REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin launched Derek Hilland as a alternative for Neal Doughty, who bowed out after 55 years final month.
Keyboardist Doughty – co-founder and the one member to seem on all the band’s information – defined that he had sufficient of touring, and though he nonetheless loved performing, it was time for him to fly. His bandmates famous he would “at all times be a part of the REO brotherhood” and instructed he may rejoin them onstage once in a while.
Hilland has already performed a handful of exhibits in his new function. Frontman Cronin made it official in an internet site submit, saying, “Since his stint with Iron Butterfly, Derek has toured with Whitesnake and Foreigner, and most not too long ago spent 15 years in Rick Springfield’s band. After I contacted my previous buddy Rick for a reference, he stated of Derek, ‘He’s the sweetest, most gifted fucking keyboard participant since Keith Emerson, an ideal concord singer and a very first rate human.’ And Rick was proper.”
He added that Hilland “is a bit youthful than the remainder of us – who isn’t! – grew up listening to REO Speedwagon, and is a longtime fan of Neal’s keyboard work. He is an ideal match and suits proper in with our band vibe. So, as soon as once more REO Speedwagon survives a significant personnel change and retains on rolling. Whereas Neal is definitely irreplaceable, Derek is a particularly gifted keyboardist and a fantastic singer, who brings renewed enthusiasm to our band. We’ll stick with it, proceed to lift the bar musically, and have enjoyable within the course of. We hope to see you at our upcoming exhibits. … Onward and upward, with love.”
REO Speedwagon is at present touring the U.S., with dates scheduled till August.
