REO's Richrath Inducted into Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The late guitarist and songwriter for REO Speedwagon will be honored in September ceremony.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:27am

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A minimalist, abstract illustration using bold black shapes and high-contrast red and white colors to conceptually represent the iconic guitar and rock music imagery associated with Gary Richrath and his work with the band REO Speedwagon.A posthumous induction into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors the enduring musical legacy of REO Speedwagon guitarist Gary Richrath.Joliet Today

Gary Richrath, a longtime member of the rock band REO Speedwagon, will be posthumously inducted into the Illinois Rock and Roll Museum on Route 66 Hall of Fame. Richrath, who was from East Peoria, Illinois, was the guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer for REO Speedwagon from 1970 to 1989.

Why it matters

Richrath's induction into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognizes his significant contributions to the state's musical legacy as a key member of one of the most successful rock bands to come out of Illinois. The honor highlights the enduring influence of REO Speedwagon and the band's connection to the local music scene.

The details

The announcement of Richrath's induction was made by museum founder Ron Romero during an interview and podcast recorded for Chronicle Media publications. The induction ceremony will take place on September 27 in Chicago.

  • Richrath was a member of REO Speedwagon from 1970 to 1989.
  • The induction ceremony will be held on September 27, 2026.

The players

Gary Richrath

The late guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer who was a longtime member of the rock band REO Speedwagon.

REO Speedwagon

A successful rock band that originated in Illinois and featured Gary Richrath as a key member from 1970 to 1989.

Ron Romero

The founder of the Illinois Rock and Roll Museum on Route 66, which is inducting Gary Richrath into its Hall of Fame.

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What they’re saying

“The announcement was made Wednesday, April 8 by museum founder Ron Romero during an interview and podcast recorded for Chronicle Media publications.”

— Ron Romero, Founder, Illinois Rock and Roll Museum on Route 66

What’s next

The induction ceremony for Gary Richrath will take place on September 27, 2026 in Chicago.

The takeaway

Gary Richrath's induction into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors his significant contributions as a guitarist, songwriter, and producer for the iconic rock band REO Speedwagon, cementing his legacy as an influential figure in the state's musical history.