REO Speedwagon Announces Halt to Touring Citing "Irreconcilable Differences"
Dispute Centers Around Bassist Bruce Hall’s Delayed Return
In a shocking turn of events, REO Speedwagon has announced an abrupt halt to their touring schedule, citing "irreconcilable differences" within the band. The primary point of contention appears to be the delayed return of bassist Bruce Hall to the stage, following back surgery.
Frontman Kevin Cronin’s Assurance Falls Short
Last November, Cronin assured fans that Hall would return to the stage as soon as possible, following his back surgery. However, the bassist failed to make a timely recovery, leading to a disagreement within the band.
Band Statement Reveals Impasse
In a recent official statement, the band revealed that Hall had intended to return to the road by now, but "it’s not up to just him." The statement continued, "The consensus opinion was that he had not recovered sufficiently to be able to perform at the level the fans have come to expect."
Kevin Cronin’s Perspective
Cronin joined REO Speedwagon in the early 1970s and has been the band’s frontman for nearly five decades. He expressed his disappointment and frustration in a recent interview, stating, "I never thought I’d be in this situation. I thought we’d be able to work through our differences, but it seems like we’re at an impasse."
The Future of REO Speedwagon
As a result of the disagreement, REO Speedwagon has announced that they will cease touring effective January 1, 2025. The band’s future plans, including any potential new music, remain uncertain.
A Brief History of REO Speedwagon
REO Speedwagon was formed in 1967 and rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like "Keep On Loving You" and "Can’t Fight This Feeling." The band has undergone several lineup changes over the years, with Cronin and Hall being the only constant members. In 2023, co-founding keyboardist Neal Doughty announced his retirement from touring.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason for REO Speedwagon’s hiatus?
A: The band has announced an abrupt halt to touring due to "irreconcilable differences" within the band, primarily centering around bassist Bruce Hall’s delayed return.
Q: When did the dispute begin?
A: The disagreement reportedly started when Hall failed to make a timely recovery from his back surgery, which was expected to be completed by November 2023.
Q: Will REO Speedwagon continue to record music?
A: The band has made no mention of any future plans to record new music.
Q: What is the status of the band’s remaining members?
A: Co-founding keyboardist Neal Doughty has retired from touring, while bassist Bruce Hall and frontman Kevin Cronin will continue to pursue other musical endeavors.
Q: What does this mean for fans?
A: REO Speedwagon’s hiatus marks the end of an era for the band, but fans can still enjoy their extensive discography and continue to support the individual members in their future projects.
