On Friday, June 16th, REO Speedwagon took the stage at the South Shore Music Circus. Hailing from Champaign, Illinois, the band formed in 1966 brought the music that has captivated audiences worldwide and touched the hearts of millions to their fan base in Massachusetts.
The evening kicked off with a performance by Charlie Farren, renowned for his involvement with Joe Perry’s band and Farenheit. Taking the stage alone, armed only with his guitar, Farren unleashed a solo act that left the audience mesmerized. With a repertoire of original compositions like “Old and Young” and “Hold Me Down and Love Me,” he effortlessly showcased his talent and passion for music.
For Farren, it wasn’t just about the music. As he poured his heart out on stage, he shared a profound insight with the crowd. Emphasizing the importance of fun, he shared with the audience, “Fun is the new currency, and we’re the creators of it.” This sentiment reflected his infectious joy for life and music, leaving the audience uplifted and ready for an unforgettable night.
As REO Speedwagon took the stage, the crowd granted them their first standing ovation of the night. With an air of anticipation, the band launched into their set, kicking it off with the dynamic and crowd-favorite anthem, “Don’t Let Me Go.”
The unique setup of the Southshore Music Circus, featuring a circular stage that gracefully rotated, provided an intriguing backdrop for the band’s performance. Embracing the quirkiness of the situation, REO Speedwagon playfully joked about the slight confusion it caused. However, their unwavering optimism shone through as they saw the rotating stage as an opportunity to connect with different faces in the crowd at different moments, creating a truly special and intimate experience for everyone in attendance.
The night continued to unfold as REO Speedwagon delivered their timeless classics, the very songs that catapulted them to global recognition. “I Am Going to Keep on Loving You,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” and “Building the Bridge” were part of the night’s repertoire.
During the performance of “Building the Bridge”, that the band seized the moment to share a heartfelt message. With passion and purpose, they emphasized the significance of rebuilding bridges in the country, urging unity and the power of leading with love. Their words resonated deeply, transcending the music and reminding all in attendance of the vital importance of connection and togetherness in a world that sometimes feels divided.
REO Speedwagon, after all these years, keeps relentlessly rocking the stage, bringing boundless joy to music fans. Their current tour, extending until the end of November, will culminate in a sensational finale in Loveland, Colorado.
Listen to REO Speedwagon here!
Catch Reo Speedwagon on tour here!
