Breaks my heart to see him like this, especially after all of those years watching him youthfully skip across the stage with his hair flying - the very image of a 70s guitar god. The music business has sadly swallowed up many talented people. Anyway, I digress... miss you Gary!
He saw his Mom through the Peoria tornado and short NH stay. She’s known as his biggest fan and had all his albums on her wall. They seemed to have had a very close relationship.
@@lindagreaney5136 Actually, the original singer was Terry Luttrell who went on to form Starcastle. Cronin sang on the second album and Mike Murphy came in on album #3.
@@davidtedds116 I remember Terry Lutrell singing but idk what order they came. I had a few early albums n saw them on tv some. Thx for helping n I liked all three singers. I liked them from early 70’s on but I’d keen they started in college. Have u been to Gary’s memorial bench beside the river? I’m proud he’s got that BC some day I’d like to go see that. The pics look beautiful of it w the River in background.
Gary was so damn good. I think he was maybe the best American Guitarist. He was a great performer and he made it look easy. He is like Blackmore. He doesn't get the credit he deserves. If you didn't see him before High Infidelity you missed something special. High Infidelity maybe their biggest selling album but was even near their best album.
I'm 😢 crying. Thanks to the videograher for staying on Gary. So sweet to see the band members together. Just like old times. I have absorbed so much REO for my life. I am 17 again seeing and hearing this.
Gary WAS wonderful in his prime. But, booze and over=eating took a serious toll on him. He was not the heart and soul of REO, that was Kevin. Gary WAS the cherry on the sundae, but not the whole enchilada! His guitar solo rifts were legendary to say the least.
I have never heard of the "midwest sound". I had no idea that was a thing. I need to research that. Growing up in 70-80's midwest you would think I have heard of it.... lol
@@danielcorreard3746 Agreed. I'd like to add Neil "Spyder" Giraldo to that conversation. He wrote some of the most memorable riffs and solo's of the late 70's and through the 80's for Pat Benatar and was never acknowledged by many of his peers during that time.
Say what you want about this Man, Gary Richrath had sone of the best feel tones pick slides And good old fashion guitar licks and he played them well. His legacy along with REO speedwagon will be forever cemented in the history of rock and roll.
That was very well said. Gary's talent was one of the best. His melodic tones, riffs, licks, and the pick slides were very special. He was very underrated as a guitar master. Those years when Gary led REO/SW with his rock style were their best years. He is the legacy of REO/SW. They should have never let him go. He made the band. Farewell Gary
I too, have bemoaned his obesity and substance abuse--but that in now way precludes his amazing talent. Specifically "feel tones pick slides [sic]" and his compositional talent are unique and sorely missed. He unleashed the muscular tones of the Les Paul on ..."Tune a Fish" in a way that inspired so many of us. Frank Zappa killed himself with substances--it happens to the best of us. Gary Richrath was a shredder like no other. Rest in peace, my friend.
I agree Lee. Kinda bittersweet,, on one hand so cool Gary was there with the old band but at the same time he just wasnt the same guy I saw over 40 years ago. But to be honest, Id rather listen to Gary play his old licks, poorly, than listen to Dave *try* to make the sounds Gary did so effortlessly.
I’ve always felt Terry Kath of Chicago was similar to Gary in that once they were no longer in their prospective bands, the bands were not the same again.
His guitar solos on “Ridin The Storm Out”, “Roll With The Changes”, and “Back On The Road Again” cemented his status as one of the most iconic American rock guitarists ever!
That i didn't realize- as someone who has been learning the guitar for many yrs now i have to not only agree, but it adds to the remarkable legacy- We can only hope that he realized what an impact he had on so many people-wait a minute-oh oh -the miserable hof called and said"not worthy" - Psssd Please
No these guys always had some reverb or echo on their guitar at the least. You can hear it during the solo with a few milideconds of delay. Standard stuff.
I'm sure ole Gary Richrath had a trick or two brah but, he got that bad ass tone out of a very rudimentary set up- When working with horses, particularly babies (2-3yr olds) A lot of time , well actually most of the time, less is more- I believe this works out for a lot of things in life...
@@davidrice3337 Yes, he had a basic classic rock tone with reverb or slight echo and slight delay to fatten up his sound. He was probably also incorporating 25 watt 12 inch Celestion greenbacks.
Gary is still killing that guitar. That's REAL freaking talent right there. Not like the 'musicians' of today. REO Speedwagon, and so many others, had LEGIT talent before autotune and all that tech made it so anyone can appear to have talent. This is amazing. ♡
Always THE Great Showman Gary Richrath. You had it Gary, that Magic Touch, and impeccable moves that made REO what it became, the World Class Rock N Roll Band that pleased millions of loyal fans over decades of great entertainment! Thank you REO SPEEDWAGON and R.I.P. Gary Richrath, we didn’t have you long enough, but what we had was great! Thank YOU!!!
This is from December 4, 2013 in Bloomington, Illinois, it was a benefit concert titled "Rock to the Rescue" to raise money for families affected by a tornado in central Illinois.
I know it’s Dave’s bad habit but check out him constantly checking the volume on his Les Paul at 1:55. Poor Dave was probably nervous and in awe of the great Gary Richrath playing his song. Gary was always more at ease at made it all look so easy. RIP Gary, you will never be forgotten. Kevin said this show was the last he saw of Gary but said that he was glad they made their peace.
Mr. Gary Richrath that guy could blaze , Guitar 🎸 hero of the Midwest . From the Red Lion 🦁 to Auditoriums. You will be remembered. A 🥰 Champaign shout out to the legend!!!!!
@@daveg4236 Obviously the combination of all the group worked very well together, but Kevin's vocal-style is what defined the "REO sound." Every singers' voice has certain qualities, tones, and ranges; this sets the sound and "feeling" of the music when all together. What does this matter though....they were great!
Gary was so amazing , it’s really sad and depressing what happened to him. I choose to remember him the way he was in the 80’s. Such a talented musician, love his pick slide. He put his own twist on it. I call it “the gary”. He was the coolest on stage back then with that smile and that hair . You will always be remembered loved and adored.!!your music will live on forever and ever ❤🙏
He was and always will be a legend. RIP Gary When I listened to the 70's and 80's I was 15 basically a teenager. DiD not realize what I was listening to. MASTER. In his prime he was as good as Eddie....who back then I thought was God
He was a great guitarist and part of the heart of REO. However, he could not control his addictions - and that was his downfall. The rest of the band realized that they could not continue with the drugs and booze, but Gary could not take care of it. It is a sad story we have seen so many times in music...not sure why it is so prevalent, but it is.
Renued respect for Kevin Cronin after seeing a recent article where he and the other bandmates acknowledged the fact if it wasn't for Gary Richrath "there would be no REO Speedwagon"- most other bands with similar situations wouldn't be as magnanimous - To this day i haven't heard a shredder that made an average- decent band great- (1 person's opinion,of course)
This is so hard to watch. I saw REO 3 different times in Kansas City and was a fan from "Live, You Get What You Play For". Addiction is painful to watch as friend, co-worker, family member.....whoever. Gary had completely lost himself and it breaks my heart. He was one of my first guitar heroes (along with Ace Frehley and Ted Nugent).
Rest in peace Gary. Such a gentle and normal guy's guy. I'll never forget my early college years at the Red Lion in Champaign listening to you play your heart out. Thanks for being such a part of my life and helping me getting on through. It's all Golden Country now!
in this humble bassist opinion, Mr Richrath never really got the credit he deserved. He truly deserved the term the most Underrated Guitarist in Rock N Roll. Maybe not the best, god know there are so many technical virtuosos out there, I wont start naming names. They are a dime a dozen. When it comes to down in the trenches Rock N Roll, writing, performing, living the dream, no one did it better than Mr. Gary Richrath. Rest In Power brother.
Poor Gary. Wow. He just looked awful. Alcholism did this to a great guitar player, songwriter and overall musician. He definately left his mark and blessed us with his talents.
Gary NEVER succumbed to ordinary life as a mere mortal. He lived and died as the rock and roll icon he was. God put that ability in his hands and fingers to create life from wood and steel and to let it live in our hearts forever.
You are absolutely right. Gary was an icon. He never got over the 'Hi Infidelity' high life. There's good reason the LP was called 'Hi Infidelity' as everybody was high and there was lots of infidelity going on. Neal Doughty and Kevin Cronin ended up divorced and Doughty went into rehab for alcohol and Gary for alcohol and coke. Doughty got it. Gary didn't. But he tried. Wish he coulda come out the other end, but it just wasn't to be. By 1986 REO as we knew it was done. It mighta been 1989 before Gary and Alan Gratzer left the band, but by 1986 they were ready to go. Gary and Kevin tried to bury the hatchet, but time took its toll. Cronin is writing a book. He's gonna tell it like it was. Bruce Hall already told everybody the band just couldn't get past the fame and fortune of 'Hi Infidelity.' Gratzer left to be with his family. Cronin and Doughty gave their's up. Gary was a recluse and he was never comfortable being alone. Bruce Hall had been a friend of the band until Gregg Philbin left in 87 and he took over on bass. You obviously were around, like I was, during their formative years. They were losing their contract with Epic when 'Hi Infidelity' came out, sold 10 million copies was #1 for 15 weeks. How do you deal with that? They had announced they were breaking up and suddenly were the biggest band of 1981. It made them and killed them. RIP Gary Richrath
@@scottnugent4791 yes Greg left in 77 and Bruce took his place. I also thought Allan left in 88 not 89. But a very good post! RIP Gary Richrath! You were a great guitar player.
I don't know, man, sex, drugs and rock and roll will only take you so far. When all that partying catches up with you, ask 9 out of 10 of these guys and they'll say it wasn't worth it. Even Keith Richards says he regrets all the drugs because he lost a lot just in terms of creativity. When you're lying on that operating table and your insides look like Swiss cheese, the revelation comes too late.
Before I loved Jimmy Page ..before I loved Ace Frehley..Before I loved Schenker I LOVED Gary Richrath. So sad he's not on a stage anymore..R.I.ROCK N ROLL HEAVEN
I had been on medication like prednisone for to supress my immune system. It appears Gary may have been on meds that caused him to have puffed out look and weight gain. I've been there. May Gary be at peace--RIP.
@@tod3msn * *Uncle Elmer,* * My fiancee is now on cyclosporine. The prednisone wasn't to be used for her in a long-term duration due to the damaging liver issues that would have occurred. Her hives (were) out of control. How are you doing with your immune problems now?
@@JamminClemmons: You are correct. Pred should not be used long term because of its eventual side effects. Sometimes it's a tough call. Gary was rumored to have substance abuse issues. He, like too many of us, was his worst enemy. A great talent gone too soon.
Last Word's There Is No REO Speed Wagon Without Gary Richrath. It's That Plain And Simple. Epic Records Was Sold On Gary More Than The Band. Take Nothing Away From The Rest Of Band Members. Neal And Alan Started It. Bringing In Kevin Letting Him Go And Bringing Him Back Was All Needed. But Gary Always Stole The Show. About A Dozen Show's For Me Before Gary Richrath Departure. And Countless After Dave Amato Is A Very Good Guitarist. But Gary Richrath Was An Amazing Guitarist. And Developed His Own Unique Blend Of Blues And Midwest Rock-N-Roll. R.I.P. Gary Knowing Forever Gary Richrath Was REO Speed Wagon.
Growing up in Illinois,REO was a favorite of mine since their first album.Neal,Gary,Alan,Gregg and Kevin and Michael Murphy always put on a great show.First time I saw them was in St.Louis, and I was hooked on Gary's guitar after seeing him on stage with his hair and his incredible playing.I've seen them live more times than I can remember,and every concert I saw Gary didn't disappoint.It was so sad seeing what alcohol addIction did to Gary.I will always remember him from what he looked like in the mid '70's.No RIP for Gary,as he is still tearing it up on the other side of the Rianbow Bridge!❤
Gary's guitar work on "Live: You Get What You Play For" is what got me hooked on Rock and Roll when I was 10 yrs old. That was a very difficult thing to do considering America was slap in the middle of the Disco era, and "Hi Infidelity" didn't come about until 3 yrs later. Gary was one of the most underrated guitarist in the history of Rock and Roll, not to mention his songwriting ability.
@@impalaman9707 I always call G. Rossington liquid tone" for the way he plays because his normal style is smoother than most slide playing by others. Without a doubt it was these two people who drove me to pick up a guitar and play in the first place. John Fogerty and Don Felder also played a part and of course many others I can't think of.
I saw Gary sometime in the late 80's at a pub in South Bend, IN. We were like two tables from the horribly small stage. I think I lost some of my hearing that night. Anyway he was quite polite and since we had an extra seat or two, he ended up sitting with us during all the breaks.
@@billwilson5341 I may have, but all my photos and autographs from the 100s of concerts in the 80's I attended were destroyed. I used albums that had a sticky background behind the clear cover. That adhesive interacted with the photos and even the autographs on paper and I lost them all. All I have are ticket stubs and some shirts now.
@@ripley7t429: I've heard that many people lost photographs the exact same way. What a loss! I wore an REO shirt to work last week. Clothing from back then was made to last. Take care, my friend.
Boy he was unrecognizable by this point. doesnt even look like him . The rest of them at least look normal though older . Sad what happened to Gary . I will forever have that searing guitar solo at the end of Roll with The Changes going thru my head . RIP .
Gary had great Tone , it was the first thing I noticed about REO the first time I heard them it was the guitar not the not the vocals not the song it was all guitar for me ... RIP GARY
I also was born on 18 October and was nicknamed REO Sco back in late 70s. Saw Gary and REO perform live several times and can easily say Gary was the hand full of finest performers on the planet - :(. Loved the man!!!
i grew up on this band. high school 70's, college 80's. always worth cranking up. RIP Gary.. the best ever
One of the greatest
Agreed ❤
Breaks my heart to see him like this, especially after all of those years watching him youthfully skip across the stage with his hair flying - the very image of a 70s guitar god. The music business has sadly swallowed up many talented people. Anyway, I digress... miss you Gary!
He saw his Mom through the Peoria tornado and short NH stay. She’s known as his biggest fan and had all his albums on her wall. They seemed to have had a very close relationship.
@The Original Surfer Bob. did you like the original singer, Mike M.? I thought he was really good.
@The Original Surfer Bob. I had a couple albums with Mike singing
@@lindagreaney5136 Actually, the original singer was Terry Luttrell who went on to form Starcastle. Cronin sang on the second album and Mike Murphy came in on album #3.
@@davidtedds116 I remember Terry Lutrell singing but idk what order they came. I had a few early albums n saw them on tv some. Thx for helping n I liked all three singers. I liked them from early 70’s on but I’d keen they started in college. Have u been to Gary’s memorial bench beside the river? I’m proud he’s got that BC some day I’d like to go see that. The pics look beautiful of it w the River in background.
Gary was so damn good. I think he was maybe the best American Guitarist. He was a great performer and he made it look easy. He is like Blackmore. He doesn't get the credit he deserves. If you didn't see him before High Infidelity you missed something special. High Infidelity maybe their biggest selling album but was even near their best album.
@KurtSherrick That was well said and the truth, agree with you.
I'm 😢 crying. Thanks to the videograher for staying on Gary. So sweet to see the band members together. Just like old times. I have absorbed so much REO for my life. I am 17 again seeing and hearing this.
my first and irreplaceable guitar hero, Gary Richrath was the heart and soul of the band.
There's only one Gary Richrath AND Alan Gratzer. Man, I miss that 'GOOD' band.
🤙🏼
@@lindagreaney5136 What does this mean?
@@HARDASSER
🙄It means 🤙🏼
Gary WAS wonderful in his prime. But, booze and over=eating took a serious toll on him. He was not the heart and soul of REO, that was Kevin. Gary WAS the cherry on the sundae, but not the whole enchilada! His guitar solo rifts were legendary to say the least.
Truly one of the most talented and underrated guitarists of all times.
Fact. Preach on brother!
AMEN!!
Among guitarists he is highly respected.
He's definitely a gunslinger
So true and you could see the guys smiling as Gary gave that Les Paul the good old Gary Richrath treatment. Miss you and RIP Gary.
Gary is why we had REO I hope no one forgets . Miss You Gary !
r.i.p. Gary richrath, you brought so many great songs and memories to many of us during the 70s and 80s and you will be sadly missed!
The King of the "Midwest Sound" a truly underrated master on the guitar.
Agreed!
I have never heard of the "midwest sound". I had no idea that was a thing. I need to research that. Growing up in 70-80's midwest you would think I have heard of it.... lol
without a doubt the most under rated guitarists in the history of rock and roll
lol lol lol lol yea OK
@@clemclemson9259 richrath was truly underrated he was one of the best guitarists of his generation but he never got the credit he deserved.
@@danielcorreard3746 Agreed. I'd like to add Neil "Spyder" Giraldo to that conversation. He wrote some of the most memorable riffs and solo's of the late 70's and through the 80's for Pat Benatar and was never acknowledged by many of his peers during that time.
Say what you want about this Man, Gary Richrath had sone of the best feel tones pick slides And good old fashion guitar licks and he played them well.
His legacy along with REO speedwagon will be forever cemented in the history of rock and roll.
That was very well said. Gary's talent was one of the best. His melodic tones, riffs, licks, and the pick slides were very special. He was very underrated as a guitar master. Those years when Gary led REO/SW with his rock style were their best years. He is the legacy of REO/SW. They should have never let him go. He made the band.
Farewell Gary
Rock n Roll = Gary Richrath
Word.
I too, have bemoaned his obesity and substance abuse--but that in now way precludes his amazing talent. Specifically "feel tones pick slides [sic]" and his compositional talent are unique and sorely missed. He unleashed the muscular tones of the Les Paul on ..."Tune a Fish" in a way that inspired so many of us. Frank Zappa killed himself with substances--it happens to the best of us. Gary Richrath was a shredder like no other. Rest in peace, my friend.
Well said Power. Gary was such a driving force in my youth. He is missed. RIP Gary. Your memory lives on! Shalom and love.
One of the greatest guitarists. Gary is simply amazing. Guitar, minimal pedal, and loud amps. Just pure Rock guitar. RIP Gary.
Wow that was difficult to watch without getting all emotional. RIP Gary.
I agree Lee. Kinda bittersweet,, on one hand so cool Gary was there with the old band but at the same time he just wasnt the same guy I saw over 40 years ago. But to be honest, Id rather listen to Gary play his old licks, poorly, than listen to Dave *try* to make the sounds Gary did so effortlessly.
Gary was and is the true heart and soul of REO.
I’ve always felt Terry Kath of Chicago was similar to Gary in that once they were no longer in their prospective bands, the bands were not the same again.
And NEVER forget Kevin Cronin!!!
R.I.P. one of the greatest rock guitarists that ever lived, Gary Richrath...very much missed and who will never be forgotten...keep rockin' Gary!
Who doesn't love Richrath's solos & rifts?
They're unprecedented!!
RIP my Illinois native brother...
Their live album is one of the best live albums ever. Gary put on a clinic.
THEE BEST
Totally agree - 💯
That’s a fact!!! R.I.P Gary 🙏
How much of it was actually "live?"
For us "boomers", whether you were a fan or not, there's no way at least one of Gary's licks didn't reach you.
His guitar solos on “Ridin The Storm Out”, “Roll With The Changes”, and “Back On The Road Again” cemented his status as one of the most iconic American rock guitarists ever!
He's just such a natural....this fires me up but saddens me at the same time.
Just a phenomenal Rock n Roll guitar player. May he RIP.
Gary is an example of the poison that is alcohol. Stop and watch your body transform. Rest in peace sir
From everything I’ve read, a really bad diet compounded things even more.😔
Les Paul and a Marshall amp.....no effects, no bullshit! One of may all-time favorite guitarist!!!
That i didn't realize- as someone who has been learning the guitar for many yrs now i have to not only agree, but it adds to the remarkable legacy- We can only hope that he realized what an impact he had on so many people-wait a minute-oh oh -the miserable hof called and said"not worthy" - Psssd Please
me too
No these guys always had some reverb or echo on their guitar at the least. You can hear it during the solo with a few milideconds of delay. Standard stuff.
I'm sure ole Gary Richrath had a trick or two brah but, he got that bad ass tone out of a very rudimentary set up-
When working with horses, particularly babies (2-3yr olds)
A lot of time , well actually most of the time, less is more- I believe this works out for a lot of things in life...
@@davidrice3337
Yes, he had a basic classic rock tone with reverb or slight echo and slight delay to fatten up his sound. He was probably also incorporating 25 watt 12 inch Celestion greenbacks.
Gary is still killing that guitar. That's REAL freaking talent right there. Not like the 'musicians' of today.
REO Speedwagon, and so many others, had LEGIT talent before autotune and all that tech made it so anyone can appear to have talent.
This is amazing. ♡
oh yeah it is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
RIP brother. You were one of the best.
Gary Richrath was a great guitarist! Saw REO Speedwagon in concert a few times in the 70s and 80's. They always put on a great concert.
Gary Richrath was the heart and soul of REO Speedwagon his incredible talent on lead guitar was the foundation of every song
GARY HAD ONE OF THE GREATEST STAGE PRESENCE he was a gifted musician all the fans & radio stations will miss him 🎸🎸
Gary Richrath will always and forever be known as a true legend in Rock n" Roll music history! R.I.P., Gary! You are dearly missed!
You can tune a piano...
Always THE Great Showman Gary Richrath. You had it Gary, that Magic Touch, and impeccable moves that made REO what it became, the World Class Rock N Roll Band that pleased millions of loyal fans over decades of great entertainment! Thank you REO SPEEDWAGON and R.I.P. Gary Richrath, we didn’t have you long enough, but what we had was great! Thank YOU!!!
Hard to believe this compared to his prime. We all age differently, but man, this was rough.
This is from December 4, 2013 in Bloomington, Illinois, it was a benefit concert titled "Rock to the Rescue" to raise money
for families affected by a tornado in central Illinois.
Robert Rice: I was wondering the date (you'd think it would be in the description). *Thank you.*
Wow his last jam was wailing he could definitely jam he's a rock n roll legend forever he rocked!
God bless you guys for giving Gary his due.....!
The only reason I listen to REO is because of that guitar playing.
Gary could do amazing things.
That and Neal Doughty's Keyboards and Alan Gratzer's Drumming!
The ONLY reason??? Not the fact they were also a great band with a lot of great tunes....?
@@thejimshepard9982 Your Right Still, They were an Awesome Group of Musicians.
What made Gary Richrath's playing special? Heart.
I know it’s Dave’s bad habit but check out him constantly checking the volume on his Les Paul at 1:55. Poor Dave was probably nervous and in awe of the great Gary Richrath playing his song. Gary was always more at ease at made it all look so easy. RIP Gary, you will never be forgotten. Kevin said this show was the last he saw of Gary but said that he was glad they made their peace.
Mr. Gary Richrath that guy could blaze , Guitar 🎸 hero of the Midwest . From the Red Lion 🦁 to Auditoriums. You will be remembered. A 🥰 Champaign shout out to the legend!!!!!
It is very, very hard to believe that this is the same guy I saw rocking that Sunburst Les Paul back in the 70s.
The entire success of REO was Gary Richrath, he rocked and if not for him this band would have NEVER been so successful period
Says you.
Good guitar player. But anyone can play his parts. REO is because of Kevin. That voice is REO
@@daveg4236 Obviously the combination of all the group worked very well together, but Kevin's vocal-style is what defined the "REO sound." Every singers' voice has certain qualities, tones, and ranges; this sets the sound and "feeling" of the music when all together. What does this matter though....they were great!
@@williamsaloka9043 gee thanks.
Saw them several times back in the 80s...and twice recently....and I gotta say...they kinda suck without him....like Styx without Dennis
An Angel has earned his wings you are not forgotten memories live on my wonderful Angel
Gary was so amazing , it’s really sad and depressing what happened to him. I choose to remember him the way he was in the 80’s. Such a talented musician, love his pick slide. He put his own twist on it. I call it “the gary”. He was the coolest on stage back then with that smile and that hair . You will always be remembered loved and adored.!!your music will live on forever and ever ❤🙏
He was gorgeous and talented.. it is heartbreaking what happened to him.
Awesome the man Gary Richrath
He was and always will be a legend. RIP Gary When I listened to the 70's and 80's I was 15 basically a teenager. DiD not realize what I was listening to. MASTER. In his prime he was as good as Eddie....who back then I thought was God
Sweet man Gary you'll never be forgotten my Angel
4:33 so cool seeing them playing side by side again
He was a great guitarist and part of the heart of REO. However, he could not control his addictions - and that was his downfall. The rest of the band realized that they could not continue with the drugs and booze, but Gary could not take care of it. It is a sad story we have seen so many times in music...not sure why it is so prevalent, but it is.
He passed away as an Alcoholic! He could not fight his demons! Indeed, He was "The World's Greatest Guitarist" R.I.P. Gary...
Renued respect for Kevin Cronin after seeing a recent article where he and the other bandmates acknowledged the fact if it wasn't for Gary Richrath "there would be no REO Speedwagon"-
most other bands with similar situations wouldn't be as magnanimous - To this day i haven't heard a shredder that made an average- decent band great- (1 person's opinion,of course)
Kevin wrote great songs . Gary played great riffs and solos. Everyone needs everyone in a band. Rock On REO !!!
He reminds me of Rod Price, at this stage of their lives -
RIP, men & we'll get to party again, someday -
Rod Price another guitar legend .
This is so hard to watch. I saw REO 3 different times in Kansas City and was a fan from "Live, You Get What You Play For". Addiction is painful to watch as friend, co-worker, family member.....whoever. Gary had completely lost himself and it breaks my heart. He was one of my first guitar heroes (along with Ace Frehley and Ted Nugent).
Rev Willie..you to shall be judged..
@@richardcarter8134 Gary's demons are well documented. I guess anyone that has ever spoken about it is judging?
@@artheriford: Your post was fine and spot on. Richard Carter may have demons of his own.
@@billwilson5341
We all have them of some type brother. God bless Gary Richrath!
Rest in peace Gary. Such a gentle and normal guy's guy. I'll never forget my early college years at the Red Lion in Champaign listening to you play your heart out. Thanks for being such a part of my life and helping me getting on through. It's all Golden Country now!
Those 2 solos on Back On The Road Again. I never got them pure rock
in this humble bassist opinion, Mr Richrath never really got the credit he deserved. He truly deserved the term the most Underrated Guitarist in Rock N Roll. Maybe not the best, god know there are so many technical virtuosos out there, I wont start naming names. They are a dime a dozen. When it comes to down in the trenches Rock N Roll, writing, performing, living the dream, no one did it better than Mr. Gary Richrath. Rest In Power brother.
Poor Gary. Wow. He just looked awful. Alcholism did this to a great guitar player, songwriter and overall musician. He definately left his mark and blessed us with his talents.
Gary NEVER succumbed to ordinary life as a mere mortal. He lived and died as the rock and roll icon he was. God put that ability in his hands and fingers to create life from wood and steel and to let it live in our hearts forever.
You are absolutely right. Gary was an icon. He never got over the 'Hi Infidelity' high life. There's good reason the LP was called 'Hi Infidelity' as everybody was high and there was lots of infidelity going on. Neal Doughty and Kevin Cronin ended up divorced and Doughty went into rehab for alcohol and Gary for alcohol and coke. Doughty got it. Gary didn't. But he tried. Wish he coulda come out the other end, but it just wasn't to be. By 1986 REO as we knew it was done. It mighta been 1989 before Gary and Alan Gratzer left the band, but by 1986 they were ready to go. Gary and Kevin tried to bury the hatchet, but time took its toll. Cronin is writing a book. He's gonna tell it like it was. Bruce Hall already told everybody the band just couldn't get past the fame and fortune of 'Hi Infidelity.' Gratzer left to be with his family. Cronin and Doughty gave their's up. Gary was a recluse and he was never comfortable being alone. Bruce Hall had been a friend of the band until Gregg Philbin left in 87 and he took over on bass. You obviously were around, like I was, during their formative years. They were losing their contract with Epic when 'Hi Infidelity' came out, sold 10 million copies was #1 for 15 weeks. How do you deal with that? They had announced they were breaking up and suddenly were the biggest band of 1981. It made them and killed them. RIP Gary Richrath
@@rathert3 77 not 87, but a great post.
@@scottnugent4791 yes Greg left in 77 and Bruce took his place. I also thought Allan left in 88 not 89. But a very good post! RIP Gary Richrath! You were a great guitar player.
I don't know, man, sex, drugs and rock and roll will only take you so far. When all that partying catches up with you, ask 9 out of 10 of these guys and they'll say it wasn't worth it. Even Keith Richards says he regrets all the drugs because he lost a lot just in terms of creativity. When you're lying on that operating table and your insides look like Swiss cheese, the revelation comes too late.
Music like what Gary created flows from the heart and he was very fortunate to be so gifted with a way to express it.
Such an amazing talent.... that let himself go. So sad to see. I am glad that I saw REO in concert with Gary about 5 times. AWESOME shows!
Gary, we miss you!!😢
He played like it was his last gig, respect
This is my favorite REO song. So great to see Gary with them one last time.
Before I loved Jimmy Page ..before I loved Ace Frehley..Before I loved Schenker
I LOVED Gary Richrath. So sad he's not on a stage anymore..R.I.ROCK N ROLL HEAVEN
Richrath on guitar and the Reo keyboards let you know it was REO three chords in nothing else like it PERIOD❤
Oh man... God bless him; made me choke up. STILL HAD IT. 🤘🤘🤘RIP Gary🎸🎸🎸🙏🙏
Gary didn't age well but he was a hell of a talent.
I had been on medication like prednisone for to supress my immune system. It appears Gary may have been on meds that caused him to have puffed out look and weight gain. I've been there. May Gary be at peace--RIP.
@@tod3msn * *Uncle Elmer,* * My fiancee is now on cyclosporine. The prednisone wasn't to be used for her in a long-term duration due to the damaging liver issues that would have occurred. Her hives (were) out of control. How are you doing with your immune problems now?
@@JamminClemmons: You are correct. Pred should not be used long term because of its eventual side effects. Sometimes it's a tough call.
Gary was rumored to have substance abuse issues. He, like too many of us, was his worst enemy. A great talent gone too soon.
hand - heart coordination made his playing exceptional
Last Word's There Is No REO Speed Wagon Without Gary Richrath.
It's That Plain And Simple.
Epic Records Was Sold On Gary More Than The Band.
Take Nothing Away From The Rest Of Band Members.
Neal And Alan Started It.
Bringing In Kevin Letting Him Go And Bringing Him Back Was All Needed.
But Gary Always Stole The Show.
About A Dozen Show's For Me Before Gary Richrath Departure.
And Countless After Dave Amato Is A Very Good Guitarist.
But Gary Richrath Was An Amazing Guitarist.
And Developed His Own Unique Blend Of Blues And Midwest Rock-N-Roll.
R.I.P. Gary Knowing Forever Gary Richrath Was REO Speed Wagon.
Yep the man Gary was the best guitar player
Josie Owl yes he was super human. On stage. Sometimes. Rip.
Growing up in Illinois,REO was a favorite of mine since their first album.Neal,Gary,Alan,Gregg and Kevin and Michael Murphy always put on a great show.First time I saw them was in St.Louis, and I was hooked on Gary's guitar after seeing him on stage with his hair and his incredible playing.I've seen them live more times than I can remember,and every concert I saw Gary didn't disappoint.It was so sad seeing what alcohol addIction did to Gary.I will always remember him from what he looked like in the mid '70's.No RIP for Gary,as he is still tearing it up on the other side of the Rianbow Bridge!❤
God Bless Him!!!
It would have been my honor to he there that night .a true icon in the music world. RIP Gary. And thanks for the memories
Something I noticed about Gary. Whenever he was playing guitar, he's smiling. You're greatly missed Gary.
There's my Angel Gary Richrath
Gary's guitar work on "Live: You Get What You Play For" is what got me hooked on Rock and Roll when I was 10 yrs old.
That was a very difficult thing to do considering America was slap in the middle of the Disco era, and "Hi Infidelity" didn't come about until 3 yrs later. Gary was one of the most underrated guitarist in the history of Rock and Roll, not to mention his songwriting ability.
I love the live 157 Riverside Ave
There was no REO without the driving guitar tone of Gary.
Still awesome guitar playing live . Seems he's finally getting the respect he long deserved even if it's years overdue
His solo on roll with the changes in one of the best ever. EVER.
"Last Song Gary .. " Thank You for All the Kick Ass memories .. R.I.P.
Rest in peace brother.. You brought so many great moments... God bless
Two great guitarist Gary and Eddie, if I have to say last name you don't know. Guitarist
Lousy sound. Dishonors Garys' memory!! Video shouldn't have been f'n posted😡 Disrespects REOs' legacy! 🖕 RIP Gary😎
Dont do drugs mkay?
Loved Gary. It's insane to think that has replacement Dave Amato has been with REO for 34 years. He's 70 now.
What a Legendary guitarist!!!! RIP Gary!!!
Gary Richrath as an older gentleman reminds me of another Gary--Gary Rossington from Lynyrd Skynyrd (another "Gibson" man!)
Jas Blench maybe but he might have been trying to ensure the ending was good.
Yes it does
Nobody plays the Les Paul like the two Gary's.
@@rickadams6152 And they have VERY similar tone, sound, and styles when they play their Gibsons!
@@impalaman9707 I always call G. Rossington liquid tone" for the way he plays because his normal style is smoother than most slide playing by others. Without a doubt it was these two people who drove me to pick up a guitar and play in the first place. John Fogerty and Don Felder also played a part and of course many others I can't think of.
He has always been one of my favorite guitarist. Shame he didn't finish his career with REO
I saw Gary sometime in the late 80's at a pub in South Bend, IN. We were like two tables from the horribly small stage. I think I lost some of my hearing that night. Anyway he was quite polite and since we had an extra seat or two, he ended up sitting with us during all the breaks.
Great memory. I'm guessing you didn't bring a camera.
@@billwilson5341 I may have, but all my photos and autographs from the 100s of concerts in the 80's I attended were destroyed. I used albums that had a sticky background behind the clear cover. That adhesive interacted with the photos and even the autographs on paper and I lost them all. All I have are ticket stubs and some shirts now.
@@ripley7t429: I've heard that many people lost photographs the exact same way. What a loss!
I wore an REO shirt to work last week. Clothing from back then was made to last.
Take care, my friend.
It's a shame the quality isn't better. But it's one for the ages!! Truly a remarkable guitarist 🎸
Boy he was unrecognizable by this point. doesnt even look like him . The rest of them at least look normal though older . Sad what happened to Gary . I will forever have that searing guitar solo at the end of Roll with The Changes going thru my head . RIP .
RIP to one of one greatest leads of the greatest era of rock and roll.
He might have been in poor health but you could see him light up when he started playing
Rest in Peace, Gary Richrath🙏🕇
Gary make the Reo Speedwagon a Reo Speedwagon. Rip Gary
gary was reo.......................................................
Gary had great Tone , it was the first thing I noticed about REO the first time I heard them it was the guitar not the not the vocals not the song it was all guitar for me ... RIP GARY
Totally underrated player. We all gotta go. Rip
Way to slow WTF
Thank you for sharing this! It brings me such joy to see Gary happily playing. So glad he had this last opportunity. 💖
I also was born on 18 October and was nicknamed REO Sco back in late 70s. Saw Gary and REO perform live several times and can easily say Gary was the hand full of finest performers on the planet - :(. Loved the man!!!
THE SOUL IS ETERNAL STUPES.... SEE YOU LATER GARY..... 🤤
I saw REO many times in th 70's. Gary's prime...i will always remember him in that way.
What a bad ass performance. Reo still rocks.. r.i.p gary