Forty years ago, REO Speedwagon was riding high on the waves of success from their album Hi Infidelity. While their power ballad “Keep On Loving You” was still resonating at the top of the charts, another single was swiftly ascending – “Take It On The Run”. On this very day in 1981, “Take It On The Run,” the rock anthem that captured hearts and airwaves, officially achieved Gold certification, marking a significant milestone in the band’s journey.
This marked an incredible moment for the Illinois-based band. Having transitioned from a beloved bar band to national rock stars, REO Speedwagon suddenly found themselves with not just one, but two smash hits from the same album. “Take It On The Run” ultimately peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Hi Infidelity as a landmark album and REO Speedwagon as a dominant force in rock music. This back-to-back success of Top Five singles was, in the band’s own words, “pretty awesome!”
The story of “Take It On The Run” is intertwined with the phenomenal success of Hi Infidelity. Released in late 1980, the album was a game-changer for REO Speedwagon, catapulting them to superstardom. The blend of powerful rock anthems and heartfelt ballads resonated deeply with audiences, and “Take It On The Run” perfectly exemplified this dynamic. Its driving beat, memorable guitar riffs, and relatable lyrics about love and vulnerability made it an instant classic. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to its quality and the band’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
This golden anniversary of “Take It On The Run” serves as a reminder of a pivotal era in music history and REO Speedwagon’s impactful contribution to it. It was a time of exhilarating highs for the band, a period filled with the thrill of chart success and the growing connection with an ever-expanding fanbase. As the band members reflect on this period, they are also in the process of sharing their story in detail, with a memoir in the works promising to offer fans an intimate look into the journey of REO Speedwagon through their own eyes.
Looking ahead, REO Speedwagon is eager to reconnect with their fans live. With tour rehearsals on the horizon and shows planned throughout the summer and into the year, the band is optimistic about bringing their music back to the stage. The anticipation of experiencing live rock and roll once again, with house lights dimming and the band taking the stage, is a feeling shared by both the musicians and their devoted audience. As they prepare a new show and setlist, REO Speedwagon is ready to inject the joy of rock and roll back into the lives of their fans, carrying on their legacy and celebrating the enduring power of music, including the timeless hit “Take It On The Run.”
