AboutKathy Expertise History of the band, their music, lyrics, instrumentation, touring, hits, chart activities, and just about everything else in between. President of REO FANS, the band's largest international fan club, and REO fan for over 35 years, having attended hundreds of concerts all over the world.
Experience
Publications REO FANS NEWS, Editor & Publisher for the last 15 years
Education/Credentials Attorney
Awards and Honors With a 30+ year photographic history of the band, one of her photos was selected to appear on the band's 25th anniversary t-shirts. She was also featured on VH-1's "Rock Collectors," where her rock photography was displayed.
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!
