The Performative Bare Minimum: REO Speedwagon and Their Boring Live Shows

When it comes to live performances, some bands are simply a must-see, while others are a real snooze fest. In the 1980s, REO Speedwagon was a major player in rock music, but during their live shows, one could argue they were the epitome of a band that made fans nod off. This article delves into what made REO Speedwagon's live shows so forgettable and why they are often remembered as the most boring band of that era.

Defining the Boring Band: Why REO Speedwagon's Live Shows Fell Flat

In the early 1980s, REO Speedwagon, known for hits like "Can't Fight This Feeling" and "Keep on Loving You," was a popular band in America. However, their live shows were often criticized for their lack of dynamic performance and interaction with the audience. According to fans and critics, the band's live performances were more of a milieu where they went through the motions rather than a true concert experience.

The most common complaints revolved around a lack of stage presence and the absence of an engaging performer. Lead singer Pat Travers, an accomplished musician by himself with other bands, seems to have been held back in his role as the frontman for REO Speedwagon. This was a stark contrast to his previous band, You, where he was much more energetic and less hampered by band dynamics.

A Rocky Road to Glory: The Origins and Evolution of REO Speedwagon

REO Speedwagon formed in Rockford, Illinois, in 1970. The band consisted of hit songwriter and founding member Terry "Tracy" Bonham, along with Pat Travers. They started their career as an RB group but later evolved into a rock contingent with strong songwriting and a unique sound that appealed to a wide audience, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. Their hit "Keep on Loving You" in particular became a pop culture phenomenon, leading to multiple successful compilation albums and the eventual success of MTV, a station that catered to their youthful fan base.

Despite early critical acclaim and chart success, REO Speedwagon's live shows in the 1980s often fell short. Common texts from concert goers spoke of the band performing just enough to get their hits across, with little to no interaction or improvisation. Pat Travers has since reflected on the band's live performances, stating, “We were able to play the hits, but I didn't think our live shows were anything that set us apart. We were a very solid band, but something was missing.”

Diagnosing the Illness: Why REO Speedwagon Lacked the Spark

One of the main reasons for REO Speedwagon's dull live shows lies in the lack of a frontman with the charisma and energy to captivate an audience. Pat Travers, despite his guitar skills and songwriting abilities, was not a particularly charismatic performer. His stage presence left much to be desired, which made it difficult for fans to get excited or invested in the performance.

Another factor is the structure of their live sets. REO Speedwagon was known for playing their hits, and that's exactly what they did at their live shows. However, without any breaks, solos, or interactive parts, their performances became monotonous. Pat Travers has mentioned, "People came out to see the concert, and you can't just play two and a half hours of 'Take It on the Run.' The audience wanted to see something else, but we were basically a hit parade."

The Legacy of Boring: Why REO Speedwagon's Live Shows Are Still Remembered

REO Speedwagon's legacy as one of the most boring bands when it comes to live shows is a testament to the importance of audience engagement and dynamic performances. While they had critical and commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s, their live shows came across as a bland, no-nonsense affair. Pat Travers' reflections reveal his regret, "I thought we were doing okay, but I look back and I see that our shows were often just playing the hits, and that's not what fans want from their favorite band."

While these live performances can be seen as a drawback, it's also important to understand the historical context. The music industry of the 1980s saw a high-level of focus on album sales and pop culture impact, with less emphasis on live performances. This era often saw bands relying on hits while focusing less on the showmanship and spectacle that can make a concert memorable.

Concluding Thoughts: REO Speedwagon's Live Shows in Historical Context

REO Speedwagon's live shows are often remembered as the epitome of the 'performative bare minimum,' showcasing the downside of a successful formula without the necessary dynamism to keep the audience engaged. Pat Travers' regrets and reflections highlight the integral connection between a band and their audience, and the significance of live performance in music. While fans of REO Speedwagon can still enjoy their music as it was on records, concert goers seeking memorable live experiences may want to give them a miss.

Overall, the legacy of REO Speedwagon's live shows serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of engaging with an audience and the elements that create a truly unforgettable live experience. Perhaps next time you find yourself reminiscing about this era of pop, you’ll appreciate the bands that went the extra mile to create an unforgettable concert for their fans.