REO Speedwagon’s story has always been one of friendship, fights, and finding their way back together. From college beginnings in the late 1960s to chart-topping anthems in the ’80s, the band became a symbol of classic rock resilience. But earlier this year, that unity seemed to fracture when bassist Bruce Hall and frontman Kevin Cronin publicly fell out over touring plans. Fans wondered if the rift would mark the end of REO’s journey.
Now, in a surprising twist, Hall and Cronin have reconciled — and they’ll reunite for a special hometown performance this month. Hall revealed on Facebook that REO Speedwagon will serve as grand marshals for the University of Illinois Homecoming Parade on Friday, September 26, and they’ll also join game-day celebrations. The following day, the band will appear with Barry Houser and the Marching Illini for a halftime show featuring a medley of REO classics.
Along with Cronin and Hall, founding members Neal Doughty (keyboards) and Alan Gratzer (drums) will be part of the performance. For Doughty and Gratzer, who first crossed paths at the University of Illinois in the mid-1960s, the return feels like a full-circle moment.
Cronin confirmed the news on his own page, calling it a powerful experience: “It has been too many years to count since the four of us have all been together! As a songwriter, there are few greater honors than to hear other artists and musicians perform my songs. I know I will be looking on in awe as the four hundred-plus Marching Illini pay tribute to the music of REO Speedwagon with an all-REO halftime presentation.”
The reunion comes after months of tension. Earlier this year, REO announced they would stop touring following disagreements between Hall and Cronin over Hall’s ability to return after back surgery. Hall admitted he worried about his posture and endurance, while Cronin suggested he sit out — a comment Hall didn’t take lightly. Cronin carried on with a solo-branded lineup, even opening for Styx on the Brotherhood of Rock Tour, but in August he revealed that group would be disbanded.
Now, with the University of Illinois shows on September 26 and 27, fans will see REO Speedwagon reunited once more — not on a long tour, but in a heartfelt homecoming.
