CHECK OUT "WHERE YA GOIN'?"
FEATURING GARY'S LEAD GUITAR!
Click this link to join Gary's eGroup for latest news and info.
The Original REO Speedwagon - Left to Right: Neal Doughty, Alan Gratzer, Gary Richrath, Gregg Philbin and Terry Luttrell
Welcome to Golden Country!
If you have a minute, please vote in the poll below, and add your comments!
[ Post Your Comments Here. | Back to GaryRichrath.com]
| Name: | Mark |
| Location: | Illinois |
| Comments: | I saw the original line-up in my hometown high school gym back in 71? The band was great without Cronin. The only REO I listen to is the music without Cronin. Cronin's real name is Richard Noggin! The asshole ruined one of the best american rock n roll bands. |
| Name: | John A |
| Location: | Now in Fl |
| E-mail address: | johnoldetowne@ |
| Comments: | I saw REO at Honey Creek Square in Terre Haute...a long time ago; then the Hulman Center, then West Union, Ill.....and at the Fl Theater here in Jax, Fl.
Without Gary....they suck...plain and simple...I will listen to their old cds; but won't plop down cash anymore for a concert, ever. Kevin, Gary was the best lead player ever in REO; if he don't play, I don't pay....They will be in the Fl Theater again in a month or so, but I won't be there. REO went downhill fast after GR left.... |
| Name: | Brenda |
| Location: | Kansas City, MO |
| E-mail address: | geetardennis@ |
| Comments: | Hello to a old friend. Yes, everyone is right. You were the band. I have heard REO in concert without you. What a joke. Couldn't get into it. You need to get going and get your groove happening. Would love to hear you play again. You have a lot of fans in Kansas City who would like that. |
| Name: | patrick murphy |
| E-mail address: | murphypatrick0@ |
| Comments: | Rocked to the "Live" album in the late 70's....drank a lot of beer jammin' to live REO cruising around, Golden Country flashes a lot of memories... Gary, you rock on the guitar! |
| Name: | jim |
| Location: | nova scotia, canada |
| E-mail address: | j_bush_nik64@ |
| Comments: | Just wanted to say Gary, you WERE the REO sound for all the years you were with the band. Your style is unique, you wrote terrific songs and I believe you were the heart and soul of the band. Here's to you, a super underrated and brilliant guitarist! |
| Name: | Michael Gerard |
| Location: | MI |
| E-mail address: | michael_gerard44@ |
| Comments: | Hey Gary man!!
You will be always my main man..I grew up on your music and all my friends totally dug ur gutiar playing. It was the best and so are you..If you dont go back to the band its cool but I'll never go watch them..Only if your lead gutiarist will I buy a ticket. Later Bro Mike |
| Name: | Derek |
| Location: | Spokane |
| E-mail address: | dereks81@ |
| Comments: | It must not be the money for most of the 80's great bands. Steve Perry is Journey and they have moved on with this great new singer. If Gary were to "rejoin" REO, even if for only one tour, They would all be rich and if not rich, It would be one of the greatest reunions ever. Can I promote it? Possibly a tour with Journey featuring Steve Perry. Can anyone say Big Big Bucks? |
| Name: | Mark |
| Location: | Indiana |
| E-mail address: | mtevis@ |
| Comments: | Why are you sitting on your ass and watching Kevin keep livin' the dream...let's rock! |
| Name: | carlos mata |
| Location: | dallas tx |
| E-mail address: | carlos-mata@ |
| Comments: | He made REO Speedwagon. I got all the albums except number
five, if you can send it to me, I will pay you for it. |
| Name: | DAVID WHITAKER |
| Location: | MT.ZION,IL |
| E-mail address: | ROSE.WHITAKER@ |
| Comments: | THERE IS ONLY ONE GUITAR PLAYER FOR REO AND YOU ARE IT GARY!!! IN HIGH SCHOOL WE USE TO SEE YOU IN THE BAND FEATHERTRAIN AND THEN WHEN REO WAS CHAMPAIGN'S HOUSE BAND WE WOULD WATCH YOU AT THE CHANCES R AND THE RED LION!! ANYBODY REMEMBER THOSE DAYS! ROCK ON GARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| Name: | Jason Morse |
| Location: | Avon Illinois |
| E-mail address: | morse_jason2010@ |
| Comments: | GARY!!!!! Man.... I have so much to say. I have followed and admired your guitar work my whole life.... I have to be one of the biggest R.E.O Fans (Richrath era). I just want you to know how much you and your playing has touched my life. There are soo many things I want to ask you that I can't fit into one E-mail. I really would love you to write me back, but I dont expect it.
Anyways, I know you're an Illinois man yourself. I'm from Galesburg IL. My mom would listened to R.E.O. while I learned to walk, and I'm 29 now. When I was a little older my dad made me this little plywood double neck guitar, and I would act like I was "Gary Richrath". I always wanted to play guitar cuz my dad had one but I never inquired about it 'til 1990 when all my dreams were crushed. Gary Richrath has left R.E.O. Speedwagon. Now I have been playing guitar for 18 years. I have been in 6 bands and put out 3 demos. I love you, man! Your style has forever changed me. I hope to hear from you. Just tell me that you're still playin' somewhere, if not in your home. I'm not a crazed fan. I just want to know if my Guitar Hero is still out there. R.E.O has not been the same (as a band and on the charts)since you departed. |
| Name: | dan hankwitz |
| Location: | rockin' USA |
| E-mail address: | dhankwitz@ |
| Comments: | I brought my youngest daughter to see REO Speedwagon this summer in Wisconsin. She is 19 years old. I became a die hard REO fan when I was 16. So cool to take my daughter. I must say though that they are not the same without Gary.
Gary, YOU ROCK! You gave REO the sound that made them famous. Rock on, Brother!! |
| Name: | T-Bob |
| Location: | Speedwagon USA |
| Comments: | For all fans of the "REAL-DEAL" REO,and you younger ones that missed it, check out the fantastic live classic videos on you-tube. Now you can see the shit my friends! Rock n Roll at its best! Cronin sucks and his dentist office music sucks too! I like to share good shit! http://uk.youtube.com/watch? |
| Name: | Kai Bishop |
| Location: | Temont, ill. |
| E-mail address: | kaibishop@ |
| Comments: | Gary,
I grew up listening to your music from the time you were called Suburbin 9 to 5. I still have those records on 45's. My dad "Jim Bishop" went to school with you at East Peoria High School. I was just wondering if you still are play and writing new music? We'll if you are ever in Tremont Il. please look me up. Thanks, Your fan, Kai Bishop |
| Name: | TERRY CANCILA |
| Location: | ST. LOUIS MO. |
| E-mail address: | TCANCILA@ |
| Comments: | DEAR GARY,
THANKS FOR GETTING ME STARTED PLAYING ROCK N ROLL MORE THAN 30 YEARS AGO. IT WAS ALWAY'S A REAL SPECIAL EVENT WATCHING YOU PERFORM LIVE!!! WILL YOU EVER MAKE YOUR BACK TO ST. LOUIS FOR ANOTHER LIVE PERFORMANCE? I'D LIKE FOR MY TWO YOUNG SONS TO HEAR AND SEE WHAT THEY'VE BEEN MISSING. THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL OF THE WONDERFUL MUSIC. TERRY CANCILA |
| Name: | Jeff Potter |
| Location: | Paris |
| E-mail address: | harleygpotter@ |
| Comments: | Hey Gary! I don't know if you will see this, but you'll remember me (maybe) from traveling around in Rick Nielsen's van... |
| Name: | Old School Fan |
| Location: | Golden Country USA |
| Comments: | The original members Gary, Alan, Gregg and Terry (with or without Neal) could blow the current line up off the stage if they wanted to. It's not hard to see that a lot of fans are tired of what is now called REO. I wouldn't go see the current band if it were free! Could you imagine the outcome the original REO SPEEDWAGON would have! Champaign, IL should be the place, back where it all started! Cronin should come back down to earth before it is too late for a "respected" reunion jam or tour "with all the original members". The current line up is a joke if you were fortunate to hear the real deal. Nobody can play a guitar like Gary Richrath! He helped Gibson sell a lot of Les Paul Sunburst guitars in the last few decades, and is one of the best at playing them! REO SPEEDWAGON is lost in a dream without Gary Richrath! |
| Name: | cs |
| E-mail address: | ceba@ |
| Comments: | I just went to see "Reo Speedwagon" at the Rosebud Theatre in Effingham, IL on July 17th. A really good show, but I missed Gary! Dave Amato does a good job filling in for Gary, but it is just not the same. I got a Dave Amato guitar pick and went to price it on ebay. The same pick is going for $5.00, and one from Gary Richrath is asking $39.99! Bring Gary back! |
| Name: | Charlotte Brown |
| Location: | Maine |
| E-mail address: | clbrown1@ |
| Comments: | Hey well Gary don't know if you'll read this but if you do I want you to know we all miss your beautiful eyes and curley hair and you are the BEST :)
Charlotte Brown |
| Name: | joel walden |
| Location: | Las Vegas |
| E-mail address: | houseofwalden@ |
| Comments: | Hi, in 1972 your lead singer was replaced. Do you remember
Greg X Volz trying out in '72? If yes have you ever or would you do side work with Greg? |
| Name: | Schmierzyj |
| Location: | Minnesota |
| E-mail address: | schmierzyj@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.comcast.net |
| Comments: | R&R Fans,
(Kinda ironic, RichRath & Rock & Roll.....) Saw REO last night at the Taste of Minnesota in St. Paul. Been out of touch with the music scene for a lot of years and spent most of the evening wondering if that was Gary onstage. Too far to see well. Yeah sounds like him, kinda...there's lick I remember...no wait....Finally figured out the situation online this morning. Back in '89?! Wow! Kinda bummed out...The Cowhide album is still my favorite. Gary, hope to catch you on the road sometime. Will keep an ear out. Schmierzy |
| Name: | mickey |
| Location: | davenport |
| E-mail address: | micswhy48@ |
| Comments: | Gary, it's Mick. Whatsupp! I miss ya man ... I go and see the boys pretty much anytime I can. I got big heart for Bruce, and Dave's been pretty cool. Bryan's my dude!
I got to read'n some of your fans shit. Dude they LOVE YOU BIATCH!!!!! Do it dude, YOU THE MAN!!!!! You're eventualy gonna have to do it, life's too short maaann! Love ya Gar. and by the way I'm still with Debbie. She misses you bad, man. Pay attention, then get PAID!!!!!!!!!!!! I'M OUT LOVE YA, GARY!!!!!! |
| Name: | Tina |
| Location: | Atlanta |
| Comments: | Hi Gary:
I hope you are doing well and that you do get to read all of the messages of support on here. Your fans will never forget you, and will always stand by you! Your music inspired me to buy an electric guitar years ago. I just hope you never stop making the music - we need to hear from you now more than ever! God Bless you Gary, we love you! |
| Name: | Vixter88 |
| Location: | Champaign-Urbana, IL |
| E-mail address: | vicraimi1@ |
| Comments: | I lived in C-U and used to wish and wish I could get into the Red Lion Inn and watch you guys. I was only 9 years old unfortunately. Been watching old REO on youtube from 1971.... Man the Richrath guitar work was ahead of it's time. I really missed out. Luttrell was and still is an excellent singer. It's sad that Cronin now owns and dictates this band and he wasn't even a founder. Gary and Terry Luttrell should DEFINITELY get together with other former members (like maybe Alan Grazter?) and simply tour under some other name, do REO songs (pay Kevin his damn royalties on songs he co-wrote). The tour will out sell REO I guarantee it. There are a million REO fans waiting for this. If you read this guys, please.. get off your butts and do it.
I know musicians don't like to go backward. But you haven't done the old pre-Kevin REO songs for so long, they would be new again. You only live once.. and we, your fans, only live once. |
| Name: | Jade |
| Location: | L.A. |
| E-mail address: | jade-blackmore@ |
| Comments: | I’m a longtime fan, born and raised in Chicago, now living in L.A. I saw the "real"(pre-ballad) Reo at Soldier Field on the same bill with Lynyrd Skynyrd and Ted Nugent and at the Amphitheatre in ‘78. Two of the best concert experiences of my life. I really miss your playing, man. I hope you’re working on some new stuff and that you play in L.A. again. |
| Name: | Scott |
| Location: | Indy |
| E-mail address: | sds10@ |
| Comments: | Gary,
I first of all would like to thank you for all of the music you have given us. I saw REO about 15 times over the years (never without you playing lead) and enjoyed every show. I don't know how Neal and Bruce can let a wiener like Kevin dictate the band and its direction. I saw him recently on a game show and thought how sad and pathetic. You truly took REO from an Illinois bar band to a level that very few ever get to claim ROCKSTARS!!. Hopefully we can hear you play again soon. Thanks again for many great memeories and still great music. |
| Name: | Tamara |
| Location: | MICHIGAN |
| E-mail address: | dlongmi@ |
| Comments: | Gary: I'm very sorry to hear that you left the band. I think you are awesome. Nobody plays like you do. I'm getting ready to go to Iraq this June, don't suppose you ever thought about playing for the all the troops. Have already been to Kuwait in 05-06 had seen some bands there.
Miss your sound ....for sure |
| Name: | Jack |
| Location: | Illinois |
| E-mail address: | jack.merreighn@ |
| Comments: | Where is Gary at these days? |
| Name: | Chris |
| E-mail address: | weblitchfields@ |
| Comments: | I'm a fan since sept. 1979. My first r&r concert, hooked ever since. |
| Name: | Steve |
| Location: | Troy MI |
| E-mail address: | svercammen@ |
| Comments: | Gary's guitar on Golden Country HAS to be some of the hottest licks in Rock history!! I saw REO numerous times in the early 70's: at a all day concert in Tiffin OH with Canned Heat and Brownsville Station to name a couple of headliners. I also saw REO when they opened for Steely Dan in Detroit at the Masonic Temple. Very few people attended that show but Gary amazed me with his playing and lit my ears on fire when they played Golden Country live....and I do mean LIVE!!! Being Kind Can Hurt Someone Sometime sends me into heaven when i play that cut from the T.W.O. album (yes, I have the vinyl LP still as well as the CD now!) |
| Name: | Don Brummett |
| Location: | ? |
| E-mail address: | jbrummett@ |
| Comments: | I have been a huge fan of Gary for a long time. The new sound of REO is no where close to what it used to be. I turn away and go back to the orignal sound. I miss the true sound, and that is Gary. Where you at man, get back on the road again! |
| Name: | Leah |
| E-mail address: | lleduc71@ |
| Comments: | Gary,
I haven't (and won't) buy REO's new CD, so I can't comment on how crappy it sounds without you. I have seen REO play without you years ago, and lets just say that I was really there to see Styx. I wouldn't blame you if you never recorded another tune or played another show. From the sound of it, every time you do, Kevin Cronin wants a piece of your action. But, I hope you will anyway, because there are alot of people just aching to hear you play again. Keep Rocking, Leah |
| Name: | John B. |
| Location: | Arkansas |
| E-mail address: | jab_97@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I finally got to hear Gary's Solo Album "Only The Strong Survive". Its a great album and if Kevin Cronin was smart he would listen to it himself and see what he lost when he ran Gary out of the REO. Oh well his loss our gain as long as Gary keeps making his kind of music not Kevin's. |
| Name: | Kathy |
| Location: | Richrath HQ |
| E-mail address: | webmaster@richrath.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://richrath.com |
| Comments: | Post a birthday message to Gary here! |
| Name: | Cory Wells |
| Location: | Great Falls, Mt. |
| E-mail address: | corywellsklfm@ |
| Comments: | Happy Birthday Gary! Always ready to hear whatever you're playing these days... Have a great day. |
| Name: | Tom Proll "Major Tom" |
| Location: | Linz / Austria / Europe |
| E-mail address: | tom.proll@ |
| Comments: | First of all, I'm glad that I've finally found Gary is alive and well! Well, Gary has influenced me in a way that changed my life totally. I started up as a bassplayer and still loved playing bass guitar. Then I bought the legendary REO live album and that changed my musicanship forever! It was Gary's fantastic guitar playing that leaves me breathless. I changed from bass to guitar and after a year of practising and learning I formed my own band KING SIZE, the rest is history: 16 albums so far, some hits in Europe and Asia, live DVDs and so on, headliner tours throughout Europe and concerts nearly all over the world. Some awards and stuff like that... But it would never happen without Gary Richrath and especially his extraordinary guitar playing. I was a true REO fan these days and I was very sad when Gary left the band. Back in the old days without internet here in Europe nobody was really informed what happened and also the record company then didn't know any reasons for Gary's departure from REO. Only in some magazines were short messages posted, like "GR left REO for reasons like musical differences..." Thanks god for the internet, cause I know now a little more than then. As far as I have a mind in that case, it is just like it is and Gary was the key in REO and without him the band isn't the same. With Gary on board REO was to me a huge rock act, without Gary they are a band like thousand any others. Sorry Kevin, but you have to face the facts! Anyway, I wish Gary all the best and thank you for your outstanding guitar playing and your wonderful songs. And last but not least, thank you for opening my eyes how wonderful it can be to play lead guitar, otherwise I probably still would play bass...
Keep on rockin' and keep the fire burnin' Best wishes from the bottom of my heart "Major" Tom Proll |
| Name: | Jimmy Goldtop |
| Location: | Virginia |
| E-mail address: | jim543212@ |
| Comments: | I finally heard a song by Kevin's REO on SIRIUS the other day. It was boring. Kevin is a dick. The only reason I ever bought a ticket to see REO was to see Gary smiling and delivering the music. REO had a nice balance between Gary's rough edges and Kevin's egotistical sickly sweetness. I learned that REO no longer had Gary in an ad in Guitar magazine years ago and never sought out REO after that. I figured if the music was good enough, it would find ME, as it did in the early years.
It's just hard to find good rock anymore; Rory Gallagher is dead, Blackmore is playing folk, Lonesome Dave is gone, Robin Trower is hauling his own amps, Nugent is out killing his food... Where is the cosmic flying E chord? Jim |
| Name: | John |
| Location: | Hollywood, CA |
| Comments: | I just heard "Where Ya Going" Love the guitar work... where can we buy it? |
| Name: | Michael Galetta |
| Location: | Colorado springs |
| E-mail address: | spike65@ |
| Comments: | Hi Gary, it has been a long time since you put out a new cd or played concerts. I don't believe you have no more music left to record and I don't believe you have played your last concert. Seeing you all those times live and seeing how much you enjoyed perfoming, you were one of the best -- THE BEST-- as far as I'm concerned! The ultimate showman! I don't know what I can say anymore, or anyone can say to make you realize how much you are missed. If you're concerned about Cronin "(f*ck him)" REO is a "has been" band ever since you got fired. YOU ARE REO SPEEDWAGON. And I don't care if they ever come to their senses and beg you to come back! I just want to hear your new music and see you play live again! You have tons of fans in this country and if Cronin ever gave you problems again, he will have to answer to us all --your loyal fans! I don't listen to REO's new cd because it makes me want to throw up!
Life is short, Gary Tomorrow is never promised to any of us. Don't wait too long to come back. Make a comeback now while you have the chance! 'Cause I can tell you from my own experience, if you don't, you will regret it the rest of your life, Gary! And like I said, none of us know how long we'll be around. So get out that Les Paul, Gary! You can't imagine all the joy it will bring us fans and you will be surprised how much it gives you as well. |
| Name: | Doug |
| Location: | Burlington Iowa |
| E-mail address: | dirtybobband@ |
| Comments: | Gary,it will never be the same with out you! Get in touch with Kevin and lay the smack down on his little whiney @ss! Toss that impersonator Dave Amato,Potato,tomato or whatever he calls himself out on his @ss! And ROCK the World like only you can. PLEASE SAVE US FROM THE KEVIN CRONIN BAND!
Doug |
| Name: | Tim De Groot |
| Location: | Grand Rapids MI |
| E-mail address: | timdegroot@ |
| Comments: | Not two hours ago I was having a beer at my favorite bar after work, Z's. I thought I saw the evil Kevin Cronin sitting across the room eating with about 8 other guys, so to test out my theory I threw in a buck into the jukebox and played Ridin' the Storm Out and Time For Me To Fly. The jukebox hadn't been reset from the night before and it was really loud. As soon as the familiar siren sound from the keyboard blared in the opening, I saw it. Kevin's head dropped down in the ole', "Shit, I've been caught" pose. Well by the time the second song had ended, he and his entourage paid up and decided to leave. There were only 6 other regulars in the entire place. As he made his way out to the door I said to him, "Hey, you're Kevin Cronin aren't you?", he kept walking and said, "Nah, I get that all the time." "Yeah, it's you....I saw you in '78 at the Civic Auditorium." He stopped and tried to crack a joke to me....."Thanks, you helped me buy the coke for that night" said he. As he headed out the door, I yelled at him, "You're a nobody without Richrath!" Boy that felt good. Turns out REO Speedwagon is playing a festival about an hour away so it was Cronin. I feel sweet justice was served that he was forced to listen to Gary's screaming guitar parts for two songs. This encounter really reinforced my contempt for the man. I'm sure that if I recognized Gary in a bar that HE would of walked up to me, shook my hand and say thanks. |
| Name: | Gary |
| Location: | Fort Irwin |
| Comments: | I remember camping out two nights to get tickets for R.E.O. at the Peoria Civic Center for the HI INFIDELITY TOUR. The Civic Center was new. R.E.O. had finally hit the big time. It was almost as if the Civic Center was pre-arranged for R.E.O.'s destiny. For R.E.O.'s homecoming in celebration.
It was the first time I had ever camped out for tickets, I was 15. It is a good thing I did. The morning of ticket sales the line stretched all the way to Main St.! I hadn't seen a line like that since STAR WARS! The concert was great. Except one thing was missing, "157 Riverside Ave." Peoria, Peoria radio station WWCT and the surrounding communities had supported R.E.O. every step of the way on their way to the top. "157 Riverside Ave." was the symbol of that support. The entire version from LIVE...YOU GET WHAT YOU PLAY FOR was played on WWCT on a regular basis. For me, it felt like we knew you. But, you didn't know us. It was a boneheaded move on your part. The best way to make up for it is R.E.O. SPEEDWAGON should make it a point to play "157 Riverside Ave." EVERY time they play Peoria. I was partying accross the street from Gary's moms house around Christmas Eve 2005. While we were leaving the party Gary pulled up in his mom's driveway. I yelled his name and waved. He put his hand up to his forehead to shield the sunlight. To see who I was. He waved back. For many people this would have been an autograph moment. Gary was with his son. It was Christmas time. Gary and his wife had divorced recently. Rock stars are human beings. They are real people with real emotions. There are times when we must sacrifice our own selfish wants. And respect their right to privacy. I wasn't going to spoil Gary's valuable time with his son. By pestering him for an autograph. Even though in our community we are all close. Gary would remember my dad's cousin "Fat Pam" from high school. Boy has she told me some stories about you! You and SAM KINNISON, who also went to your high school. I lived right up the street from Dennis at one point, in Camelot. I say all of this due to phone conversations I used to have with Ace Frehley's mom. She would tell me stories of how Ace had a hard time visiting her. The neighborhood kids would swarm him. She gave me the human side of things. I had learned from her to just wave and say "hi" in the exact situation I had found myself in with Gary. I hope others will learn from this story. So, even though KISS was your big competetor for a while. And I happen to know you weren't exactly fond of them, to say the least. You can thank Ace Frehley's mom for my respecting your privacy. I know Gary was the driving force behind R.E.O.Speedwagon. Like Gene Simmons with KISS. Gary's name is everywhere as far as credits go. As much as you despised KISS. I noticed the dubbing and mixing of LIVE...YOU GET WHAT YOU PLAY FOR was modeled after KISS Alive!(I caught you, didn't I?) You were clever, you used many of the same tricks! And you worked hard to do whatever it took to hit it big. As the years have gone by, and I have grown, I have come to realize just how great of a guitarist you really are. I always thought you were great. Like wine it gets better! I love the Hendrix "Star Spangled Banner" influence at the end of "Golden Country" On YOU GET WHAT YOU PLAY FOR. Yes, SOMEONE noticed! Thank you for being you, Gary |
| Name: | Edd |
| Location: | St. Louis |
| Comments: | Gary, you are my all time favorite Guitar player! Your solos are always hot! Back in 1975, I convinced my Dad to trade my black SG in for a Cherry Sunburst Les Paul, because you and were my idol.
Thanks for all the Great Songs! |
| Name: | Littlehawk |
| Location: | Tampa |
| Comments: | I first saw Gary / REO at a high school gymnasium sock hop in Rockford Il - 1971ish. Took my breath away - the concert was absolutely surreal, took everyone on a fantastic journey through a new age of R&R.
157 Riverside is in my "Music for Life" playlist just before Keep Yourself Alive(Queen). When Gary left REO, so did I. |
| Name: | Mike |
| Location: | Minnesota |
| Comments: | What can I say that hasn't already been said? We all miss Gary and are waiting for a new album. I would rather see Gary play than REO. I saw them for the first time in 82 for the Good Trouble tour. Gary's guitar made the show, especially during Stillness of the Night and RTSO. Gary, best of luck in all your future endevours. |
| Name: | Alex |
| Location: | Mexico |
| E-mail address: | coss1973@ |
| Comments: | If you wanna see REO at their best, just check out the YOUTUBE videos of the 1971 TV performance..
Gary Richrath is the best guitar player there ever was... I have only seen one single REO show...in 1990 here in Guadalajara...and believe me it wasn't the same with Amato on board... |
| Name: | jk97@europedia |
| Comments: | Gary -
Stop wasting time, call Neal Doughty, Gregg Philbin, Alan Gratzer and Terry Luttrell and pick up where you left off during the Quad 71-72, U of I Anti-War days. REO at that time was not only S&%# hot, they were DANGEROUS. When you off loaded Terry and substituted Cronin and Mike Murphy, you missed the boat. Yeah people used to go to REO shows to see you play, however, Terry's vocals and Neal's keyboards, with Regis on bottom made the day! If you won't get together, then release some of the tapes that no doubt exist. Irving Azoff was around the Quad in those days, certainly Irving would not be opposed to a re-mix, particularly if he gets a cut of the profits! Anyway Gary, stop looking inwards so much. Your credibility has never been threatened and the fact that you are not in the current "REO" line up is a definite plus. I saw you play in the early days, come on man! your Uncle Leroy would not be sitting around on the porch without making some noise! Later, Lincoln Hall Trasher |
| Name: | Chris |
| Location: | East Peoria,IL |
| E-mail address: | cmm33@ |
| Comments: | Hey Gary,You rock..I know how it is re-joining a band. Kinda awkward..I would like to hear you back in the band though-For the fans-..Hi from E.P. |
| Name: | Michael Galetta |
| Location: | Colorado Springs,CO |
| E-mail address: | spike65@ |
| Comments: | Gary you've got to put out a new cd and do some touring! Please!! I bought the new so-called REO cd. Oh my god does it suck! They are SO PATHETIC without you, Gary. Listen Gary, if I had enough money to see a concert or buy a new cd I would rather see you Gary than "The Kevin Cronin Band" ...Ooops! I mean REO. I think you can't tell these days! Please, Gary I don't blame you for never wanting to rejoin REO even if they came to their senses and begged you to come back. Just come back, Gary. I know if and when you put out another cd it will rock and your power ballads are just that. Please Gary, save us from Cronin's whiney voice and sappy poorly written love songs! Hope all is well with you. ODAAT, bro. Look foward to your return to music someday to show those pussys in REO how rock and roll is supposed to be played like only you can Gary! God bless! Your friend, Mike |
| Name: | Alisha |
| Location: | GA |
| E-mail address: | reo_speedwagon_girl@ |
| Comments: | THIS SITE ROCKS! I LOVE IT!
KEEP ROCKIN GARY! |
| Name: | mike powers |
| Location: | denver |
| Comments: | I am an old friend of Gary's sister Sherry. I worked with George on the road -- met Mavis and miss them. We lost contact.
miss you sherry and george big mike |
| Name: | Chris |
| Location: | St. Louis |
| Comments: | 1987 at the Muny in St. Louis, My eyes were open to what rock n roll could be, a young teenager getting their first musical taste or live thundering drums and screaming guitars, nothing like it, to this day, the best concert I have seen. 157 Riverside Ave, Keep Pushing (I still see the lights flashing), Ridin the storm out, Back on the Road again. I could have done without openers Honeymoon Suite though! Miss you and your distinct sound Gary. |
| Name: | Michael Galetta |
| Location: | Colorado springs,CO |
| E-mail address: | spike65@ |
| Comments: | Hi Gary patiently waiting for your next CD of new music and the chance to see you play live again. I know you want to and I know it's not easy to line up that support so we all will wait till you're ready! |
| Name: | pj murphy |
| Location: | ohio |
| E-mail address: | pjmurphy303@ |
| Comments: | Best live album...."You get....." Cruised with this 8 track in the 70's many a times! True rock and roll with real roots! |
| Name: | Tim De Groot |
| Location: | Grand Rapids, MI |
| E-mail address: | timdegroot@ |
| Comments: | It is a cold night and I'm standing outside waiting in nervous anticipation for the doors of the Welsh Civic Auditorium in Grand Rapids, Michigan to open. I'm 14 years old and I somehow convinced my parents to allow me to attend an REO Speedwagon concert with some older friends of mine. By some weird twist of fate "Ridin' The Storm Out" was playing on the radio as I was pleading with them. "See? This is what they sound like." Tickets were astoundingly expensive at $8.75. The year was 1978. On the bill to open for them was this southern rock band named "Point Blank".
The doors opened and we all ran inside to see a typical venue for the day.....concrete floors, no chairs and this tiny stage set up, all black risers and a few stage lights. Staking your claim to a spot on the floor for us general admission ticket holders was a rite of passage. For the first time I experienced open usage of drugs and alcohol everywhere (Security didn't seem to exist then)....the aroma of marijuana and off to my left a circle of friends doing lines of cocaine off of a Virginia Slims cigarette pack. If my parents only knew. Stagehands were running around making last minute microphone checks and then a climb up dangling ladders into the lighting high above the stage.... the lights lower and people stand up and move forward. What was once a somewhat "roomy" area now in seconds turned into a human sardine can, pushing and shoving, strangers pressing into other strangers all with one purpose... finally the wait is over. After an unmemorable performance by Point Blank, which may explain why most reading this have never heard of them, another long wait before REO can hit the stage. When the big moment arrives, I was sent off on a ride to which I have never returned. You see, I knew of a song called "Ridin' The Storm Out" and vaguely knew "Only The Strong Survive" before coming to the concert, never really knew much about REO in general. The concert begins and here runs out on stage a real live Rock and Roll band. Playing instruments, singing and man was it LOUD!!! One song after another I was just blown away. I didn't know who to watch, what was going on, here are these long haired guys in pants far too tight to fit in looking like they are having the time of their lives, putting their all into a performance for us in little ole Grand Rapids, Michigan. Boy were they sweating! And then it happened. A man whose name I didn't know at the time played guitar like I never knew was possible. Songs like "157 Riverside Ave", "Flying Turkey Trot", "Like You Do", "Roll With The Changes" and "Golden Country" were played and it was my first time ever hearing them. I didn't have an older brother who owned the albums, hell, I didn't even own an REO album at the time. By the time the concert ended, I was a completely changed individual. As it turned out, that man whose name I didn't know was none other than Gary Richrath. I read it on the back of the album I bought the next day called "Nine Lives". The ORIGINAL "Nine Lives"!!! (That pablum filled sorry-ass band, Aerosmith, later stole the title for one of their album titles). Looking back, this was two years before the sappy Hi-Infidelity came out. I witnessed one of the last of the true rock and roll bands play that night. Never saw anything like it since and I've been to 100's of concerts. I guess you can never repeat your first time, eh? Anyhow, if anyone is still reading this. I personally want to thank Mr. Gary Richrath for inspiring me those many years ago. I reflect upon that night as a life-changing experience even though it was one of many shows for him. I will never meet the man, I only hope that these words reach him. Mr. Richrath, you are truly an inspiration to many who may not have the means or the knowhow to express it to you like I am now. I personally have boycotted any and all REO shows since your departure and will continue to do so until you are asked to return. Until then, I would respectfully ask that you consider touring with anyone you judge worthy enough to play with. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. P.S. It was the best $8.75 I ever spent. Sincerely Yours, Tim De Groot Drummer/Keyboard Improvised Freedom |
| Name: | Boj |
| Location: | Southern Illinois |
| E-mail address: | bojanowskib@ |
| Comments: | I heard REO play from the begining in Champaign at the Red Lion. Later I used to see them at Bonapartes and The Golden Gauntlet in Carbondale. REO was the best bar band I ever heard. Are there any old recordings of REO playing in the bars? I would love to hear their version of "Johnny Be Good" and "Sympathy for the Devil" again! Gary also played in a group called "Feathertrain". Anybody know whatever happened to them? They had a great song called "Live Alone". I don't know if Gary was in the band when Feathertrain wrote that song. Ah, nostalgia! The summer of 1969 in Carbondale; REO at Bonapartes, no cover charge and 30 cent mugs of beer! Anybody out there ever take a tape player into one of those bars and record REO? |
| Name: | Robbie Boyle |
| Location: | Hemet,Ca. |
| E-mail address: | rahbee321@ |
| Comments: | Gary Richrath is the single most under-rated guitarist of the 20th century (no embellishment). My car in the late 70's early 80's was called "the REO Maverick." REO blazing out of the windows always with a KLOS rainbow REO Speedwagon sticker in the back window (the rainbow had no significance except that it was KLOS radio station's logo) and all major groups had a rainbow sticker). "Not that there's anything wrong with that" (Seinfeld reference) LOL! A simplier time!
The Fabulous Forum, LA, The Swing Auditorium, San Berdo, I was there a total of 7 or 8 shows could not get enough! Why did Kevin have to explain every song? Shut up and play. Neal and Alan, I hope these times find you well and playing........2 outstanding musicians. |
| Name: | Dan |
| Location: | Plainville |
| Comments: | What the world needs is more Gary Richrath guitar! Seriously! |
| Name: | Rich |
| Location: | Carbondale, IL |
| E-mail address: | regocken@ |
| Comments: | Wow! Been looking for a GR site for years! Glad I finally found one! |
| Name: | DON HUFFSTATLER |
| Location: | ROCHELLE IL |
| E-mail address: | drhduke@ |
| Comments: | It's been a while since I've checked in. Hang in there, Gary, and hope to hear some new stuff from you soon. Take care! |
| Name: | Sara |
| Location: | New Jersey |
| Homepage URL: | http:// |
| Comments: | I love you, Gary! You have such an incredibly great guitar sound! Is there a chance you will tour the USA? I would love to see you
in person. Love, Your Number One Fan, Sara Hugs and big kisses from your new best fan! I love your Nine Lives CD! |
| Name: | Randy Bramlett |
| Location: | East Prairie MO |
| E-mail address: | rbwebdesign@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.jpbramlett.com |
| Comments: | Didn't you used to jam with Robin Zanders out at his Dad's place out in North Park? Down on Liberty Drive, I think.
I grew up on Superior and used to go down there and watch everyone jam. I went to Harlem High. You went to East, didn't you? My youngest son was a guitarist also and died at the tender age of 17 years old while riding around with his 16 year old drummer. Here is the website that I created for him and has a lot of our local band's videos in it. http://www.jpbramlett.com |
| Name: | Todd Maxwell |
| Location: | Saint Louis |
| E-mail address: | toddjmaxwell@ |
| Homepage URL: | http:// |
| Comments: | I was at the 1978 show that REO recorded "Ridin the Storm out", it seem the show went on for hours, we did not want them to stop, and they did not want to stop. It was a high like you hardly ever get from "just seeing a show". The next year they showed up wearing "White Tuxes" and top hats, the bomb..... |
| Name: | Ralph Herbert |
| Location: | Reynoldsburg, Ohio |
| E-mail address: | rlherbert@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.myspace.com/drdude1955 |
| Comments: | Sure do miss seeing you play LIVE Gary...seems like a lifetime ago you were out on tour with REO. Happy Holidays and hopin for a new album and maybe a tour someday! |
| Name: | Don |
| Location: | Jacksonville NC |
| E-mail address: | belladons@ |
| Comments: | Gary and other band members of the Committee: Man, great song! How come it's not on the charts? That song is complete. Great vocals, and as usual great guitar work. This society needs some new music. Get off your ass, Richrath and let's get the journey re-started. IT'S TIME FOR SOME GOOD OLE ROCK AND ROLL FROM GARY RICHRATH AND THE COMMITTEE...........rock on |
| Name: | Diamond Dave |
| Location: | Daytona USA |
| E-mail address: | breccasdad@ |
| Comments: | I just listened to the song. It is terrible. Sorry folks, this sounds like a pop song from 1960 with an electric sound. Gary, please, you can do so much better than a standard major chord progression, with worn out cliches in it. It's not going anywhere. The lyrics are about as simple as it gets. Where is the passion in your music? Where are the dynamic changes? It sounds like a band playing at a Howard Johnson's at 1:30am. Listen, I'm the same age as Gary. I know good music. This is not good at all. I like the guy... great guitarist. You have to come up with something really fresh with a powerful message to get thru. Please, not this song. Go back to your roots, stretch your mind a bit, and throw in a minor chord with feeling. And get a young singer with energy, passion and a twinkle in his/her eye. |
| Name: | Alyssa |
| Location: | Hanover Park,Il |
| E-mail address: | Valfreyja91@ |
| Comments: | I've been a Gary Richrath fan since 1977... He's still my favorite guitarist. I love this site! Since I'm starting a pair of heavy metal bands (Freyja& Lorelei) ...I'm wondering how Gary would feel about a young lady changing his lyrics, so that they would be more metallic (as in heavy metal music). |
| Name: | Ray Trosley |
| Location: | Illinois |
| E-mail address: | rtt054@ |
| Comments: | Just heard the new song. Yeah baby, Gary has returned! This just made my whole day and it made me quiver just to envision Gary on stage doing what he does, making that axe wail. God bless Gary and the new group. Just one more thing: Keep Pushin'.
God, this is great! Later, Ray |
| Name: | Kathy |
| Location: | Richrath HQ |
| E-mail address: | reofans@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://GaryRichrath.com |
| Comments: | OK, Richrath fans... Here's what you've been waiting for! A Richrath tune called "Where Ya Goin'" that Gary recorded with "The Committee." We've been keeping many things under wraps, but it's time to silence the critics who think Gary's faded into the sunset!
To hear this incredible song with Gary's fantastic style, click the link below. There's no mistake. GARY'S BACK!!! -- Kathy, Richrath.com "WHERE YA GOIN'?" |
| Name: | Lisa |
| Location: | TN |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.myspace.com/rocknrollnurse66 |
| Comments: | I am so glad to see there is a community of Richrath fans out here!
As far as guitarists go, I started loving Gary at the age of 14. I think he is, by far, one of the most under-rated guitarists of all time. If you read this Gary, thanks for all the great rocknroll memories, and many rocknroll teenage fantasies:). Love ya, Lisa |
| Name: | Leilani |
| Location: | Buffalo NY |
| E-mail address: | Leilanipel@ |
| Comments: | Well, folks, as a teenybopper in 1981, I really did not appreciate what Gary could do to/with/for a guitar. I just knew it as cool.
As my 40th birthday is looming and I have finished a year of pursuing new things, I wanted to share something with you, and I hope Gary sees this. I have never been athletic - more of a bookworm and workaholic, but three weeks ago I ran my first marathon. I just wantd to see if I had what it takes to do the whole 26.2 miles. Many long months of training, and many long hours on the road reconnected me to the music I had so long put aside in favor of other things. And as I crossed that finish line, it was partly due to Gary's music. My IPod was filled with GC, Summer Love, I'll Follow You, 157 and so many others that Gary gets part of the credit. For what it is worth, Gary was there. And someday, if I should ever meet him, that medal goes around his neck just for a minute. OK, then I want it back, but he deserves to wear it!! |
| Name: | Gary Hammontree |
| Location: | Hesperia, CA |
| E-mail address: | gmanvv@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://gmanvv.blogspot.com |
| Comments: | I'm sure Gary won't remember me, but I did some work at Westlake Studios back in the late 80's when he was recording there, with a new group of muscians. I also lived in Newbury Park and used to see you in your 944 all the time at Lucky's. I just wanted to say hello and see what you were up to these days. Thanks for the music,
Gary. Gary Hammontree |
| Name: | Lisa DeGuido |
| Location: | Chicago, Illinois |
| E-mail address: | idlewildsamoyeds@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://IdlewildSamoyeds.com |
| Comments: | HAPPY BIRTHDAY GARY!!!!!!! |
| Name: | Tom Flora |
| Location: | FT. lauderdale |
| E-mail address: | runnertom@ |
| Comments: | Today is Gary's birthday....He is 57, Happy Birthday to the
Les Paul shredder....we need to hear more! Tom Flora |
| Name: | DARYL LONG |
| Location: | CHESTER, VA |
| E-mail address: | longball300_2000@ |
| Comments: | All I want is for Gary to be happy and not to be effected by "Cronin the cry baby" . . . . . This is coming from someone who really loved REO of OLD!! |
| Name: | Emily |
| Location: | Wisconsin |
| E-mail address: | itsaLesPaulthang@ |
| Comments: | Hey Gary, its been a while. I just wanted to stop by and let you know that you have inspired me to do somthing with my dull life. One thing is to learn how to play the guitar. It took maney years but I got the money and finally reached my goal and got a 60's Les Paul. Just like yours. I havn't heard alot out of ya in the past couple years... just hope everything is going well. I really wanna see you on the road again soon. Again. Thanks for everything you inspired me ta do!! Lotsa Luv |
| Name: | Tillman |
| Location: | Illinois |
| Comments: | The best REO ever was without a doubt, the line up of Luttrell, Murphy, Richrath, Philbin, Gratzer, and Doughty. The best thing that could happen for REO, and the true fans, would be a reunion of these members playing the best songs that the band members wrote together! The RED LION INN, in Champaign,IL, where the band kicked out all of those classic "rock" songs, is back again as Fat City Saloon. This should be the place for a great reunion of the "REAL REO". Come on guy's, one weekend could make rock history. |
| Name: | M&M |
| E-mail address: | foghaze@ |
| Comments: | I was privileged to see Gary blow away Blackmore's Rainbow, after the year before I saw him in the tour when he blew away Journey and Judas Priest opening up in San Antonio during the late 70's. Notice I said "Gary", not REO, although we used to say REO. That band is dead now, much like AC/DC would be without Angus. Well Angus doesn't seem to want to tour anymore, so hopefully Gary will put the band back together as hinted below. Styx is a great band in their own right, but why share the stage with them? There was never a need to share a stage with Gary in the driver's seat, even after a great guitarist like Blackmore opens up. Blackmore broke every string with a diamond pick, capitalizing on theatrics and Gary came out and just smiled with reassuring confidence, focusing on the crowd as his fingers worked their magic. |
| Name: | Patti |
| Location: | Florida |
| E-mail address: | Pac3fla@ |
| Comments: | I think that was a lifetime ago and that REO SPEEDWAGON ceased to exist when Gary left the band. I'd love for him to get a new band together, with guys like him who haven't been heard from for a while, guys who never received the level of recognition or respect that they earned, were entitled to, and like Gary, will ALWAYS be worthy. Gary can do so much better -- an extraordiary musician and songwriter -- than to "rejoin" and be a casualty of the Kevin Cronin catastrophe. |
| Name: | James Dean |
| Location: | Fort Mill SC |
| E-mail address: | apr16jtd@ |
| Comments: | Every time I hear the announcer on our local rock station ramble on about Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page and the other so called greatest guitarists of all time, I can't help but wonder why Gary is never mentioned. I believe Gary should be at the top of that list. I'll never forget when I first saw REO. It was on a program called Don Kirschner's Rock Concert. I was hooked from that moment on. I have even collected the first album, but only played it once. |
| Name: | Michael Galetta |
| Location: | Colorado Springs,CO |
| E-mail address: | spike65@ |
| Comments: | Hi Gary, it's been a long time -- over 10 years. I've heard that you are happy just taking it easy, that's great and you can bet we are all happy you are enjoying taking it easy, YET I THINK YOU OWE IT TO ALL YOUR FANS TO PUT OUT A NEW CD AND DO SOME TOURING!! AFTER ALL, IF IT WAS NOT FOR ALL YOUR FANS YOU MIGHT HAVE BEEN IN ANOTHER LINE OF WORK. DON'T GET ME WRONG, I KNOW A NEW CD AND PUTTING A TOUR TOGETHER TAKES QUITE A BIT OF MONEY YET IF YOU READ ALL THESE MESSAGES FROM ALL OF US, YOU WOULD KNOW THERE IS A GREAT DEMAND AND IN MY OPINION YOU ARE WASTING YOUR GOD GIVEN TALENTS NEVER MAKING AND PLAYING MUSIC ANYMORE. WHAT ABOUT THE JOY AND HAPPNESS YOUR PLAYING AND SONGS BRING US ALL? DO YOU CARE ABOUT THAT AT ALL? SOMETIMES GARY YOU HAVE TO THINK ABOUT THE FANS. GOD SAVED YOU AND ME AND MANY OTHERS FOR A REASON I BELIEVE GOD SAVED YOU BECAUSE OF YOUR SPECIAL GOD GIVING ABILITY TO PLAY THE GUITAR AND MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY. BY NOT PLAYING ANYMORE ALL THE FANS HAVE IS THE "CURRENT SO- CALLED PHONY "REO" WHICH IS A BIG JOKE. I WOULD RATHER LISTEN TO YOU PLAY YOUR SONGS THAN WIMPY KEVIN AND "YES" MAN AND LESSER TALENTED AMATO PLAY YOUR SONGS, GARY DON'T MAKE US ENDURE ANOTHER WIMPY REO RECORD! COME BACK AND SHOW REO HOW ROCK AND ROLL SHOULD BE PLAYED! |
| Name: | Marc Weinberg |
| Location: | Arkansas Via Champaign IL |
| E-mail address: | kdmw@ |
| Comments: | Have been a fan of yours since 74" and as as a student at the U of ILLINOIS and have seen the greatness of what you do as well as how you do it.
I love what R.E.O once was its time to to get back what once was !! after all we true fans diserve it !! You ARE ONE OF THE BEST ON THE PLANET at what you do, so prove to us you have what it takes to step back up to the plate ! ( STAGE ) YOU ARE R.E.O. lets make it happen. Even as a solo artist you need to be out there we would love to see you in n.w. Arkansas. Thank you. Marc Weinberg |
| Name: | Steve |
| Location: | Cumberland, RI |
| E-mail address: | sliv812@ |
| Comments: | Gary:
Last week, I watched the broadcast of the very first day of MTV (08/01/1981) on VH1 Classic. REO Speedwagon's early music videos (many of them live performance cuts) were shown numerous times during that first day of MTV's existence (which makes sense due to "Hi Infidelity"'s domination at the time, plus the rather low number of music videos that even existed at the time). I can't tell you how much I miss those days when good rock and roll ruled popular culture, and what a pleasure it was to see and hear those great Speedwagon tunes again. It reminded how much I loved hearing "Take It On The Run" on the radio, esp. the excellent bridge with your soaring solo guitar work. I don't think Speedwagon ever got the respect it deserves, and it's a shame. |
| Name: | Dynamite |
| Location: | Omaha, NE |
| E-mail address: | brazlcl22@ |
| Comments: | Growing up in the big "O" during the 60's & 70's I remember when REO used to come to town a couple of times a year. I was lucky enough to see them play several times, the most memorable was a night with REO & Molly Hatchet, what a show!!! I just saw REO on June 30, 2006 and it just wasn't the same. Seeing someone else perform Garys' riffs felt like seeing a cover band. There definitely wasn't the energy in the show that I remember REO always had. Don't get me wrong, they put on a decent show, but it just wasn't the same. Here's hoping you and the band can work things out. |
| Name: | Resurrectors of real rock |
| Location: | Back lounge of a tour bus |
| E-mail address: | garyshreds@ |
| Comments: | The band, Gary...THE BAND.
....Marshall JMP's into the 2x12's....the wah....alnicos sunk WAAYY low into the pickup surrounds.... Obviously, the curly cord never touches the floor. Black and Red striped shirt...white pants....you know the ones.... And, NO posing, puckered-faced peacock in the middle of the stage. So, when you are ready to talk turkey....flying turkey.... |
| Name: | Ray Trosley |
| Location: | Wood River, IL |
| E-mail address: | rtt054@ |
| Comments: | Gary, At the ripe old age of 51 I still believe "Classic Rock" is Rock and Roll. My favorite band at the time of my youth and even now is Uriah Heep. When David Byron was fired from Heep and eventually his passing my heart stopped. I could not believe it could happen. Reo and Styx are my next two favorite bands. I got that same feeling when I learned of your departure from REO and another dose was dealt to me when I heard that Dennis DeYoung of Styx was no longer in the band. I don't tend to know anything about the music business or what its like to hang around nearly everyday with 4 or 5 guys in a band, but I do know that the things that brought me joy (the music and the artists that create that music) are killing me. I don't know why these things happen and I don't have to pretend I like them. But I will say Gary Richrath was the heart of the band known as REO Speedwagon, and sir you are probably the finest axe player I have witnessed and listened to in my life. I will say there are plenty of good, even great guitarist out there but no one is better than yourself. I felt priviledged to see you and the band play at least a dozen times and I thank you for each and every moment. It made life a bit easier to cope with. Again, as others already have, please give the rock and rollers of the world another chance to witness one of Gods special people and the talent HE gave Gary Richrath. God bless you and yours. Take care. We all wait patiently for your return. |
| Name: | Resurrectors of real rock |
| Location: | back lounge of a tour bus |
| E-mail address: | garyshreds@ |
| Comments: | It's us again. Perhaps you were a little put off by our selection of Murphy. Therefore, once again, we give you....
....THE BAND GARY....THE BAND. Richrath Philbin (with Alembic and/or Thunderbird) Gratzer Doughty Murphy/Lutrell - your call. Because now, thats the bass guitar, but that ain't Regis. |
| Name: | Lisa |
| Location: | Chicago |
| E-mail address: | idlewildsamoyeds@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://IdlewildSamoyeds.com |
| Comments: | Gary,
Really miss you, I never got to see you play-so I'm pleading with you-make the phone call to Cronin and settle this once and for all! Your Fan Always, Lisa DeGuido |
| Name: | Willy |
| Location: | Georgia |
| E-mail address: | willyvkubert@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.gowilly.net/music/r/reo%20speedwagon/ |
| Comments: | Speedwagon rules! I started DJing REO Speedwagon at my junior high school dances back in like 87-90 and have been a lifelong fan. |
| Name: | Arlyn Fincher |
| Location: | indiana |
| E-mail address: | finch@ |
| Comments: | My first REO concert was in the middle 70's at the CONVENTION CENTER INDIANAPOLIS. I was there for the live album. It was the best concert I ever attended. I probably lost part of my hearing, as it was festival seating and my group of friends were right in front of the band. GARY RICHRATH IS THE BEST KICK ASS GUITAR PICKER IN THE WORLD!! |
| Name: | sm farid |
| Location: | karachi |
| E-mail address: | ambfar1@ |
| Comments: | The best band is REO speedwagon and the best guitarist in classic rock history is Gary Richrath! |
| Name: | Resurrectors of real rock |
| Location: | Back lounge of a tour bus |
| E-mail address: | garyshreds@ |
| Comments: | Were putting the band back together. The Band, Gary. The BAND.
Richrath Philbin Gratzer Doughty Murphy Enuf Said. |
| Name: | John |
| E-mail address: | jr452@ |
| Comments: | I have been an REO fan since 1981, and have always liked listening to a Richrath "riff" and "solo." After the departure of Alan and Gary, I continue to listen to REO today, with new members Bryan Hitt, and Dave Amato. After Gary left, I bought his CD and went to see him and his band in Elkhart IN. and loved the show. I liked the new music Gary released on the one album (Only the Strong Survive), and still enjoy listening to it today. It is too bad Gary has not done much in the past 10 years or so, and I hope he is well and healthy. I consider myself a REO Speedwagon fan from when the band was formed by Neal and Alan, till the day REO releases their next album (CD) this coming fall. I give a lot of credit to Bryan, and especially Dave Amato for replacing such a great lead guitarist and drummer for such a great band. Dave has brought his own style to the past two REO albums he has been on and I look foward to hearing him on the up coming CD. For whatever reason Gary left the band or was asked to leave, I have no idea what exactly took place. I, too, miss Gary and his style of playing his Gibson, and enjoy hearing him on any one of my old REO CD's, or watching him play on VHS tape. I hope I have the opportunity to hear him once again, and hope he is well. A true REO Fan.... |
| Name: | ShelbyGT500E37 |
| Location: | Arkansas |
| E-mail address: | jab_97@ |
| Comments: | It's been a while since I posted anything but there is something that's been eating at me. I noticed on the "Official" REO Website they say to check out Gary's Guitar Solo on "Live: You Get What You Play For", but they neglect to tell people that it's no longer on the album. Hmmm, I wonder who's bright idea it was to have that taken off? I wonder if they could be sued for falsely leading people to believe it's still on there so they'll buy the album? Just a thought. LOL |
| Name: | Van Cure |
| Location: | Austin Tx |
| E-mail address: | niforni@ |
| Comments: | Why the HELL haven't they remastered the "REO LIVE: YOU GET WHAT YOU PLAY FOR" cd yet, and put ALL the original tracks on it including "GARY'S GUITAR SOLO"??!!
I wish we could somehow start a petition, and send it to the record company saying it's time to get your heads out of your asses already!! |
| Name: | Michael |
| Location: | Colorado Springs |
| E-mail address: | spike65@ |
| Comments: | What can I say? We all miss you, Gary! More than words can say! REO is just a joke without you! My god, they're just an oldies act and more ballads than I can stand!
Gary, wish you could see all of your fans that just want to hear you play some Richrath rockers again! |
| Name: | Mike Davis |
| Location: | Wichita, Ks |
| E-mail address: | me-davis@ |
| Comments: | I'm an old Rock & Roll fan, just turned 50. Use to party hard to the old REO music. Miss it and still love it. Seen REO once. Never forget it. I remember the Spotlight was on Gary doing a SOLO. AWESOME. I miss the old times, would like to see Gary play again. I always wondered why Gary left the band. I see here there was friction with Kevin. Too bad. I rated REO and Gary both in my top 5 favorite bands and Guitars. I never went to any more REO concerts after Gary left. How could it be REO without Gary? A friend of mine talked me into going this year to the Riverfest in Wichita to see REO. I went because there is not much to choose from any more. It was a total disappointment. The sound man was way off. The volume was way too low. Couldn't hear vocals or lead guitar. We left after the 3rd song. Anyways, we would love to see Gary play again for what it's worth. Come to Kansas, Gary! We'll be there! |
| Name: | John |
| Location: | Tampa |
| E-mail address: | qschool@aol.com |
| Comments: | Went over to Jannus Landing in St. Pete last night to catch the REO show. They blow. Gary is the Speedwagon. I miss you, dude! |
| Name: | Johnson |
| Location: | Indiana |
| E-mail address: | bobandkris1@ |
| Comments: | Gary's guitar playing put the drive into REO's music, and that drive has been missing since he left. The Building a Bridge CD had no drive in it at all. We all love the old stuff that has Gary's drive in it; nobody has liked the new stuff. After all these years, if Gary would give Kevin a call, and set the differences aside, I bet they could put together one heck of a new CD that has "The Gary" guitar playing and drive back in REO's music. Without Gary, it's just not REO
Gary, Make the call to Kevin and the other REO band members! |
| Name: | ej |
| Location: | atlanta |
| E-mail address: | eviljim@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.eviljimsrecords.com |
| Comments: | Hey Gary! Been a fan of yours for 25 + years... I play a Gibson Les Paul through Marshalls, and have always been inspired by your leads!!! My friends always carry on about Page, Clapton, Ace etc. etc., but I only have three words for them!
"GARY FUCKING RICHRATH!!!!!!!!!!!" Cheers, ej |
| Name: | Randall |
| Location: | Georgia |
| E-mail address: | rehill22@ |
| Comments: | Where could I find a copy of a live REO concert on video, from 1979 to 1990 --not any of this crap REO is putting out now? I want my two sons to experience the concerts the way I did!! I bought two videos off ebay, they had the band the way I remembered with you, Kevin, Neal, Alan and Bruce on the cover, but when I recieved them, they were this new Kevin Cronin & REO Speedwagon sissy concerts. I would appreciate your help in locating a copy of a video. Thanks! |
| Name: | Steve |
| Location: | Indiana |
| Comments: | REO/T.W.O. is the best REO album, ever! |
| Name: | steve |
| Location: | san diego,ca |
| E-mail address: | stevensyanora@ |
| Comments: | Gary, I watched REO last night in Vegas, to make a long story short Amato just can't hold a candle to your playing, altho I like REO: Kevin, Neal, and Bruce. It isn't the same without you --not even close! Too bad for everyone. I wish you luck and hope to see you up there tearing up your Les Paul soon! |
| Name: | Tommy Harris |
| Location: | Georgia |
| E-mail address: | tommyh@ |
| Comments: | Gary....I am an old 55 year old hippie who still loves to rock and roll.... I was first turned on to REO in the early 70's when I was stationed in Germany in the Army.... I had a good buddy from Peoria that I used to pick with.... I have had an old copy of the first LP.... needless to say, it has seen it's better days..... Is there or was there ever a CD made of the first LP???? To me, it was by far some of REO's finest work..... some killer riffs!!!... I would very much like to add this to my collection.... If anyone out there is aware of one, please email me.... peace out, Tommy |
| Name: | Mark Kenny |
| Location: | Ca. |
| E-mail address: | ngtwng12@ |
| Comments: | Gary,
I just wanted to drop you a long overdue line to say THANKS for the spectacular music. Living in Westport Connecticut in the late 70's, a buddy had me listen to the band and ever since (while you were in the band)I've been a fan. We even went so far as to knock on the door at 157 Riverside Ave. No luck! Seen you guys warming up for Bob Seger at the Garden, then was at the show at Toads Place in New Haven, Ct when I found out you left the band and Dave Amato played all your songs lick for lick but it wasn't you. Very disappointed. Hope you are doing well and I am looking forward to hearing anything from you in the near future. |
| Name: | don huffstatler |
| Location: | Rochelle, IL |
| E-mail address: | drhduke@ |
| Comments: | Hey Gary,
It's been a while since we've heard anything from you as far as your music. Just want to let you know that I've been an REO Speedwagon fan since I was 13. I've always enjoyed the music of the group since '79. I was born in '68 and grew up listening to your music. I hope to hear some new stuff from you real soon. Your only old when you get old. Stay in touch, Your Friend From Rochelle, Il Don |
| Name: | Daryl |
| Location: | Missouri |
| E-mail address: | dandv@ |
| Comments: | REO was REO before Kevin came into the band! Kevin is like a woman wanting to marry a musician and then trying to change him after they get married. If there was a style conflict within the band, Kevin should have started his own F***** band. I am one of the biggest REO fans alive! I have seen every tour for every album except "Good Trouble" (I was overseas in the military and s/t first album which I don't know if I saw it or not) and have all the records (except "best of's) ever recorded. I am a musician and I would not want to bring in a new member who tries to change everything unless it was unanimous amongst everyone in the band. According to John Lennon, "That was the key to our success- All decisions with the band were unanimous." To make a long story short, REO would have been loved by me with or without Kevin. Gregg Philbin's bass playing attracted me to the band! |
| Name: | JACK |
| Location: | ny |
| E-mail address: | joliver4@ |
| Homepage URL: | http:// stampedecountry@bravehost,net |
| Comments: | HEY GARY! I'VE ALWAYS BEEN A FAN OF YOUR STYLE OF PLAYING. I'M A PLAYER, TOO. I LISTENED TO REO ALL THE TIME IN THE LATE 70- 80'S UNTIL YOU WERE NO LONGER WITH THEM. I DUG THE SOUND OF YOUR LES PAUL --THAT'S WHY I HAVE ONE. WHAT WAS REO THINKING WHEN THEY REPLACED YOU???? |
| Name: | Henry C. |
| Location: | Columbus, Ohio |
| E-mail address: | LAMB@ |
| Comments: | This is a curiosity I've have. If a song was written by Gary but copywritten by CBS, does he still get royalty checks for the song?
Keep jammin. |
| Name: | s. o. |
| Location: | Orlando, florida |
| E-mail address: | so-tbird@ |
| Comments: | I am from the midwest & knew Gary up close & personal for a time way back before REO. |
| Name: | Terry |
| Location: | Jamaica, WI |
| E-mail address: | missionaryterry@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.johnsonoutreachmsn.org |
| Comments: | Greetings all!
In seaching the web for all those "old rock bands" I use to imitate every night in clubs through out Florida in the 80's, I found this site. I really didn't know what happened to Gary until now. So... With that said I agree with most people that REO ain't the same. When I saw them on satellite down here in Jamaica, the first thing I looked for was Richrath. Wasen't there, as was DeYoung from Styx. !Sounded like it too As a musician today, the old REO is what I cut my teeth on. Gary's guitar was what gave me the R&R fever to be a rock star. My sister had one of their albums and I wore it smooth playing it over and over again. In early 75' I didn't know how to play so I joined a band in Largo, Florida as a lighting tech.in high school. In 72'I was only 12 years old when "Like You Do" and "Golden Country" came out. Thank God "You Can Tune A Piano But You Can't Tune A Fish" came out. Every pro musician has the question asked, "who influenced you." My answer was Gary Richrath! As were guys like Rick Emmitt and Tom Sholtz. So I built a lighting board that nearly killed me and the gutiar player in the band and I stuck that out until I realized bands needed "bass players" So I learned to play bass and from there played in mostly "B" class club bands around Florida until 1984 when some groupie girl fell in love with me and took me from "the road" I married her and still am today with 2 kids. And I still play today all over Jamaica as a missionary playing cultural (reggae) songs and worship songs. In fact the impressions that guys like Gary Richrath and Tom Sholtz and Dennis DeYoung had on me then is found today in music I write and play. Just last month and probably to the shock of KC we re-arranged "Can't Fight This Feeling" and "Roll With The Changes" to a bit of an inspirational tune. Just changed some word but the music is the same. It is so cool to see my 14 year old son on piano and organ rockin these tunes. I know, I might get in trouble for doing this but hey, what are they going to do, come down here and find me. No Problem! Just ask for the long haired missionary! Don't think I could re-arrange "Like You Do" if you know what I mean! :-) But when I set up our big 14,000 watt sound system for a 30 day outdoor crusade, you can always find me loading an early REO cd for a distortion check. I do get some funny looks too. As for the reunion of REO, it would be cool. But people have their attitudes and they don't seem to change that much. Especially musicians. The emotions poured out in song writting often gets personal in other aspects of band life. However, in my years in R&R bands it was always keyboard players that had attitude problems. So I would say thanks to Gary for inspiring a young boy 33 years ago. Living on the road was tough, but when it was show time, I got to be that rock and roll star I always dreamed about. That's why they call it "classic rock." There will never be another time like those and there will never be a guitarist like Gary Richrath. But I just wish he would of played a Fender!! Peace! Terry |
| Name: | Lisa DeGuido |
| Location: | Posen-IL |
| E-mail address: | idlewildsamoyeds@ |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.IdlewildSamoyeds.com |
| Comments: | Hi Gary,
I have been a fan of yours for many many years and just wanted to drop you a note to wish you a wonderful Holiday Season! Hope Santa brings you everything you want and truly hope to see you out on the road soon; it's just not the same without you!! Good Luck and take care! Sincerely, Lisa |
| Name: | Jeff H |
| Location: | Tennessee |
| E-mail address: | hill24car@ |
| Comments: | I've been an R.E.O. fan since the early days and just ran across this group today. Growing up in St. Louis I was fortunate to have access to the band from the first album on. R.E.O./T.W.O. is a true classic album ranking with any and all others in the midwest as many of you know. I attended the St. Louis concert at Kiel Auditorium recorded for use on the "You Get What You Play For" album. I'll refrain from comments on the "post-Gary" Speedwagon and say only this: I cannot even consider an R.E.O. that does not have Gary Richrath playing lead guitar. The sound is not R.E.O. as I recognize it. There is no grit. There is no fire. I have reluctantly accepted that the last R.E.O. Speedwagon album with "that sound" will forever be "Life As We Know It" and that is sad. That monstrous, screaming Les Paul still has a lot of concert halls to crumble.
|
| Name: | Randy Gallicano |
| Location: | b.c canada |
| E-mail address: | gallyis@ |
| Comments: | Hey Brian.... I'm with you....Lost In A Dream is my favorite album ever...by anyone!!!!... because of Richrath's guitar and Doughty's piano was front and center on that album... and I would take Mike Murphy over Cronin any day....Happy b-day, Gary...my favorite solo of yours.....Roll With the Changes.... |
| Name: | Ed Boes |
| Location: | Indiana |
| E-mail address: | eboes@verizon.net |
| Comments: | I would like to find a copy of the video REO made, I think in 1981 or 1982 I think it was filmed in Denver Colorado. I think it was called Live Infidelity. Anyone know a way I can get a copy of this?
Thanks |
| Name: | Gruninn |
| E-mail address: | gruninn233@ |
| Comments: | Gary Richrath is the greatest! |
| Name: | MIKE GALETTA |
| Location: | yonkers ny |
| E-mail address: | spike65@optonline.net |
| Comments: | BRIAN HI MY NAME IS MIKE AND I WILL BE MOVING TO THE SPRINGS AS SOON AS I CLOSE ON MY PLACE IN NEW YORK. WHERE ABOUTS YOU LOCATED? I BOUGHT A HOUSE THERE AND MY BROTHER LIVES OFF POWERS. REASON I ASK I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE SOME FRIENDS OUT THERE WHO HAVE THE SAME INTEREST AS ME! MAYBE WE COULD SWAP OLD REO MEMORABILIA? DROP ME AN E-MAIL. |
| Name: | Brian Owens |
| Location: | Colorado Springs |
| Comments: | This might sound strange to most REO fans but I enjoy the REO line up with Mike Murphy and Greg Philbin the most. Lost In A Dream is probably my single most favorite REO album. Incidentally I was only 3 years old when that album was released but have recently discovered the "older" works after identifying with the "REO Kevinwagon" sound for most of my life. The early stuff really rocks and is now the REO sound I like the most. It may be good to know that none of your licks have been forgotten. I wish REO could patch things up and go on tour. BTW, happy belated birthday! |
| |||||
