If you’re a fan of REO Speedwagon or just exploring their discography, this comprehensive list covers all their studio albums in chronological order. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to their music, understanding their album progression helps appreciate their evolution and musical milestones. Here’s a detailed guide to every REO Speedwagon album, complete with key details to help you navigate their impressive catalog.
1. REO Speedwagon (1971)
The band’s debut album, “REO Speedwagon,” was released in 1971. It features a blend of blues-rock and progressive influences, showcasing their early sound. Tracks like “Golden Country” and “157 Riverside Avenue” hint at the band’s future musical direction, making it a must-listen for understanding their roots.
2. R.E.O./T.W.O. (1972)
Released in 1972, this second album marked a refinement of their sound with tighter arrangements. It includes the energetic “Son of a Poor Man,” which became a fan favorite. The album demonstrates their growing confidence and songwriting skills, setting the stage for their later success.
3. REO (1973)
The 1973 album “REO” features a heavier rock style. Notable tracks like “Say She’s Only a Dream” showcase the band’s versatility. This record reflects their experimentation with different sounds before achieving mainstream fame.
4. Lost in a Dream (1974)
Released in 1974, “Lost in a Dream” contains a mix of ballads and rockers, highlighting their developing melodic sensibilities. Songs like “Like You Do” reveal their growing ability to craft catchy tunes. This album is a bridge between their early raw sound and more polished productions.
5. This Time We Mean It (1975)
The 1975 album is characterized by a more mature sound, with tighter arrangements and introspective lyrics. Tracks like “Show Me Somebody” demonstrate their evolving songwriting. It’s a pivotal record that shows their transition toward mainstream rock.
6. R.E.O. (1976)
Releasing in 1976, this album features the hit “157 Riverside Avenue,” which became a staple of their live shows. The album’s energetic style and memorable hooks helped solidify their presence in the rock scene. It’s often regarded as a fan favorite and a key album in their catalog.
7. You Can Tune a Piano but You Can’t Tuna Fish (1978)
Arguably their breakthrough album, released in 1978, it includes hits like “Roll with the Changes” and “Time for Me to Fly.” The album blends rock and pop elements, capturing their commercial peak. Its polished sound and catchy tunes earned them widespread recognition.
8. Nine Lives (1979)
Released in 1979, “Nine Lives” continues their success with tracks like “Keep On Loving You,” which became their signature ballad. The album’s production is more refined, emphasizing their melodic approach. It marked their highest charting position and cemented their place in rock history.
9. Hi Infidelity (1980)
One of their most iconic albums, “Hi Infidelity,” debuted in 1980. It features chart-topping singles such as “Take It on the Run” and “Keep On Loving You.” The album’s slick production and memorable hooks made it a commercial juggernaut, earning multi-platinum status.
10. Good Trouble (1982)
Following their massive success, “Good Trouble” was released in 1982. It includes hits like “That Ain’t Love” and “Sweet Time.” The album maintains their rock-pop sound while exploring more contemporary production styles, reflecting their adaptability in the early ’80s.
How to Choose
When selecting a REO Speedwagon album, consider what aspects of their music appeal to you most. Do you prefer their early bluesy and progressive rock roots or their polished ’80s pop-rock hits? Listening to key tracks from each album can help you determine which period resonates most. Additionally, production style, songwriting maturity, and the presence of hit singles are factors that can guide your choice. For newcomers, starting with “Hi Infidelity” is often recommended, but exploring their earlier works offers a richer understanding of their evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which REO Speedwagon album is the most popular?
“Hi Infidelity” (1980) is their most commercially successful album, featuring hits like “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It on the Run.”
2. Are there any live albums by REO Speedwagon?
Yes, their most notable live album is “You Get What You Play For,” released in 1977, capturing their energetic stage presence during the late ’70s.
3. Which album should I start with if I want their biggest hits?
Starting with “Hi Infidelity” provides a comprehensive collection of their most famous songs and is a good entry point into their catalog.
4. Did REO Speedwagon release any albums after 1982?
Yes, they continued releasing albums through the 1980s and beyond, including “Wheels Are Turnin'” (1984) and “The Earth, a Small Man, His Dog and a Chicken” (1990), but these are outside the scope of the original list.
5. Are all their albums still available on streaming services?
Most of their classic albums, especially from the 1970s and early 1980s, are available on major streaming platforms, making it easy to explore their full discography.
Final Thoughts
REO Speedwagon’s discography reflects a band that evolved from blues-influenced rock to polished pop-rock giants. Their albums not only chart their musical journey but also showcase their ability to craft memorable melodies and relatable lyrics. Whether you’re interested in their early raw sound or their chart-topping hits, exploring their albums in chronological order offers a comprehensive understanding of their legacy. Dive into their catalog, discover your favorite era, and appreciate the timeless appeal of REO Speedwagon’s music.
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