Overview

• Kevin Cronin confirmed he will join Bruce Hall, Neal Doughty and Alan Gratzer for University of Illinois Homecoming events on Sept. 26–27.
• The group will serve as grand marshals for the Sept. 26 parade, then take the field with Barry Houser and the Marching Illini for an REO-themed halftime medley on Sept. 27.
• Cronin called the invitation an honor and said he looks forward to hearing the Marching Illini’s tribute to the band’s songs.
• The appearance follows REO Speedwagon’s cessation of regular touring after disagreements over Hall’s post-surgery readiness and Cronin’s short-lived attempt to tour under his own name.
• Founding members Doughty and Gratzer highlighted the event’s ties to the band’s Champaign origins, and there is no indication this signals a return to full-scale touring.