Chicago and REO Speedwagon Announce Summer 2014 Tour

Two Illinois rock icons will hit the road together in 2014, when Chicago and REO Speedwagon join forces for a co-headlining summer tour.

The bands are currently scheduled to share itineraries throughout August for a 15-date run that kicks off Aug. 2 in Phoenix and wraps up in Dallas on Aug. 31. A Detroit performance has been scheduled Aug. 12.

According to a news release announcing the tour, dates are still being added.

"It's ironic that these two legendary bands, who both have roots in Illinois, were labelmates in the '70s and experienced waves of immense success in the '80s and '90s, and have some how continued to consistently make compelling music, both in-studio and on tour . . . have never before performed together!" Chicago co-founder Robert Lamm said. "This situation is about to change, as Chicago and REO will perform together during the concert's encore and present a finale that will thrill their audiences.

"As a musician who has always respected REO's skills, I look forward to our first rehearsals early this summer. This will be fun!"

"With so many personal connections between various members of REO and Chicago, it is amazing that we have never actually toured together," added REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin. "I love it that the Chicago guys feel the way we do about truly playing together when you tour together.

"Can you imagine the Chicago horn section on 'Roll With the Changes'? That would blow my mind! This tour promises to deliver some unique music from two bands who have made a ton of hit records, share that Midwest work ethic, and still refuse to sit back on their past accomplishments. We both keep raising the bar, challenging ourselves and rocking hard ... and the audience is the ultimate winner. We are psyched. ... I can't wait for this tour."

Chicago and REO Speedwagon 2014 Tour Dates
Aug. 2 - Phoenix
Aug. 4 - Denver
Aug. 7 - Kansas City, Mo.
Aug. 10 - Indianapolis
Aug. 12 - Detroit
Aug. 13 - Cincinnati
Aug. 15 - Hartford, Ct.
Aug. 16 - Holmdel, N.J.
Aug. 17 - Wantagh, N.Y.
Aug. 19 - Saratoga Springs, N.Y.
Aug. 20 - Boston
Aug. 22 - Atlantic City, N.J.
Aug. 23 - Raleigh, N.C.
Aug. 24 - Atlanta
Aug. 31 - Dallas

Tickets can be purchased through Live Nation starting Friday.