REO Speedwagon is now at a standstill.
The band formed in 1967 announced Monday that they will cease touring as of January. Their last stop on the current tour is Lexington, Kentucky on November 23.
In a long Facebook post, the group explained their reasoning. They cited “irreconcilable difference,” a term that is often used in divorce cases.
Bruce had intended to be Back On The Road again by now. The band posted on Facebook that if it were just up to Bruce Hall, he would be back on the road… but it isn’t just up to him.
In the band’s statement, they continued: “The consensus opinion is that he has not recovered enough to perform to the level of performance the fans expect.” Bruce respected this opinion and was grateful Matt had been there to keep the wagon rolling throughout the summer tour. Bruce had no intention of walking away from his band, fans, and crew that he had loved for almost 50 years.
Matt Bissonette has worked with musicians such as Ringo Starr, Elton John, and others. He began to fill in for Hall when he had surgery last year.
Hall said to Ultimate Classic Rock last year that the “consensus,” was that he was healthy enough to tour again, but did not have a “good posture” to perform to the level of his fans.
In a statement, the band said, “For Kevin, he has also never intended to leave the band. The fans and crew are very important to him.”
Kevin Cronin is the lead singer of the band. He joined in 1971.
The statement went on to say that “due to this complicated situation, irreconcilable disagreements arose between Bruce” and Kevin. It is therefore with great regret that we announce that REO Speedwagon’s tour will end on January 1, 2025. Neal, Kevin, and Bruce would like to thank all of their fans who have supported them for so many years and are giving the band wonderful memories.
Neal Doughty is the founding member of this band.
Hall wrote on Facebook that he was “heartbroken over the decision”.
He told his fans, “I never thought this would be the end and I am heartbroken. I’m sorry to say that Neal and I did our best to keep the wagon rolling. I am truly grateful for all the love and support. Your wishes to see me return to the stage have been loud and clear. “Trust me…that was all I wanted as well.”
Hall said, “We all deserve a farewell trip.”
Hall stated that he wanted to continue touring with “the line-up of Kevin [Hilland], myself, Dave [Amato], Bryan [Hitt], and Derek [Hilland]”. As it was before my planned, necessary, and successful back surgery.
He added, “I love you and will miss all of you.”
Cronin became ill earlier this month and the band canceled shows in Chula Vista, San Diego County, and Phoenix.
Rancho Mirage in California is the first of 19 remaining dates on the band’s tour.
REO Speedwagon, along with Doughty and Mike Blair, was formed at the University of Illinois by Alan Gratzer.
REO Speedwagon is a successful band that has released several albums. “Hi Infidelity” has sold over 10 million copies.
