Kevin Cronin Shares Update on Illinois Halftime Appearance

Kevin Cronin recently commented on his role in the upcoming University of Illinois homecoming halftime show, offering clarification in a Facebook statement.

Earlier, Bruce Hall had announced that REO Speedwagon members would reunite with Cronin for the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign homecoming celebration. Cronin’s remarks, however, indicate that while he will attend, he may not perform alongside his former bandmates.

“Hi Friends, I am honored to have been approached by representatives of the University of Illinois, and invited to appear on the field for the Homecoming Game halftime show on September 27,” Cronin said. “The Marching Illini will be performing three REO Speedwagon songs, as Alan, Neal, and Bruce play along; it has been too many years to count since the four of us have all been together!”

Cronin expressed gratitude for the tribute being organized in his honor. “As a songwriter, there are few greater honors than to hear other artists and musicians perform my songs,” he added. “I know I will be looking on in awe as the four hundred-plus Marching Illini pay tribute to the music of REO Speedwagon with an all-REO halftime presentation.”

The statement confirms that Cronin will be present at the September 27 homecoming game, though it suggests he may simply be observing rather than performing with the other REO Speedwagon members.

The event is particularly meaningful for the band, as it symbolizes a return to their roots. According to University of Illinois News, REO Speedwagon was formed there in 1967 when Neal Doughty and Alan Gratzer met during their first week of classes and began playing together.

Cronin’s uncertain level of participation may be tied to the band’s current situation. The Los Angeles Times reported that REO Speedwagon plans to stop touring after 2025 due to health issues, including Bruce Hall’s back problems and Cronin’s surgery. These struggles have led to “irreconcilable differences” and a halt in their touring career. While Hall has expressed a desire to keep performing, Ultimate Classic Rock noted that the group collectively decided not to tour at the intensity fans expect, which may explain the ambiguity about future performances.

The homecoming festivities extend beyond the halftime show. University of Illinois News confirmed that longtime members Bruce Hall, Alan Gratzer, Neal Doughty, and Kevin Cronin will all return as grand marshals of the homecoming parade and participate in gameday events, celebrating their deep connection to the university.

The September 27 celebration will highlight the lasting influence of REO Speedwagon’s music, with the Marching Illini’s 400-plus members performing three of the band’s classics in what is expected to be a moving homecoming for both the musicians and their fans.