Ever found yourself belting out "Keep On Loving You" in the shower, or felt a sudden urge to rock out to "Take Me Home Tonight" during your commute? You're not alone. REO Speedwagon, the American rock band that's been serenading us since the '70s, has left an indelible mark on our playlists. But have you ever wondered, just how old are these musical legends?
Meet the Band
REO Speedwagon, hailing from Champaign, Illinois, was formed in 1967. The band's name is a nod to a Native American leader, not the speedy Italian sports car, contrary to popular belief. The lineup has seen some changes over the years, but the core members have been together since the '70s.
Kevin Cronin: The Veteran Frontman
Kevin Cronin, the band's lead vocalist and guitarist, is the oldest member. Born on April 6, 1951, Cronin is a true veteran of the music scene. He joined REO Speedwagon in 1972 and has been the band's driving force ever since. If you're a fan of classic rock, you've probably heard Cronin's distinctive voice on hits like "Ridin' the Storm Out" and "Back on the Road Again".
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Fun fact: Cronin is also a bit of a tech enthusiast. He's known to use a MacBook Pro on stage to control the band's lighting and effects. Talk about multitasking!
Dave Amato: The Youngest Gunslinger
Dave Amato, the band's lead guitarist, is the youngest member. Born on August 4, 1958, Amato joined REO Speedwagon in 1989, replacing the band's original guitarist, Gary Richrath. Amato's guitar work can be heard on REO Speedwagon's later hits like "Can't Fight This Feeling" and "Here with You".
Tip: If you're a budding guitarist, Amato's playing style is worth studying. He's known for his smooth, melodic solos and his ability to blend in with the band's harmony.
How Old Are The Reo Speedwagon Members | Detroit Chinatown
The Middle Children
Bassist Bruce Hall and keyboardist Neal Doughty are the middle children of the band. Hall, born on May 11, 1953, joined REO Speedwagon in 1977, while Doughty, born on December 20, 1947, is one of the original founding members. Both have been integral to the band's sound, with Hall's basslines driving the rhythm and Doughty's keyboards adding depth to the band's signature sound.
Fun fact: Doughty is a bit of a history buff. He's known to incorporate historical references into the band's lyrics and stage banter.
Reflections on Aging and Rock 'n' Roll
So, how old is REO Speedwagon? Well, as of 2022, Cronin is 71, Doughty is 74, Hall is 68, and Amato is 63. That's a combined age of 276 years! But despite their age, REO Speedwagon continues to tour and make music, proving that rock 'n' roll is a timeless art form.
In the grand scheme of things, age is just a number. It's about how you feel and what you do with your time. REO Speedwagon is a testament to that. They've been around for over five decades, and they're still going strong. So, the next time you're feeling a bit older or wiser, remember REO Speedwagon. They're a reminder that age is just a number, and rock 'n' roll is forever.