Kevin Cronin recently addressed his participation in the upcoming University of Illinois homecoming halftime show. He provided clarification on his involvement in a statement shared on Facebook.
Bruce Hall had previously announced that REO Speedwagon members would perform together with Cronin during the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign homecoming festivities. However, Cronin’s comments suggest he will attend the event but may not perform alongside his former bandmates.
“Hi Friends, I am honored to have been approached by representatives of the University of Illinois, and invited to appear on the field for the Homecoming Game halftime show on September 27,” Cronin said. “The Marching Illini will be performing three REO Speedwagon songs, as Alan, Neal, and Bruce play along; it has been too many years to count since the four of us have all been together!”
Cronin expressed his appreciation for the musical tribute being planned for the event. “As a songwriter, there are few greater honors than to hear other artists and musicians perform my songs,” he continued. “I know I will be looking on in awe as the four hundred-plus Marching Illini pay tribute to the music of REO Speedwagon with an all-REO halftime presentation.”
Cronin will be present at the September 27 homecoming game. The statement suggests he may be observing rather than performing with the other REO Speedwagon members during the halftime show.
This homecoming event holds special significance for the band, as it marks a return to their roots. University of Illinois News reported that REO Speedwagon formed at the University of Illinois in 1967 when founding members Neal Doughty and Alan Gratzer met during their first week of classes and began playing music together.
The tentative nature of Cronin’s involvement may be connected to recent developments within the band. The Los Angeles Times revealed that REO Speedwagon announced it will stop touring after 2025 due to health issues, including bassist Bruce Hall’s back problems and Kevin Cronin’s surgery, leading to “irreconcilable differences” and a pause in their touring career.
Despite these challenges, Bruce Hall has expressed his intention to return to performing. However, Ultimate Classic Rock noted that the band collectively decided against continuing touring at the level required by their fans, which may explain the uncertainty surrounding future performances.
The upcoming homecoming festivities represent more than just a musical performance. University of Illinois News confirmed that longtime members Bruce Hall, Alan Gratzer, Neal Doughty, and Kevin Cronin will return to campus to serve as grand marshals of the homecoming parade and participate in gameday festivities, making it a comprehensive celebration of their connection to the university.
The September 27 event will showcase the enduring legacy of REO Speedwagon’s music. The 400-plus member Marching Illini will perform three of the band’s songs during what promises to be an emotional homecoming for both the musicians and their fans.
