History of Kevin Cronin in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 14, 2025

Kevin Cronin is the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the American rock band REO Speedwagon. He penned two chart-topping hits for the band: "Keep On Loving You" (1980) and "Can't Fight This Feeling" (1984). Cronin's songwriting and vocals were instrumental in the band's success throughout the 1970s and 1980s, particularly on the Billboard Hot 100.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

October 6, 1951: Kevin Cronin's Birth

On October 6, 1951, Kevin Patrick Cronin Jr., the future lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for REO Speedwagon, was born.

Others born on this day/year

1971: Cronin Joins REO Speedwagon

In 1971, Kevin Cronin joined REO Speedwagon shortly after they recorded their debut album.

1972: Release of R.E.O./T.W.O.

In 1972, Kevin Cronin recorded the album R.E.O./T.W.O. with REO Speedwagon, but soon left the band afterwards.

1976: Cronin Returns to REO Speedwagon

In 1976, Kevin Cronin returned to REO Speedwagon after a brief solo career.

1980: Release of "Keep On Loving You"

In 1980, "Keep On Loving You", written by Kevin Cronin, became a chart-topper on the Billboard Hot 100.

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1984: Release of "Can't Fight This Feeling"

In 1984, "Can't Fight This Feeling", written by Kevin Cronin, also topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts.

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April 25, 1992: Marriage to Lisa Marie Wells

On April 25, 1992, Kevin Cronin married Lisa Marie Wells.

2007: REO Speedwagon Releases 'Find Your Own Way Home'

In 2007, REO Speedwagon, with Kevin Cronin as lead vocalist, released the album 'Find Your Own Way Home'.

March 2008: Appearance on Don't Forget the Lyrics!

In March 2008, Kevin Cronin appeared as a celebrity contestant on 'Don't Forget the Lyrics!', reaching $350,000 before forgetting the lyrics to "Last Dance" by Donna Summer.

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2016: Interview about Connecting with Audiences

In 2016, Kevin Cronin discussed the importance of connecting with the audience while touring, emphasizing the need to be aware of the city and engage with the local community.

April 2020: Appearance on Ozark Leads to Resurgence

In April 2020, Kevin Cronin appeared on the Netflix original series Ozark along with bandmates from REO Speedwagon in episode three of season three. They performed "Time for Me to Fly". The popularity of the show led to a resurgence on the Billboard charts for the band.

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January 2024: REO Speedwagon Announces Summer Road Trip Tour with Train

In January 2024, REO Speedwagon announced that they would tour with Train in the Summer Road Trip tour, hitting 44 cities. Kevin Cronin expressed his enthusiasm for bringing people of all ages together through music.