Kevin Cronin, who has led REO Speedwagon for more than 50 years, is facing new challenges that may prove difficult to overcome. As he tours with the Kevin Cronin Band on the Brotherhood of Rock Tour alongside Styx and Don Felder, Cronin admits he is uncertain about his future plans.
“I’m a goal-oriented person,” Cronin told UCR. “For the past 50 years, I’ve always known what the next tour or album would be after each tour. This time, it’s different, and I don’t have a clear goal. So I’m preparing myself for that change.”
REO Speedwagon effectively ended last fall after keyboardist Neal Doughty retired and bassist Bruce Hall took a hiatus. The two voted to dissolve the band, leading to tensions between Cronin and Hall. This disagreement excluded Cronin from an REO alumni reunion concert in Champaign, Illinois, where the band was formed in the mid-’60s.
Cronin announced he would tour with the Kevin Cronin Band, featuring the same musicians from REO Speedwagon’s 2024 lineup. They are performing the “Hi Infidelity” album along with other hits. However, Cronin acknowledges the challenges of touring under a different name.
“This tour has been a delight, but not without its challenges,” Cronin said. “The REO Speedwagon name and logo carry significant recognition. People know what to expect with REO, but there’s uncertainty with the Kevin Cronin Band.”
As a result, Cronin is disbanding the band’s touring setup, a move he describes as “heartbreaking.” Crew members have shared that the Kevin Cronin Band will not tour after the current tour ends in Milwaukee on August 24, 2025. Cronin plans to perform select dates, including the Rock Legends Cruise in 2026, but keeping the full touring team is not feasible.
“My plan was to keep the organization together, but it’s overwhelming,” Cronin explained. “Booking dates as REO Speedwagon would be easy, but it’s not possible as the Kevin Cronin Band.”
Despite these challenges, Cronin considers the tour a success, noting positive audience reactions. He expressed gratitude to Styx for their support, recalling their collaboration during the 2000 Arch Allies tour.
Looking ahead, Cronin intends to complete his memoir titled “Roll With the Change: My Life Within and Without REO Speedwagon.” He acknowledges differing perspectives with Hall but is open to a future reunion with past REO members.
“When I’m ready to say goodbye, I might consider a reunion with everyone who’s been part of REO Speedwagon,” Cronin said. “It could be fun, but it’s not something I want to pursue in the near future.”
