REO Speedwagon, the iconic ‘80s band, announced on social media will no longer perform together.
“To our fans: Bruce has intended to be back on the road again by now,” a statement on the band’s Instagram page read. “If it were up to just him, he’d be back on tour … but it’s not up to just him. The consensus opinion was that he had not recovered sufficiently to be able to perform at the level the fans have come to expect. 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.
“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,” the statement continued. “Due to his complex situation, irreconcilable differences arose between Bruce and Kevin. 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.”
The Grammy-nominated group, which consists of lead singer Kevin Cronin, guitarist Dave Amato, bassist Bruce Hall, keyboardist Neal Doughty and drummer Bryan Hitt, has concert dates remaining in 2024, but the band will retire from touring next year.
Hall had back surgery in late 2023, according to a November social media post from the band. Musician Matt Bissonette has been filling in for the bassist.
Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.
