Wow !! What Do You Think About REO Speedwagon Playing at a Walmart in Elk Grove Village , Illinois ?

Question

I've always loved REO . Ahhh some of their albums got a little too mushy , but they're great anyway . I grew up in the same neighborhood as lead singer Kevin Cronin , but never knew him . But I did get to see REO at a festival in Oak Lawn a few years back and it was awesome . And once , while riding on a train , the train conductor heard us talking about REO , and he told us that the Cronin's were his neighbors . He went on to tell us stories about when Cronin was a child .

What a unique concept. . . . . playing at a Walmart to promote the release of their new CD !!

What do you think about the concept and REO ?

Answer 1

I saw two of the guys in REO Speedwagon play at our Walmart here in Eagan, Minnesota today. The keyboard player lives here, but he didn't show up. (Probably was too embarrassed.)

It was kinda sad, actually. Walmart blocked off a small section in the men's department. The guys sat on stools, and played two acoustic songs: "Ridin' the Storm Out" and "Time For Me to Fly." I thought it was odd that they were supposed to be plugging a new album, but didn't play any of the new songs.

What bothered me the most was hearing REO's signature song, Ridin' the Storm Out, turned into a sappy acoustic tune. They totally ruined that song. In my opinion, Kevin Cronin has lost his voice. It was very raspy, and he didn't quite hit the notes. Bruce Hall, the bass player, was playing an acoustic guitar like it was a bass. He didn't say much the whole time.

If there were 100 people there, I'd be surprised. Probably 1/3 bought the new CD to have it autographed. I went ahead and bought one and had them sign it. I figured if I didn't like it, I could always sell it on eBay.

The songs are OK. They really don't sound anything like REO Speedwagon. More like Air Supply or Michael Bolton.

Answer 2

We had the distinct displeasure of working at Riverfest when REO Speedwagon played here in the early 1990's. Kevin Cronin was in full "rock-star" mode. Not only did he throw a full blown hissy fit because we didn't have the "correct" brand of bottled water, but he refused to talk to any of the "servants" who were in charge of getting him everything he wanted.

He also refused to play because he didn't like the "beer wall" that separated the drinking age audience members from the underaged section. Someone finally stepped up to Cronin and said "You can choose not to play, but you need to explain why you're not performing to all those people waiting for you." He ranted and raved, then pouted. After a long delay, he finally went on stage.

REO used to revisit every summer for a different festival/fair/event, but the crowds got smaller and smaller. Hopefully, Cronin is less arrogant now and these Walmart events will humble him. He was really an egotistical jerk.

Answer 3

REO has been playing school carnivals, corporate cruises, state fairs and backyard BBQ's for many years now. If the band can't draw crowds anymore, they really have little alternative except to go where people are.

The problem is, these "Wal-Mart concerts" are in-store events with only 2 members of the band singing a couple of songs and autographing the CD's you buy.

REO's original lead guitar player, Gary Richrath is gone, and so is the drummer, Alan Gratzer. On the CD they're promoting, even the original keyboard player, Neal Doughty, is replaced. If this version of "REO Speedwagon" showed up, would anyone even recognize them now, with so many original members missing?

Answer 4

When REO Speedwagon plays at Walmart, you'll know exactly who they are. Kevin Cronin will be the frail, old guy wearing a bright blue vest and greeting people at the door when they come in. After he hands you a Walmart ad, he'll yell out in a barely audible whisper "Last one, people!"

Answer 5

I think it's a better take on the mall shows that some teen singers have tried in the past (Tiffany and Avril). REO is sure to maintain their position in pop/rock history so they've nothing to lose. I bet this is a very well-calculated move on their part and by Wal-Mart too! Who can lose here? Nobody - the band will set a precedent, the store will surely garner kudos for setting htis up, and the fans, well they are the ultimate winners, aren't they? Gosh I wish I lived closer than I do. Hope you enjoy it if you get to see the set.

Answer 6

This is what I think!!

I can't fight this feeling any longer
And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship, has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show

I tell myself that I can't hold out forever
I said there is no reason for my fear
Cause I feel so secure when we're together
You give my life direction
You make everything so clear

And even as I wander
I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter's night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might

And I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
It's time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever

Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore

My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I've been running round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I'm following you, girl
Cause you take me to the places that alone I'd never find

And even as I wander I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window on a cold, dark winter's night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might

And I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
It's time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever

Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crushing through your door
Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore.

I love that song. Anyway, I saw them about 15 years ago at St. Bonaventure University. They were wonderful. I have only ever been to 2 concerts before and I will NOT tell you who the other "band" was. LOL. I have heard of some bands starting out at Walmart before they made it big. This might be what they need to reboost their career!

Answer 7

I think this has gone full circle. I remember a friend of mine in college telling me about his brother seeing REO perform in Illinois as a bar band before they broke out with a record deal. I saw them twice at huge arena shows. Now they are playing in what the electronics section of Walmart or its parking to lot. I liked REO when I was in college but this proves to me I am old and I worry about the bands of my youth "taking it on the road" to the parking lot of my local retailer. Please would the Beatles (if all alive) possibly reunite at my local gym to play for us oldies trying to still stay in shape, I thank God that can't happen. To me its kind of depressing to see this. But maybe others like it.

Answer 8

Is Elk Grove west of Peoria? I love Reo. The Super power ballads that they sing are wonderful.

Answer 9

Old School! In the House! "Hi-Infidelity" was wore out in my Cassette Player in the car. Let's talk about the good ol' days. As far as the Concept? Things have changed so much. I say go for it. Whatever gets the Music out there. Good Morning to ya! The weekend was a Blast!

Answer 10

Amelia Joni Mitchell