In a response to a fan on Facebook, Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon confirmed that he did not resign from the band.
The singer talked about his aim to keep the energy of REO Speedwagon alive with the Kevin Cronin Band on their 2025 tour in his post. “I have one question that I think all of us really deserve an answer to Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon,” a fan commented.
They added, “Did you officially ‘resign’ from the band REO Speedwagon as of May 2024 ??? It’s a simple yes or no. This would truly help US the Fans to move on. Thank you.”
“I never resigned from REO Speedwagon; I spent my adult life working to keep REO growing and relevant,” Cronin replied. “Bruce and I just could not agree on a path forward. Neal took Bruce’s side … Dave, Bryan, Derek, Matt, and the entire REO road crew stuck with me.”
He then revealed, “But I was outvoted 2-1 among the heritage band members. I had no choice but to make the heartbreaking choice to tour under Kevin Cronin Band starting in 2025. I had every intention of continuing the legacy of REO Speedwagon, but I am not permitted to use the name.”
“I fought hard, and am devastated by this outcome. But it is time to move forward. I wish Bruce and Neal the best in their future musical endeavors…” the vocalist ended his answer to the fan.
Interesting Q&A on Kevin Cronin‘s official Facebook page #music #love pic.twitter.com/bzz3x2lEr8
— Mitch Lafon (@mitchlafon) February 27, 2025
So, Cronin’s vote was a 2-1 decision, with Neal Doughty and Bruce Hall agreeing against him. Doughty, the last founding member, retired from touring in 2023. Hall took a break in November 2023 for back surgery, and Matt Bissonette filled in for him.
All three still had ownership of REO. The band split in September, explaining that Hall wasn’t fully recovered to perform and that there were ‘irreconcilable differences’ between him and Cronin. They also clarified that Hall never planned to leave, and neither did Cronin.
The last show with the REO Speedwagon name was on December 21 at the Venetian in Las Vegas.
