When REO Speedwagon dropped ‘Hi Infidelity’ in 1980, it was more than just another album release; it was a seismic shift in the band’s trajectory. Known for their hard-edged 1970s sound, the Champaign, Illinois band took a bold leap into a more commercial, radio-friendly domain. However, according to former drummer Alan Gratzer, this transition was less about selling out and more about growing up. ‘You start a band in your early 20s, and by the time ‘Hi Infidelity’ was out, we’d been through marriages, kids, and life changes,’ Gratzer shared with UCR. This evolution saw them embracing a slower tempo without sacrificing energy, thanks to Kevin Cronin’s knack for crafting emotive ballads like ‘Keep on Loving You.’
The album wasn’t just a commercial pivot; it was a creative collaboration that finally harmonized the divergent musical paths of Cronin and Gary Richrath. As keyboardist Neal Doughty recalls, ‘Kevin was always a little acoustic, and Gary was always a little bit shred.’ Their combined efforts on ‘Hi Infidelity’ struck a chord both in the studio and on stage, where the slower tempo tracks like ‘Keep on Loving You’ and ‘Can’t Fight This Feeling’ became anthems that energized live audiences.
As the band prepares for a special homecoming show in Champaign, they are revisiting the rich tapestry of their musical journey. This includes a heartfelt tribute to the late Gary Richrath, whose son, Eric, will join them on stage. ‘What a rock star that guy was,’ Doughty reminisced. Richrath’s unique guitar style, described as having ‘swagger,’ left an indelible mark on the band’s sound.
This reflective period has also shone a spotlight on former bassist Gregg Philbin’s contributions, with Gratzer noting the newfound appreciation for Philbin’s innovative bass lines. As the legacy members gear up for what might be their final bow as REO Speedwagon, bassist Bruce Hall sees it as a moment of closure and gratitude towards their enduring fan base.
‘ReO Speedwagon’s ‘Hi Infidelity’ wasn’t just a chart-topping album; it was a moment that redefined the band’s identity and legacy, setting them on a path to rock immortality.
