March 20, 2025
Former REO Speedwagon members to reunite for one-night-only concert in Champaign
A special reunion concert celebrating the legacy of REO Speedwagon will take place on June 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois. The event, titled "Honoring The Legacy Of REO Speedwagon," will bring together former members Neal Doughty, Alan Gratzer, Bruce Hall, Terry Luttrell, Mike Murphy, and Steve Scorfina for a one-night-only performance.
A tribute to REO Speedwagon’s legacy
The concert will be a homecoming for the band, which was formed in Champaign in 1967 by Doughty and Gratzer while they were students at the University of Illinois. Initially performing at local bars and fraternity parties, the band quickly gained popularity, securing a record deal with Epic Records in 1971. Over the years, REO Speedwagon evolved, with several lineup changes before achieving mainstream success.
A special "In Memoriam" segment will honor Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin, two early members who played a crucial role in shaping REO Speedwagon’s signature sound. Fans can expect a nostalgic setlist featuring some of the band’s greatest hits, and the event may also include a music video montage showcasing highlights from their storied career.
A special "In Memoriam" segment will honor Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin, two early members who played a crucial role in shaping REO Speedwagon’s signature sound. Fans can expect a nostalgic setlist featuring some of the band’s greatest hits, and the event may also include a music video montage showcasing highlights from their storied career.
We were all asked by the city of Champaign to participate and this is a wonderful way to also raise money for our cancer research foundation
Trivia
REO Speedwagon is a well-known rock band, but what is the origin of their distinctive name?
A night for fans and a good cause
Proceeds from the concert will benefit the REO Speedwagon Foundation, which supports rare gastrointestinal cancer research at Moffitt Cancer Center. Bruce Hall stated on social media that the event is a chance to reminisce, perform with the founding members, and bid a proper farewell.
Watch the official music video for "Can't Fight This Feeling" by REO Speedwagon Listen to REO Speedwagon: ...
Tickets and notable absence
Tickets will go on sale starting March 21 at 12 p.m., with prices ranging from $25 to $185. Notably, longtime frontman Kevin Cronin will not be participating in the show as he is currently touring with his own band. While some fans still hope for a full reunion in the future, this event promises to be a powerful tribute to REO Speedwagon’s legacy and impact on rock music.
REO Speedwagon's official music video for 'Keep On Loving You'. Click to listen to REO Speedwagon on Spotify: ...
So excited for this ONE night only event, back where it all began, in MY hometown!
Wikipedia
List of REO Speedwagon members
REO Speedwagon was an American hard rock band from Champaign, Illinois. Formed in 1967, the group originally included drummer and backing vocalist Alan Gratzer, guitarist and lead vocalist Joe Matt,