REO Speedwagon Reunites in Peoria to Honor Late Guitarist Gary Richrath

PEORIA, Ill. - Members of REO Speedwagon reunited Saturday, March 7, in Peoria for a surprise performance honoring late guitarist and Peoria native Gary Richrath. The event took place during a private gala at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, celebrating the opening of the first-ever exhibit dedicated to Richrath's legacy.

Vocalist Kevin Cronin was joined by drummer Alan Gratzer, bassist Bruce Hall and keyboardist Neal Doughty for a short set that included fan favorites such as "Ridin' the Storm Out," "Take It on the Run" and "Roll With the Changes." The group also performed a cover of Van Morrison's "Gloria." Former vocalist Mike Murphy, who replaced Cronin for several albums in the 1970s, and Richrath's son, Eric Richrath, also joined the group onstage. Members of the local band Revel in Red participated in the evening's performances as well.

Approximately 200 invited guests attended the private museum gala, which highlighted the newly opened Richrath exhibit. The exhibition is part of the museum's "Peoria Plays America" series and features memorabilia, including guitars and artifacts donated by Richrath's widow, Justine Richrath.

The event marked a rare gathering of surviving REO Speedwagon members. Eric Mills of the Fogelberg Foundation of Peoria said all six remaining members were invited, with only original lead singer Terry Luttrell unable to attend. "Everyone said 'yes' immediately," Mills said.

A highlight of the evening was a joint performance of "Ridin' the Storm Out" by Murphy and Cronin, reportedly the first time the two vocalists have performed together. Mills described the moment as ending with a "triumphant hug" between the singers.

Hall reflected on the reunion in a Facebook post, calling it "an amazing tribute for Gary at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Being back on stage with Mike, Kevin, Alan and Neal was awesome. Having Gary's son, Eric, join us made it all the more special."

The reunion follows a previous gathering in September in Champaign, Illinois, where Gratzer, Hall and Doughty performed with the University of Illinois marching band. Mills noted that relations among band members have improved since REO Speedwagon stopped touring at the end of 2024, citing "irreconcilable differences." "Everyone was getting along well last night and shared a lot of smiles and good memories," Mills said.

The Richrath exhibit explores the guitarist's career, beginning with his early years in Peoria's music scene. Before joining REO Speedwagon in 1970, Richrath performed with regional bands, including Suburban 9 to 5. He is credited with helping define the "Midwestern Rock" sound and shaping REO Speedwagon's transition from bar band to arena headliner.

The exhibition features a selection of guitars and memorabilia from Richrath's career, highlighting his contributions as a guitarist, songwriter and visionary within the band.

The Peoria Riverfront Museum's "Peoria Plays America" series continues to celebrate the careers of influential artists from the region.