REO Speedwagon, is an American rock band formed in1967. The band's lead guitarist and songwriter Gary Richrath died on Sunday at the age of 65.
The band's publicist - Erik Stein, confirmed the news of Gary Richrath's demise, however, he did not give any specifics, as to what caused Richrath's death.
In 1971, the 22 year-old Richrath joined the band shortly before they recorded their self-titled debut album. He was with them until 1989.
Kevin Cronin as the lead vocalist and also a rhythm guitarist for REO Speedwagon, wrote on the official Facebook page of the rock band, "My longtime friend and collaborator Gary Richrath passed away earlier today," Kevin Cronin added, "Gary was both a unique guitarist and songwriter, and the embodiment of the tough guy with a heart of gold. I learned most of what I know about being in a rock band from Gary Richrath."
In 2013, Kevin Cronin said in an interview, that he treated Richrath as his big brother in the rock 'n' roll genre.
Kevin Cronin stated, "He taught me a lot of what I know about being in a rock band, because I was a folk singer up until then. But Gary Richrath, he was a real rock star, man. He would stand up there with his guitar slung low and just rock."
Gary Richrath did the writing on a couple of REO Speedwagon's hit songs such as, Take It on the Run - that took the No. 5 spot on the Billboard pop singles chart in 1981 and Ridin' the Storm Out .
Additionally, 13 songs of REO Speedwagon got in the Top 40 hits between 1980 and 1988, that includes their No. 1 hits with Keep On Loving You in 1980, and the track Can't Fight This Feeling in 1985.
