Watch REO Speedwagon Members Reunite for Halftime Performance at University of Illinois Homecoming Game
via Marching Illini / YouTube
A Long-Awaited Reunion
The weekend brought a special surprise for fans of REO Speedwagon. Four surviving members of the group’s classic 1977–1988 lineup reunited for the first time in decades. Frontman Kevin Cronin, keyboardist Neal Doughty, bassist Bruce Hall, and drummer Alan Gratzer took the field at halftime during the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s homecoming football game against the University of Southern California Trojans.
It was a significant appearance, as Gratzer had not performed with the band since his retirement in 1988. Addressing the crowd, Cronin said, “Hi, everybody. I’m Kevin. On behalf of Alan, Neil, Bruce, and the entire REO Speedwagon family, I want to thank the people of Illinois, the city of Champaign-Urbana, and this great university for providing a springboard for our music that launched us on a mind-blowing musical experience. Thanks, you guys.”
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A Halftime Performance to Remember
The highlight of the event came when the four musicians joined the University’s 400-piece Marching Illini band for a medley of REO Speedwagon classics. The set included “Ridin’ the Storm Out,” written by the late guitarist Gary Richrath, along with “Roll With the Changes” and “157 Riverside Avenue.” The mix of rock and marching band energy created a unique celebration of the group’s Illinois roots.
In addition to the game-day performance, Cronin, Doughty, Hall, and Gratzer served as Grand Marshals of the school’s homecoming parade the night before. The reunion carried added weight, as Cronin had previously announced he would stop touring under the REO Speedwagon name due to disagreements with Hall.
A Weekend of Music and Football
The reunion seemed to bring a spirit of unity, and the energy carried into the game itself. The Illini defeated the Trojans in a close 34–32 victory, with quarterback Luke Altmyer completing 20 of 26 passes for 328 yards and two touchdowns.
Watch the video below:
