Out of Season REO Speedwagon: A Deep Dive into the Band's Classic Hits Beyond "Keep On Loving You"

Hello there, music enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the archives to shine a spotlight on REO Speedwagon, a band that's been rocking our world since the '70s. You might know them from their massive hit, "Keep On Loving You", but there's so much more to this legendary group than just that one song. So, grab your air guitars and let's explore some of their out-of-season gems that'll make you fall in love with REO Speedwagon all over again! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and out of season reo speedwagon.

The Early Years: Raw Rock and Roll

Before they became household names, REO Speedwagon was a hard-rocking band from Champaign, Illinois. Formed in 1967, they spent their early years honing their skills on the club circuit, playing covers and originals that showcased their raw energy and bluesy roots. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1971, is a testament to this era, with tracks like "157 Riverside Avenue" and "Ride the Wind" displaying the band's early promise.

The Turning Point: "Ridin' the Storm Out"

The '70s were a time of change for REO Speedwagon. They signed with Epic Records and underwent some lineup changes, but they never lost their hunger for rock and roll. In 1976, they released "Ridin' the Storm Out", an album that would become a turning point in their career. The title track, a driving rocker with a memorable guitar riff, is a highlight, but the album also showcases the band's versatility with songs like the bluesy "Big Eddie" and the piano-driven ballad "Lost in a Dream".

The '80s: REO Speedwagon's Rise to Fame

The '80s were REO Speedwagon's time to shine. They scored a string of hit albums and singles, becoming one of the decade's most successful arena rock bands. But don't worry, we're not going to focus on the obvious hits. We're here to explore the less-talked-about gems that'll make your playlist shine like a hidden treasure!

"Take It on the Run": More Than Just a Hit Single

Released in 1980, "Take It on the Run" is an album that every REO Speedwagon fan should have in their collection. Sure, you know the title track, but the album is packed with other gems that deserve your attention. "Tough Guys" is a hard-hitting rocker with a killer guitar solo, while "Don't Let Him Go" is a power ballad that'll have you reaching for the tissues. And let's not forget "In Your Letter", a heartfelt rocker that's as catchy as it is emotional.

"Good Trouble": The Album That Keeps on Giving

"Good Trouble", released in 1982, is another '80s gem from REO Speedwagon. While it might not have spawned any massive hits, it's an album that's full of solid gold rock and roll. "I Do Wanna Know" is a driving rocker with a chorus that'll get stuck in your head for days, while "Keep the Fire Burnin'" is a bluesy rocker that showcases the band's roots. And then there's "Sweet Time", a power ballad that's as romantic as it is rockin'.

The Later Years: Still Rockin'

Even as the '80s gave way to the '90s and beyond, REO Speedwagon continued to pump out the hits. Sure, their sound might have evolved a bit, but their commitment to rock and roll remained steadfast. Here are a couple of later-era tracks that'll remind you why you fell in love with REO Speedwagon in the first place.

"Can't Fight This Feeling": A '90s Power Ballad

Released in 1990, "The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken", yes, you read that right, is an album that's often overlooked in the REO Speedwagon discography. But it's worth a listen, especially for fans of power ballads. "Can't Fight This Feeling" is a soaring anthem that's as emotional as it is catchy, with a chorus that'll have you belting out the lyrics at the top of your lungs.

"Light in the Hole": A Rockin' Comeback

"Find Your Own Way Home", released in 2007, is REO Speedwagon's most recent album. And while it might not have spawned any massive hits, it's an album that's full of solid gold rock and roll. "Light in the Hole" is a driving rocker that's as catchy as it is energetic, with a chorus that'll have you singing along in no time.

REO Speedwagon: More Than Just a One-Hit Wonder

So there you have it, folks! A journey through the lesser-known hits of REO Speedwagon. From their early years to their '90s comeback, this band has been cranking out the hits, and we hope this little exploration has reminded you of why you fell in love with them in the first place. So, the next time you're in the mood for some classic rock, don't just reach for "Keep On Loving You". Give one of these out-of-season gems a spin and let the good times roll!

REO Speedwagon is more than just a one-hit wonder. They're a band that's been rocking our world for over five decades, and they're not showing any signs of slowing down. So, crank up the volume, grab your air guitar, and let's celebrate the music of REO Speedwagon!