REO Speedwagon stands as one of America’s most enduring rock bands, delivering powerful ballads and energetic rock anthems that have resonated with audiences for over five decades. From their early hard rock roots to their arena-rock dominance in the 1980s, the band has created a catalog of unforgettable songs that continue to inspire new generations of music lovers. This comprehensive guide explores the twenty greatest REO Speedwagon tracks that have defined their legendary career and cemented their place in rock history.
Can’t Fight This Feeling
Released in 1984 on the album “Wheels Are Turnin’,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling” became REO Speedwagon’s second number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains their most recognizable power ballad. The song’s gradual build from gentle piano introduction to soaring rock crescendo perfectly captures the emotional journey of surrendering to love after years of denial. Kevin Cronin’s heartfelt vocals combined with the band’s masterful instrumental arrangement created a timeless anthem that has become a staple at weddings and romantic occasions worldwide. The track’s commercial success helped propel “Wheels Are Turnin'” to multi-platinum status and solidified REO Speedwagon’s position as masters of the power ballad genre.
Keep On Loving You
“Keep On Loving You” marked a pivotal moment in REO Speedwagon’s career when it topped the charts in 1981, becoming their first number-one single. Featured on the breakthrough album “Hi Infidelity,” this power ballad perfectly blends Kevin Cronin’s vulnerable lyrics about fighting for a troubled relationship with the band’s signature rock sound. The song’s iconic synthesizer introduction and memorable guitar solo helped define the sound of early 1980s rock radio. Its emotional depth and universal theme of persevering through romantic difficulties resonated with millions of listeners and established the template for countless power ballads that followed.
Take It on the Run
This 1981 hit from “Hi Infidelity” showcases REO Speedwagon’s ability to craft compelling narratives about relationship uncertainty and rumors. The song reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and features one of the band’s most distinctive opening riffs that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Kevin Cronin’s lyrics explore the painful territory of hearing secondhand information about a partner’s potential infidelity, delivered with both vulnerability and defiance. The track’s driving rhythm and memorable chorus made it a radio staple and demonstrated the band’s versatility beyond pure ballad territory.
Time for Me to Fly
From their 1978 album “You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can’t Tuna Fish,” this song represents REO Speedwagon’s earlier, more straightforward rock sound before their pop-rock evolution. The track explores themes of personal liberation and moving on from relationships that have run their course, with Cronin’s lyrics resonating with anyone who has faced the difficult decision to leave. Its mid-tempo groove and uplifting message about self-empowerment made it a concert favorite and a significant radio hit. The song’s enduring popularity demonstrates how REO Speedwagon could balance commercial appeal with genuine emotional authenticity.
In Your Letter
Another gem from “Hi Infidelity” (1980), “In Your Letter” showcases the album’s consistent quality and the band’s ability to explore different facets of romantic communication. The song examines the disconnect between written words and true feelings, with its driving beat and urgent vocal delivery creating a sense of desperation and confusion. Gary Richrath’s guitar work shines throughout the track, providing powerful punctuation to Cronin’s emotional vocals. This deep cut from their most successful album demonstrates why “Hi Infidelity” held the number-one position on the album charts for 15 consecutive weeks.
Keep Pushin’
From the 1976 album “R.E.O.,” this track represents the band’s harder-edged sound from their pre-mainstream-breakthrough era. “Keep Pushin'” features more aggressive guitar work and a raw energy that appeals to fans of classic rock and proto-arena rock styles. The song’s message of persistence and determination resonated with the band’s growing fanbase during their years of constant touring and gradual climb toward superstardom. Its inclusion in their live sets during the late 1970s helped build the loyal following that would eventually propel them to massive commercial success.
Ridin’ the Storm Out
This 1973 title track from the album “Ridin’ the Storm Out” became one of REO Speedwagon’s signature songs and remains a concert staple decades later. The song’s extended instrumental sections showcase the band’s musical prowess and their roots in progressive and hard rock styles. Gary Richrath’s guitar work is particularly impressive, featuring powerful riffs and extended solos that demonstrate his underrated abilities as a rock guitarist. The track’s metaphorical lyrics about weathering difficult times have given it enduring relevance, making it an anthem of resilience that transcends its original context.
In My Dreams
Featured on 1987’s “Life as We Know It,” “In My Dreams” continued REO Speedwagon’s streak of radio-friendly rock hits into the late 1980s. The song combines the band’s established power ballad formula with contemporary production techniques that kept their sound current during a changing musical landscape. Its lyrics explore the theme of longing and romantic fantasy, delivered with the emotional sincerity that had become the band’s trademark. The track reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that REO Speedwagon could still compete commercially even as musical trends shifted.
Back on the Road Again
From the 1979 album “Nine Lives,” this energetic track celebrates the touring lifestyle that has been central to REO Speedwagon’s identity throughout their career. The song captures the excitement and restlessness of life on the road, with its upbeat tempo and driving rhythm reflecting the constant motion of band life. Its authentic portrayal of the musician’s experience touring resonated with both the band’s peers and their audience. The track’s guitar-driven sound represents a bridge between their harder rock past and their more polished future direction.
One Lonely Night
Another highlight from “Wheels Are Turnin'” (1984), “One Lonely Night” demonstrates the album’s consistent quality and the band’s mastery of mid-tempo rock arrangements. The song explores themes of isolation and heartache with Kevin Cronin’s expressive vocals conveying genuine emotional pain. Its memorable melody and polished production exemplify the sophisticated arena rock sound that REO Speedwagon perfected during their commercial peak. The track’s commercial performance helped sustain “Wheels Are Turnin'” as one of the year’s best-selling albums.
That Ain’t Love
This track from “Life as We Know It” (1987) showcases REO Speedwagon’s ability to craft upbeat rock songs with substance beyond their ballad repertoire. The song’s direct lyrics and energetic delivery created a radio-friendly hit that addressed the difference between genuine affection and superficial attraction. Its guitar-driven arrangement and catchy chorus demonstrated that the band could still produce compelling rock tracks alongside their famous power ballads. The song’s chart performance proved that REO Speedwagon’s appeal extended beyond slow-dance favorites.
Live Every Moment
From “Wheels Are Turnin'” (1984), this track embodies an uplifting philosophy about making the most of life and embracing each day fully. The song’s inspirational message combined with its melodic rock arrangement made it a favorite among fans seeking positive, life-affirming music. Its inclusion on an album dominated by love songs provided important variety and demonstrated the band’s thematic range. The track’s enduring message about living without regrets continues to resonate with listeners seeking motivational music.
Golden Country
Featured on the 1972 album “R.E.O./T.W.O.,” this earlier track reveals REO Speedwagon’s progressive rock influences and their willingness to experiment with different musical styles. The song’s more complex arrangement and extended instrumental passages showcase the band’s musical ambitions before they streamlined their sound for mainstream success. Gary Richrath’s guitar work particularly shines, demonstrating the technical proficiency that would become a hallmark of the band’s sound. This deep cut appeals to fans interested in exploring the band’s artistic evolution and their roots in early 1970s rock.
I Do’ Wanna Know
Another track from “Wheels Are Turnin'” (1984), this song explores the painful theme of willful ignorance in relationships when the truth might be too difficult to face. Kevin Cronin’s lyrics capture the internal conflict between wanting honesty and fearing what that honesty might reveal. The song’s emotional complexity is matched by its sophisticated musical arrangement that balances rock energy with melodic sensibility. Its performance on rock radio helped establish “Wheels Are Turnin'” as one of the decade’s defining rock albums.
Tough Guys
From “Hi Infidelity” (1980), this track examines masculine vulnerability and the facade of strength that people maintain to hide their emotional pain. The song’s harder edge and driving rhythm provided important contrast to the album’s ballads while maintaining the emotional depth that characterized the entire record. Its exploration of gender expectations and emotional authenticity gave it resonance beyond typical rock themes. The track’s inclusion on REO Speedwagon’s most successful album ensured it reached millions of listeners during the band’s commercial peak.
Music Man
Another selection from “R.E.O./T.W.O.” (1972), “Music Man” represents the band’s early explorations of their identity and their relationship with their craft. The song’s self-referential lyrics about the musician’s life combined with its progressive rock arrangements showcase the band’s artistic ambitions during their formative years. Its complex structure and instrumental prowess demonstrate that REO Speedwagon possessed serious musical chops long before they became known primarily for radio-friendly hits. This track rewards careful listening and appeals to fans of early 1970s progressive and hard rock.
Say You Love Me or Say Goodnight
Featured on “You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can’t Tuna Fish” (1978), this track presents an ultimatum about relationship clarity with its direct, no-nonsense approach to romantic communication. The song’s straightforward rock arrangement and memorable chorus made it accessible while its emotional honesty gave it depth. Its performance on rock radio helped build momentum for the album that would become REO Speedwagon’s breakthrough to platinum status. The track demonstrates the band’s ability to address relationship dynamics with both sophistication and commercial appeal.
I Wish You Were There
From “Hi Infidelity” (1980), this song explores the longing felt during separation and the desire to share experiences with absent loved ones. Its mid-tempo arrangement and emotionally resonant lyrics fit perfectly within the album’s thematic exploration of relationship challenges and emotional vulnerability. The track’s production quality exemplifies the polished sound that helped “Hi Infidelity” achieve massive commercial success. Its inclusion on one of the best-selling albums of the 1980s ensured it reached a massive audience during REO Speedwagon’s commercial zenith.
Roll with the Changes
This 1978 track from “You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can’t Tuna Fish” became one of REO Speedwagon’s most enduring rock anthems and a concert staple. The song’s powerful opening riff and driving rhythm section create an irresistible energy that has made it a favorite among rock radio programmers for decades. Kevin Cronin’s lyrics about embracing life’s inevitable transformations delivered with conviction and passion resonate with listeners facing their own periods of change. The track’s extended instrumental breaks showcase the band’s musicianship while maintaining commercial accessibility, demonstrating their ability to balance artistic expression with popular appeal.
Sweet Time
Featured on the 1982 album “Good Trouble,” this track continued REO Speedwagon’s commercial momentum following the massive success of “Hi Infidelity.” The song’s more relaxed groove and romantic lyrics provided a different flavor compared to their harder-rocking material while maintaining their signature melodic sensibility. Its chart performance helped establish “Good Trouble” as a worthy follow-up to their breakthrough album, though it couldn’t quite match the unprecedented success of its predecessor. The track demonstrates the band’s versatility and their ability to explore different tempos and moods within their established sound.
If you’re passionate about discovering more incredible tracks, explore our extensive collection of songs across all genres. For audiophiles seeking the perfect listening experience, check out our detailed guides where you can compare earbuds and compare headphones to find the ideal equipment for enjoying REO Speedwagon’s dynamic range and emotional depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is REO Speedwagon’s biggest hit song?
“Keep On Loving You” is generally considered REO Speedwagon’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981 and becoming their signature song. The power ballad from the “Hi Infidelity” album achieved massive commercial success and remains their most recognizable track worldwide. Its emotional lyrics and memorable melody have made it a timeless classic that continues to receive significant airplay on classic rock radio stations.
Which REO Speedwagon album sold the most copies?
“Hi Infidelity” released in 1980 is REO Speedwagon’s best-selling album, achieving diamond certification with over 10 million copies sold in the United States alone. The album spent 15 consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and produced multiple hit singles including “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It on the Run.” Its massive commercial success represented the peak of the band’s popularity and made it one of the best-selling rock albums of the 1980s.
When did REO Speedwagon form and who are the key members?
REO Speedwagon formed in 1967 in Champaign, Illinois, and has undergone several lineup changes throughout their long career. The most commercially successful lineup featured Kevin Cronin on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Gary Richrath on lead guitar, Neal Doughty on keyboards, Bruce Hall on bass, and Alan Gratzer on drums. Kevin Cronin and Neal Doughty have been the most consistent members, with Doughty being the only original member still actively touring with the band.
What does the name REO Speedwagon mean?
The band took their name from the REO Speed Wagon, a flatbed truck manufactured by the REO Motor Car Company in the early 20th century. Neal Doughty, the band’s keyboardist and founding member, reportedly found the name in an old transportation history book while attending the University of Illinois. The vintage truck name gave the band a distinctive identity that evoked both American industrial history and the spirit of mobility and power.
Has REO Speedwagon released any new music recently?
REO Speedwagon continues to tour extensively but has released limited new studio material in recent years, focusing primarily on performing their classic hits for devoted fans. The band released “Not So Silent Night…Christmas with REO Speedwagon” in 2009, featuring holiday classics alongside original seasonal songs. While they haven’t released a full studio album of original rock material in over a decade, the band remains active on the touring circuit and occasionally releases live recordings and compilation albums for their fanbase.
What genre of music is REO Speedwagon known for?
REO Speedwagon is primarily known for arena rock and power ballads, though their early work featured harder rock and progressive rock elements. The band successfully transitioned from their 1970s blues-influenced hard rock sound to the polished, radio-friendly rock that dominated the 1980s. Their ability to craft both energetic rock anthems and emotional ballads made them versatile performers who could appeal to diverse audiences within the broader rock music spectrum.
Did REO Speedwagon win any major music awards?
While REO Speedwagon achieved massive commercial success, they received relatively few major music industry awards despite their popularity and influence. The band earned an American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Band, Duo, or Group in 1982 during the height of their success. Their lack of Grammy wins despite multiple hit songs and albums has been noted by music critics, though their commercial achievements and enduring popularity speak to their significant impact on rock music.
What happened to original guitarist Gary Richrath?
Gary Richrath, whose powerful guitar work defined much of REO Speedwagon’s sound, left the band in 1989 due to creative differences and personal issues. He pursued various solo and collaborative projects after his departure but never achieved the same level of commercial success he enjoyed with REO Speedwagon. Tragically, Richrath passed away in September 2015 at the age of 65, and the band has paid tribute to his contributions and legacy in subsequent performances and interviews.