Music

Who Is the Lead Singer of REO Speedwagon

Kevin Cronin is the lead singer of REO Speedwagon, serving as the band's primary vocalist and rhythm guitarist. He joined the band in 1972, left in 1977, returned in 1978, and h...

Mara Ellison
Who Is the Lead Singer of REO Speedwagon

Current Lead Singer of REO Speedwagon

Kevin Cronin is the lead singer of REO Speedwagon, serving as the band's primary vocalist and rhythm guitarist. He joined the band in 1972, left in 1977, returned in 1978, and has remained the frontman through the latest touring and recording cycles. Cronin handles lead vocals on the majority of REO Speedwagon's hits and is credited as the main voice on current releases and live performances.

The current REO Speedwagon lineup features Kevin Cronin on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, alongside longtime members such as Bruce Hall on bass and Dave Amato on lead guitar. This configuration has defined the band's modern sound and stage presence, with Cronin anchoring the vocal arrangements and serving as the primary spokesperson for the group.

REO Speedwagon Vocal Lineup History

REO Speedwagon was founded in 1967 at the University of Illinois by Neal Doughty and Alan Gratzer, with original vocalist Terry Luttrell fronting the band through the early 1970s. Kevin Cronin replaced him in 1972, briefly left, and then returned in 1978 to take over as the definitive lead singer, guiding the band through its peak commercial period.

The band's classic hit albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s feature Cronin's lead vocals on tracks such as "Keep On Loving You," "Take It on the Run," and "Can't Fight This Feeling." These records established REO Speedwagon as a staple of arena rock, with Cronin's voice becoming the signature sound associated with the group's biggest chart successes.

Key Albums and Vocal Contributions

Albums such as "Hi Infidelity" and "Good Trouble" cemented Kevin Cronin's role as the lead singer of REO Speedwagon, with his songwriting and vocal performances driving the band's mainstream appeal. These records produced multiple top 40 singles and remain central to the band's catalog and ongoing live setlists.

Live Performances and Current Touring

In current REO Speedwagon tours, Kevin Cronin continues as the lead singer, performing the band's classic hits alongside newer material. The band maintains an active touring schedule across North America, with Cronin's vocal performance serving as the focal point of the live show and a direct link to the band's legacy.

Band Member Roles and Responsibilities

Within REO Speedwagon, Kevin Cronin's role extends beyond lead vocals to include songwriting, vocal arrangements, and stage leadership. Other members such as Bruce Hall, Dave Amato, and Bryan Hitt support the core vocal and melodic identity shaped by Cronin, ensuring consistency with the band's established sound.

Recent Releases and Projects

Recent REO Speedwagon releases and reissues continue to highlight Kevin Cronin as the lead singer, with his voice central to both archival material and new recordings. The band's ongoing presence on streaming platforms and classic rock radio reinforces Cronin's status as the frontman and primary vocal identity of REO Speedwagon.

For an overview of REO Speedwagon's history and members, see the band's profile on AllMusic. Additional details on the band's chart performance and recordings can be found on Billboard.

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