REO Speedwagon Jams With Chicago at First Merit Bank Pavilion

By A.J. ROCCAFORTE

Oak Lawn’s most prominent celebrity -- Kevin Cronin -- joined his bandmates from REO Speedwagon for another exciting summer concert at Northerly Island’s First Merit Bank Pavilion.

The boys were joined by another homegrown classic rock bank, Chicago. Both bands brought their hits back to their “Sweet Home Chicago” last Saturday.

Although both bands have ties to Chicago and Illinois, the two bands had never played together before until this year, despite both groups knocking around Chicago in 1967.

Cronin, lead singer for REO, grew up in Oak Lawn and visits his hometown quite frequently while on the road. His parents reportedly still live in the southwest suburb.

While a senior at Brother Rice High School, Cronin was in charge of the prom entertainment and as legend has it, called up Jim Peterik, then of Ides of March and before Survivor, and talked Peterik into playing at the dance.

Cronin led REO Speedwagon through an eleven-song set list, which even included a new song that made its debut on the tour.

Following REO, the evening’s headliner, Chicago, took the stage for their own set with their signature “rock band with horns” style.

Before it was all over, the duo shared the stage for a unique encore, each playing a few songs of their own with the help of one-another.

The two bands weren’t the only ones sharing the vocals; the crowd didn’t hesitate taking to their feet to belt out the lyrics to a few popular hits that were saved for the finale.

If you’re a fan of their music, there’s still the opportunity to see REO Speedwagon and Chicago live before they wrap up their summer tour together on September 9th.

For additional tour dates, visit the REO Speedwagon tour site and Chicago’s tour site.

For a gallery of pictures from the show, go to AJ Roccaforte Music.

PHOTO: REO front man Kevin Cronin at the First Merit Bank Pavilion. | A.J. Roccaforte