REO Speedwagon has called it quits, at least where touring is concerned. The band posted a statement on its website announcing their retirement from live performing, citing “irreconcilable differences” between vocalist Kevin Cronin and bassist Bruce Hall.
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Hall underwent back surgery in the fall of 2023, with Matt Bissonette replacing him on bass for all 2024 REO Speedwagon shows. The statement opened strongly, as the band wrote jointly, “Bruce has intended to be Back On the Road Again by now. If it were up to just him, he’d be back on tour… but it’s not up to just him.”
The statement continued, “Bruce respected that opinion and is grateful that Matt has been around to keep the Wagon rolling through the summer tour. Bruce never had any intention of retiring or walking away from the band, fans, and crew he has loved for almost 50 years.” Additionally, the band wrote,
“For Kevin’s part, he too has never had any intention of leaving the band, and the fans and crew mean the world to him, as well.
“Due to this complex situation, irreconcilable differences arose between Bruce and Kevin,” the statement went on. The band concluded, “So, it is with great sadness that we announce REO Speedwagon will cease touring effective January 1, 2025. Neal, Kevin, and Bruce thank their fans for all their years of loyal support and for giving back to the band such wonderful memories that will remain with each of them forever.”
REO Speedwagon Posts Statement Announcing Tough Decision to Retire from Touring
Bruce Hall also posted his own statement on Facebook, writing that he “never ever thought it would end like this and I’m heartbroken.” He continued, “Please know Neal and I did everything in our power to try and keep the Wagon rolling. I am so appreciative of ALL the amazing love & support. You guys have been very vocal and clear in your wishes for me to return to the stage. Trust me…that’s all I wanted too. We all deserved a farewell tour.”
Hall concluded, “For the record, I wanted REO Speedwagon to continue to tour with the lineup of Kevin [Cronin], myself, Dave [Amato], Bryan [Hitt], and Derek [Hilland]. Just as it was prior to my necessary, planned and successful back surgery.”
REO Speedwagon will conclude its tour on November 23 in Lexington, Kentucky. It’s currently unclear if the band is completely breaking up or simply ceasing to tour, but the news is sad for fans either way.
Featured Image by Larry Marano/Shutterstock
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