Kevin Cronin has shared an in-depth account of the circumstances that led to the unexpected disbandment of REO Speedwagon, shedding light on the internal struggles faced by the iconic rock band. During a candid discussion with Sirius XM?s Eddie Trunk, Cronin expressed, ?Shit happens in bands, especially bands that have been together as long as we have.? He acknowledged that tensions had been building behind the scenes, hinting at underlying issues that fans might not have been aware of.

Cronin elaborated on the situation surrounding bassist Bruce Hall, who made the difficult decision to step away from the band while recuperating from back surgery. Initially, Hall anticipated a brief hiatus of a few months, but as time passed, he ultimately opted to sit out the entire touring season of 2024. Reflecting on this, Cronin revealed that he had an inkling of Hall?s choice, stating, ?I saw the X-ray and I’m like, dude, ?I don’t see how you’re going to be ready by March 1st, June 1st.?? He advised Hall to take a full year off, a suggestion that Hall did not take well.

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As the summer of 2024 approached, Cronin and Hall remained in touch, even as REO Speedwagon continued to tour with a substitute bassist. At one point, discussions about Hall?s return ensued. However, Cronin felt that Hall?s demands were excessive and unmanageable. ?I found the two main demands? one of them would have been irresponsible for me to go along with. And the other one was just impossible for me to go along with,? he explained, choosing not to disclose the specific demands made by Hall.

Compounding the situation, rumors about the discord within REO Speedwagon began to circulate online, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and speculation. “The specifics and the details of what goes on in rock bands are meant to stay within the band,? Cronin remarked to Trunk. ?What I’ve heard has been circulated online is that I somehow prevented Bruce from touring, from coming out on the road last year. And that’s just inaccurate. It’s just not the truth.?

With both parties unable to find common ground, REO Speedwagon made the difficult announcement that it would cease touring activities, culminating in their final performance on December 21.

Kevin Cronin Reiterates His Commitment to REO Speedwagon

Cronin expressed regret that Hall?s potential return could have been seamless had outside influences not leaked sensitive information regarding their discussions. ?It just got ugly,? the singer lamented, while also addressing a rumor suggesting he wanted to end REO Speedwagon to pursue a solo career. ?That’s the exact opposite of what happened,? he emphasized. ?I never quit REO Speedwagon. I would never quit REO Speedwagon. I’ve spent my adult life working to enhance REO Speedwagon and always lift the bar on REO Speedwagon to make the band better and better and better.?

In a contrasting narrative, Hall publicly shared his perspective, stating on social media that ?No one forced [Cronin] to rebrand. He decided he wanted to tour with the sub bassist instead of me.? Hall asserted that Cronin “quit” the band, emphasizing that he had been eager to continue touring following his recovery from surgery.

Kevin Cronin Expresses Best Wishes for Bruce Hall

As Cronin looks ahead, he is gearing up for the summer tour alongside Styx and Don Felder, branded as the Kevin Cronin Band. He assures fans that the performances will still encapsulate the essence of an REO Speedwagon experience. Despite the tumultuous split, Cronin remains optimistic about the possibility of reuniting with Hall for a proper farewell tour in the future.

?I wish Bruce nothing but the best,? Cronin stated sincerely. ?We were friends for a long time. But what are you going to do? This is where we’re at.?