Kevin Cronin’s Response to REO Reunion Offer Revealed by Bruce Hall
via REO Speedwagon / YouTube
REO Speedwagon bassist Bruce Hall recently shed light on the possibility of a reunion among the band’s classic lineup. In a candid conversation on Harmless Dave, Hall revealed that he, Neal Doughty, and Alan Gratzer have already reached out to frontman Kevin Cronin about performing together again. While fans have speculated for months about whether such a reunion could happen, Hall confirmed that the idea has indeed been discussed seriously.
Hall explained that the four of them—himself, Doughty, Gratzer, and Cronin—had already reunited briefly for a performance in Champaign, Illinois. “We did recently get together, the four of us, Neil and Alan and myself and Kevin, and did this thing in Champaign, Illinois with the marching band for the halftime show,” Hall said. “It was fun. We had a ball.” The performance sparked new hope among fans eager to see the group back together in full force.
However, Hall was quick to note that while the interest is there from most of the band, the final decision ultimately lies with Cronin. “Alan, Neil, and myself would like to try and get something going with Kevin, but it’s up to him,” he emphasized. “We haven’t made any decisions yet, but we’d love to see it happen.”
View this post on Instagram
Why Kevin Cronin Holds the Key
According to Hall, the group’s next steps depend entirely on Kevin Cronin’s willingness to move forward. The bassist noted that the remaining members have made their intentions clear. “Kevin knows that’s something we’ve talked about,” Hall said. “We’ve definitely talked about it, and it’s up to Kevin if he wants to.” His remarks revealed both optimism and frustration, reflecting how much the other members want to close out REO Speedwagon’s story on a high note.
Hall also pointed out that while they haven’t received a recent response from Cronin, he believes the fans deserve closure. “We haven’t heard anything recently from him about wanting to give it a shot,” Hall continued, “but I think the fans would love it and they deserve it because I don’t like the way this has happened.” His words hint at lingering disappointment over how the band’s legacy was left hanging after years of silence.
He ended on a hopeful tone, expressing his desire for a more fitting conclusion to their journey. “We need to make it so it’s a better ending—for them and for us too,” he said. Hall’s statement resonated with longtime REO followers who have been hoping for one final, proper chapter in the band’s story.
A Reunion Decades in the Making
The recent Illinois reunion wasn’t just a casual get-together. It was a historic event that brought the classic lineup back on stage for the first time since 1988. As reported by Ultimate Classic Rock, Kevin Cronin and Bruce Hall reunited with Neal Doughty and Alan Gratzer for a one-time performance during the University of Illinois Homecoming halftime show on September 27, 2025. The group performed three of their iconic hits alongside the university marching band, marking an emotional moment for both the band and fans.
This event wasn’t limited to music. The band members also served as grand marshals for the Homecoming Parade the day before, on September 26. The two-day celebration was both nostalgic and symbolic—a reminder of REO Speedwagon’s roots in Illinois and their long-lasting connection with fans across generations.
For many, the performance represented a return to where it all began. It was the kind of rare, sentimental reunion that rekindles old memories and revives the spirit of classic rock camaraderie. As Rock and Roll Garage reported, the experience was profoundly emotional for everyone involved, marking a highlight in the band’s long and winding history.
The Future of REO Speedwagon Remains Uncertain
Despite the success of the reunion event, there’s still no confirmation of whether the band will reform officially. Louder Sound noted that Cronin had been performing separately under the Kevin Cronin Band name prior to the Illinois show, avoiding use of the REO Speedwagon brand. This decision came after the band’s official retirement as a touring act at the beginning of 2025, leaving many to wonder if the name would ever resurface.
Even after the emotional reunion, both Cronin and the other members have been cautious about making future promises. According to Ultimate Classic Rock, Cronin himself suggested that while the reunion carried a message of hope and perseverance, no further plans had been made to tour or record. It was a heartfelt one-time moment, but one that left fans yearning for more.
For now, Bruce Hall’s push for a full reunion remains just that—a hope. The ball is clearly in Kevin Cronin’s court. Whether or not he chooses to revive REO Speedwagon, their brief moment together in 2025 reminded the world of the band’s enduring power, their chemistry, and the timeless appeal of their music.
