Kevin Cronin, the lead singer of REO Speedwagon, shared details about his new venture with Styx on his Facebook page.
“Hi Friends, So, Styx and Kevin Cronin Band had our first 2025 show last Friday in Lincoln, CA,” Cronin said. “Leading up to opening night, my feelings were all over the place… excitement, fear, insecurity, confidence; and the pendulum was in constant motion.”
“Well, the people in our audience at Thunder Valley got my emotions all sorted out and into balance as they roared their approval from Dave Amato’s opening guitar feedback of ‘Don’t Let Him Go,’ through the entire ‘Hi Infidelity’ album, a bunch more REO hits, and all the way to the final refrain of ‘Roll with the Changes,'” he continued.
“I woke up this morning to a beautiful message from Tommy Shaw of Styx,” Cronin added. “To be complimented on my vocals and on the ‘teenage energy’ of the band from a soulful guy, great performer, and master singer/guitarist like Tommy felt so good, as our friendship has always been one of honesty, trust, and respect. From our first tour together in the year 2000, Tommy and I have always believed in continuing to raise the bar, to push ourselves to improve our art and craft, and to never settle or rest on our past accomplishments.”
REO Speedwagon recently ended their touring career. Fans have voiced concerns about Cronin’s decision to perform without his former bandmates.
One REO fan said, “Loyalty is more important! Sorry! I get what you’re doing, but disagree! Unless you’re hard up for money! Bruce [Hall] is our brother! Love you guys, but you’re making a mistake!”
“Kevin Cronin is really just a cover band of REO Speedway. All original members are gone, there is no heart in that band. Gary Richrath was the heart of REO Speedwagon,” another fan shared in their comment.
This new chapter in Cronin’s career emerges from significant changes in REO Speedwagon’s history.
Ultimate Classic Rock reported that REO Speedwagon ended their touring activities in September 2024. The decision came after ‘irreconcilable differences’ emerged between Cronin and bassist Bruce Hall, marking the end of an era for the legendary rock band.
uDiscover Music revealed that the Kevin Cronin Band joined the ‘Brotherhood of Rock’ tour. The performances feature Cronin presenting REO Speedwagon’s entire ‘Hi Infidelity’ album for the first time outside the original band’s lineup.
American Family Insurance Amphitheater highlighted the collaboration between Cronin and Styx as a celebration of their 25-year musical friendship. Don Felder has joined as a special guest on the tour.
The tour’s setlist emphasizes the ‘Hi Infidelity’ album. Fans can experience these classic songs in a new context despite mixed reactions from longtime REO Speedwagon supporters.
