Kevin Cronin responds to new lead singer hired by REO Speedwagon – Rock Celebrities
During an interview on The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan, REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin delved into his thoughts on Mike Murphy, the singer who replaced him in the band after his firing in 1972. Cronin recalled his reaction when Gary Richrath called him to ask him to return to the band, stating that it was long overdue. However, during Cronin’s absence, REO Speedwagon had made a couple of albums with Murphy as the lead vocalist. Cronin praised Murphy for his talents, describing him as a blue-eyed soul artist who excelled in R&B music and was proficient in playing piano, guitar, and singing with a unique voice.
When Cronin rejoined the band, the expectation among fans was that Murphy would stay on as the lead vocalist. However, Cronin noted that musically, it didn’t quite mesh with Murphy’s R&B style contrasting with Gary’s country roots. Despite the musical challenges, Cronin maintained a diplomatic view of the situation, acknowledging that he wasn’t a fan of the albums recorded during his absence. He specifically mentioned a song titled “Lost in a Dream” written by Murphy and Bruce Hall, which caught his attention. This period marked a pivotal transition in REO Speedwagon’s history where Murphy bridged the gap between two distinct musical eras.
Murphy had been involved in various music projects before joining REO Speedwagon, including work with One-Eyed Jacks and forming Silver Bullet with Bruce Hall, who later became a permanent member of the band. The stylistic shift brought by Murphy’s inclusion incorporated R&B and soul influences that deviated from REO Speedwagon’s customary rock-oriented sound. During Murphy’s three-album tenure with the band, titled Ridin’ the Storm Out, Lost in a Dream, and This Time We Mean It, he contributed to this transition phase in the band’s musical evolution.
Cronin’s return in 1976 marked the beginning of REO Speedwagon’s most commercially successful era. As he replaced Murphy permanently, the band went on to release hit albums like You Can Tune a Piano, But You Can’t Tuna Fish, and Hi Infidelity. This momentous reunion with Cronin saw the band solidify their sound, shaping the course of REO Speedwagon’s future success.
Thus, Kevin Cronin’s candid reflections on the period of the band’s transition from Mike Murphy to his return signify a critical chapter in REO Speedwagon’s illustrious history, showcasing the resilience and adaptability that ultimately led to their enduring success.