REO Speedwagon announces they will stop touring in 2025 amidst ‘irreconcilable differences’
Fans of REO Speedwagon will need to enjoy the band’s music from their home instead of at live events.
The renowned group, featuring lead vocalist Kevin Cronin, guitarist Dave Amato, bassist Bruce Hall, keyboardist Neal Doughty, and drummer Bryan Hitt, announced their decision to retire from touring starting in 2025.
In a statement posted on their social media on Monday, REO Speedwagon cited “irreconcilable differences” between Cronin and Hall as the reason for the retirement, hinting that it involves Hall’s health issues.
Hall underwent back surgery in late 2023, as mentioned in a November social media update from the band. During his recovery, bassist Matt Bissonette has been performing with the group.
“Bruce intended to be Back On the Road Again by now. If it were solely his choice, he’d be touring but it is not just up to him,” the band expressed. “The overall opinion was that his recovery did not meet the expected standards for his performance.”
“Bruce acknowledged that view and appreciates having Matt there to keep the tour ongoing this summer.”
REO Speedwagon recently completed their Summer Road Trip tour alongside pop-rock band Train, wrapping up on Wednesday. Unfortunately, they missed their final stop in Phoenix after Cronin fell ill.
While the specifics surrounding Hall and Cronin’s disagreement remain undisclosed, the band stated that neither of them “planned to retire or distance themselves from the band.”
“Neal, Kevin, and Bruce extend their gratitude to their fans for the years of support and for the extraordinary memories that they will treasure forever,” concluded the band.
REO Speedwagon has a series of shows scheduled for the fall season. They are set to perform in Rancho Mirage, California, on September 27, followed by a concert in Coarsegold, California, on September 28.
Contributing: Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic