm Center revealed the concert date as June 14, 2025. Ticket prices will range from $25 to $185, ensuring accessibility for fans of all budgets.
A report from Ultimate Classic Rock highlighted the impressive lineup. Six former members will participate: Neal Doughty, Alan Gratzer, Bruce Hall, Terry Luttrell, Mike Murphy, and Steve Scorfina. This gathering marks a unique celebration of the band’s legacy.
WIXY noted the event’s charitable aspect. The concert proceeds will support the REO Speedwagon Foundation for rare GU cancer research at Moffitt Cancer Center.
This reunion stands as one of the most comprehensive gatherings of former REO Speedwagon members in recent years. Musicians from different eras of the band’s history will unite for this special performance in Champaign.
