FORT BENNING, Ga., (May 6, 2015) -- You heard it from a friend, who heard it from a friend - and now you'll hear it from us. Only three more days until rock legends REO Speedwagon and Grand Funk Railroad come together for a heart-pounding evening of rock-and-roll.
The concert will be held May 9 at York Field. Gates open at 6 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m.
Formed in 1967, REO Speedwagon cultivated a following during the 1970s and achieved their significant commercial success throughout the 1980s. The band's unrelenting drive, as well as their nonstop recording and touring during that time, jump-started the growing rock movement in the Midwest. It carved a path that was eventually followed by STYX, Kansas, Cheap Trick and other bands.
REO Speedwagon includes original founding member and keyboardist Neal Doughty, lead vocalist Kevin Cronin, lead guitarist Dave Amato, bass guitarist Bruce Hall and drummer Bryan Hitt. Since its inception, the band has played for troops all over the world, and they continue to play those shows when offered the chance.
"We owe so much to you," said Kevin Cronin, the band's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, during an interview last year in an interview with Air Mobility Command, "We've played on a number of military bases over the years and we're always just so thankful for the sacrifice you and your Families have made. Putting on concerts ... is just one way we can give back."
Cronin said it wasn't until a few years ago he experienced a moment of introspection when it came to the military.
"I was just sitting there thinking, 'How lame am I that I'm just a musician? What positive impact have I made on the world?'" he said rhetorically as he listed off a number of life-impacting jobs, including military service and medical doctors. "And, then, it hit me. We give all those people something to look forward to on the weekend. If we can give those folks an escape and build up their morale, then we've been successful."
Mega-hits like Can't Fight this Feeling Anymore, Keep on Loving You, Take It on the Run, and Roll with the Changes are just a few of the songs fans can expect to hear at the show.
The Fort Benning Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation is sponsoring the concert.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and arrive early to stake out a good spot. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Pets are not allowed, although service animals (with documentation papers) are always welcome. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas. For turn-by-turn directions to York Field, download the free GuideOn smart phone app.
Social Sharing