The well-loved, and well-known band, REO Speedwagon has broken up after almost 60 years of music, claiming 'irreconcilable differences.'
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With more than five and a half million monthly listeners on Spotify, the band is still going strong. They have decades-long fans, and still filled venues. However, sometimes the chemistry just isn't there anymore, and the spark is gone. For REO Speedwagon, they have decided to call it a day and go their separate ways.
In their 57 years of playing together, they produced some absolute classics. Love them or hate them, there is no denying that songs like Can't Fight This Feeling and Keep On Loving You are absolute anthems. I challenge anyone to resist a little singalong after a few beers.
REO Speedwagon are icons of the classic rock scene, undoubtedly being the soundtrack to many people's lives. 57 years is no short amount of time to be playing. But, their announcement online marked their Las Vegas show on Saturday night as their last. "It is with great sadness that we announce REO Speedwagon will cease touring effective January 1, 2025."
The End For 'REO Speedwagon'
I think that it is fair for REO Speedwagon to finally bow out from the touring scene after almost 60 years. They have played around the world to millions of fans. They have paid their dues and brought their unique and well-loved sound to the world for generations.
In their final gig, in the Venetian Theater, the band thanked their fans, the original members of REO Speedwagon, and the culture that let them become the superstars they are today. Of course, there are not many of the original band members left. But, Kevin Cronin, 73, made sure to pay respects to the ones that do remain. "I want to pay tribute to the co-founders and only real original members of REO Speedwagon, Alan Gratzer and Neil Doughty," he said.
As a final farewell on their website, they thanked everyone who had loyally listened and rocked out. "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." It marks the end of a monumental run for the band, and I have no doubt they will be played and loved by many for generations to come.
