Expert: Kathy - 9/18/2009

Question
I love this song from the COW album.  Was this song ever played live?  If not, why....it is one of their best songs ever.

Answer
Hi Mike,

The last time REO played "Lightning" live was back in 2001 when lead singer Kevin Cronin put together a medley of old REO songs: "The Key," "Lightning," "Blazin' Your Own Trail," "Let Me Ride" and "Say You Love Me or Say Goodnight." His efforts seemed to get mixed reviews. Long time fans tended to love it, but many pre-Hi Infidelity fans had never heard of any of these songs -- many of which were written before they were born!

Critics also blasted the medley in reviews, claiming Kevin simply didn't have the vocal range and voice to sing these songs anymore. I have to admit that, listening to this medley, the abbreviated songs bore little resemblance to how they were originally recorded. That being said, I truly loved the 1976 recorded version of "Lightning," which was a great songwriting collaboration between Kevin and former lead guitarist Gary Richrath. However, I'd be very surprised if this song was ever added back into the set list. Thanks for a great question about a great song!

Kathy
REO FANS Pres
REO-FANS.com
GaryRichrath.com