Best REO Speedwagon Guitar Songs to Learn

Whether you're into rock anthems like Ridin' the Storm Out or emotional favorites like Keep On Loving You, you'll find step-by-step lessons, strumming tips, and chord guidance right here.

Scroll through the list below, watch the demo video snippets, and grab the full lesson pack to start learning today.

Don't Let Him Go was the bands first single from their 1980 album "Hi Infidelity". The song was written by lead vocalist Kevin Cronin and produced by Kevin Beamish.

"Don't Let Him Go" is a classic rock track that features a catchy melody and upbeat instrumentation. The song's lyrics are about a man trying to convince his friend's girlfriend not to let him go, as he fears losing him to another woman. The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "don't let him go" as a plea to the girlfriend to hold onto her relationship with the man.

I Can't Fight This Feeling is a power ballad from REO Speedwagon that was released as a single from their 1984 album "Wheels Are Turnin'" and was written by the band's lead vocalist, Kevin Cronin.

The song features a prominent piano intro, lush instrumentation, and emotive vocals. The lyrics describe the inner turmoil of a man who realizes that he has fallen deeply in love with a friend, and despite his initial reservations, he cannot deny his feelings any longer. The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "I can't fight this feeling anymore" as the protagonist comes to terms with his love.

"I Can't Fight This Feeling" was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in March 1985, becoming the band's second number one hit. It also reached the top 10 on several other charts, including the Canadian and Australian charts. The song's success helped propel the album "Wheels Are Turnin'" to multi-platinum status.

"I Can't Fight This Feeling" has remained a beloved classic rock ballad and has been featured in several films, TV shows, and commercials. The song is considered one of REO Speedwagon's most recognizable and enduring hits.

Keep On Lovin' You is another power ballad by REO Speedwagon that was released as a single from their 1980 album "Hi Infidelity" and was written by the band's lead vocalist, Kevin Cronin.

The song features a prominent keyboard riff, guitar solos, and emotional vocals. The lyrics describe a man who is trying to convince his lover that he is committed to their relationship and is willing to do whatever it takes to make it work.

The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in March 1981, becoming the band's first and only number one hit. It also reached the top 10 on several other charts, including the Canadian and Australian charts. 

Cronin recalls that the band were not very receptive when they heard him first play it on the piano, but eventually all got on board and the rest is history. 

One Lonely Night is another rock ballad by REO Speedwagon that was released as a single from their 1984 album "Wheels Are Turnin'" and was written by lead vocalist Kevin Cronin and guitarist Gary Richrath.

The song begins with a haunting synthesizer intro before launching into a driving rock rhythm. The lyrics describe a man who is feeling lost and alone after a failed relationship and is trying to make sense of his emotions. The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "one lonely night" as the protagonist reflects on his feelings of isolation.

While not as commercially successful as some of REO Speedwagon's other hits, "One Lonely Night" still received significant airplay on rock radio stations and has remained a favorite among fans.

There is a video for this song but I'd have to say it's a bit of a goofy video IMHO. I wouldn't hire that guy to produce any more music videos if I were REO Speedwagon.

Ridin' the Storm Out is a classic rock song by REO Speedwagon, written by the band's guitarist, Gary Richrath. It was originally released in 1973 on the album of the same name, but a live version of the song from the band's 1980 album "You Get What You Play For" became the most popular version.

The live version, which features a guitar solo by Richrath that has become iconic, has been praised by music critics for its energy and musicianship.

Interestingly, the song was inspired by an actual storm that hit Champaign, Illinois, where the band was based at the time. The power went out during a gig, but the band kept playing by the light of their instruments until the electricity was restored. This experience inspired Richrath to write "Ridin' the Storm Out."

The song managed to peak at #102 in the US.

Rock N Roll Star was not released as a single from REO's 1984 album Wheels Are Turnin'. The track was written by Kevin Cronin, Tom Kelly and Gary Richrath.

The song's lyrics describe a musician who is living the life of a rock star, playing gigs, partying, and living for the moment as the protagonist expresses his desire for fame and fortune.

"Rock 'n' Roll Star" has become a fan favorite and is often played at the band's concerts. The live version on the album features an extended guitar solo by Richrath, showcasing his virtuosity and musicianship.

While "Rock 'n' Roll Star" was not a major commercial success, it has remained an important track in REO Speedwagon's catalog and has been included on several of the band's greatest hits compilations. The song captures the spirit of the 1970s rock scene and remains a popular classic rock anthem.

Roll With The Changes is a classic rock single released from REO Speedwagon's 1978 album "You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can't Tuna Fish." The song, written by lead vocalist Kevin Cronin, boasts a driving rock rhythm, an unforgettable guitar riff, and soaring vocals. The lyrics describe a person facing change and uncertainty in life but is determined to face these changes with strength and come out better on the other side.

The song became one of REO Speedwagon's biggest hits, reaching number 58 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become a classic rock radio staple and a favorite on rock compilation albums. 

"Roll With The Changes" remains one of REO Speedwagon's most famous songs, covered by several other artists over the years. It has also been featured in several movies and TV shows, cementing its status as a classic rock anthem.

Take It On The Run was another single released from their 1980 album "Hi Infidelity." The song was written by lead guitarist Gary Richrath and features a memorable guitar riff and catchy chorus.

The lyrics describe a man who suspects his partner of cheating on him and tells her to take her lies and leave, as he doesn't want to hear them anymore. The chorus repeats the phrase "take it on the run," emphasizing the protagonist's desire to move on from the relationship.

"Take It on the Run" became one of REO Speedwagon's biggest hits, peaking at number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's success can be attributed to its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, as well as its memorable guitar riff.

Don't Let Me Down was the original title of the song but Cronin convinced the others to change it to Take It On The Run.

Time For Me To Fly hails from REO Speedwagon's 1978 album "You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can't Tuna Fish." The song was written by lead vocalist Kevin Cronin and features a prominent piano riff and powerful vocals.

"Time for Me to Fly" was a modest commercial success for REO Speedwagon, reaching number 56 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, the song has since become a classic rock staple and is often featured on radio stations and in movies and TV shows.

The song's message of self-determination and empowerment has resonated with listeners over the years, and its memorable chorus has become a popular sing-along at REO Speedwagon concerts. "Time for Me to Fly" remains one of the band's most enduring and beloved songs.

Dolly Parton even did a bluegrass version of this song.