REO Speedwagon stands as a titan in the realm of rock music, particularly renowned for their heartfelt ballads and energetic rock anthems that have resonated with generations. Among their impressive catalog of songs, “Keep On Loving You” shines as a quintessential power ballad, a track that not only topped charts but also defined a significant part of their musical identity. Released in 1980, this iconic song, penned by Kevin Cronin, quickly ascended to number one in the United States, cementing its place in music history and in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Cronin initially envisioned “Keep On Loving You” as a more traditional, softer love song. However, the band organically transformed it into the powerful, emotionally charged ballad that audiences have come to adore. This transformation was pivotal, setting a new direction for many of REO Speedwagon’s subsequent singles and influencing their overall sound. As Cronin recounted, the initial reaction from his bandmates was one of surprise. They seemed to question if such a ballad truly aligned with REO Speedwagon’s established style.
“The guys in the band looked at me like I was from another planet. They were like, ‘What are you…?’ because we were all bringing in songs for this record we were going to make and they looked at me like I was crazy.”
Despite the initial skepticism, Cronin’s conviction in the song’s potential was unwavering. He asserted his role as the primary songwriter and emphasized the band’s ability to shape it into a true REO Speedwagon song. This passion proved infectious. Gary Richrath, another key member of the band, famously plugged in his guitar and laid down the powerful chords that would become instantly recognizable, elevating the tender love song into a soaring power ballad.
Thumbnail of REO Speedwagon's music video for Keep on Loving You, one of their iconic songs.
The rest, as they say, is history. “Keep On Loving You” became a number one hit, lauded as a defining power ballad of its era. Interestingly, Cronin reflects on its success with a touch of irony, noting that it wasn’t the result of a calculated strategy but rather a beautiful accident born from genuine passion and collaborative musicianship. This accidental masterpiece not only became one of the most beloved Songs By Reo Speedwagon but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of rock ballads.
