REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin launched Derek Hilland as a substitute for Neal Doughty, who bowed out after 55 years final month.
Keyboardist Doughty – co-founder and the one member to seem on the entire band’s data – 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 “always be part of the REO brotherhood” and urged he may rejoin them onstage now and again.
Hilland has already performed a handful of exhibits in his new position. Frontman Cronin made it official in a web site submit, saying, “Since his stint with Iron Butterfly, Derek has toured with Whitesnake and Foreigner, and most recently spent 15 years in Rick Springfield’s band. When I contacted my old buddy Rick for a reference, he said of Derek, ‘He is the sweetest, most gifted fucking keyboard player since Keith Emerson, a great harmony singer and a really decent human.’ And Rick was right.”
He added that Hilland “is a bit younger than the rest of us – who isn’t! – grew up listening to REO Speedwagon, and is a longtime fan of Neal’s keyboard work. He is a perfect fit and fits right in with our band vibe. So, once again REO Speedwagon survives a major personnel change and keeps on rolling. While Neal is certainly irreplaceable, Derek is an extremely gifted keyboardist and a fine singer, who brings renewed enthusiasm to our band. We will carry on, continue to raise the bar musically, and have fun in the process. We hope to see you at our upcoming shows. … Onward and upward, with love.”
REO Speedwagon is presently touring the U.S., with dates scheduled till August.
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