The iconic American rock band REO Speedwagon has been making music for over half a century. Formed in the late 1960s, their journey to musical stardom has been filled with ups and downs, but they have continued to produce catchy and memorable hits that have resonated with fans all over the world.
REO Speedwagon's Early Days
The band's name was inspired by the REO Speed Wagon, a light motor truck manufactured by the REO Motor Car Company. The band was formed by keyboardist Neal Doughty and drummer Alan Gratzer in 1967 while they were both students at the University of Illinois. They were joined by guitarist Joe Matt and bassist Mike Blair, and started to gain local recognition with their live performances.
In 1970, the band released their debut album, titled "REO Speedwagon", which received moderate success. The band's second album, "R.E.O./T.W.O." released in 1972, was a significant step forward for the band in terms of commercial success.
REO Speedwagon's Rise to Fame
The album "R.E.O./T.W.O." featured the hit single "Golden Country", which received significant airplay on the radio. However, it was the band's eighth studio album "Hi Infidelity", released in 1980, that propelled them to global fame. The album sold over ten million copies and included hit singles like "Keep On Loving You" and "Take It on the Run". These songs became instant classics and helped to cement the band's place in rock history.
Throughout the 80s, REO Speedwagon continued to produce hit records that featured catchy hooks, memorable melodies, and epic guitar solos. Songs like "Can't Fight This Feeling", "I Do' Wanna Know", and "In My Dreams" are examples of the band's ability to create music that truly resonates with their fans.
REO Speedwagon's Legacy
REO Speedwagon's impact on the world of rock music is hard to overstate. Their ability to blend pop sensibilities with hard rock riffs made them a fan favorite. They inspired countless musicians to pick up an instrument and try to create something special.
The band's legacy is also evident in the awards and accolades they have received over the years. They were inducted into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015 and have been nominated for two Grammy Awards.
Taking REO Speedwagon Home
If you are a fan of REO Speedwagon, you can take their music home with you by downloading their albums on Mediaclub. The platform offers hassle-free downloads in high-quality audio formats, so you can enjoy your favorite tracks in the way they were meant to be heard.
Their music continues to inspire new generations of rock musicians, and their legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history is secure. From their early days playing small clubs in Illinois to their global success in the 80s and beyond, REO Speedwagon has left an indelible mark on the world of music.
If you haven't listened to REO Speedwagon before, take some time to check out their music, and you just might find yourself humming their tunes all day long!
