Gregg Philbin Obituary

Gregg Philbin was a former REO Speedwagon bassist who made his debut on the band’s self-titled debut album in 1971 and continued to play on each subsequent LP until 1976’s R.E.O.

Their first six albums failed to make much of a commercial impact, though Live: You Get What You Play For became the band’s first gold album.

You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can’t Tuna Fish, REO Speedwagon’s first studio album without Philbin, became their first Top 40 hit and went double platinum.

Gregg Philbin passed away on October 24, 2022. His cause of death has not been made public. However, the tribute paid by his former band singer hinted that he was ill for some time.

In a statement released by the band, singer Kevin Cronin paid tribute to his former bandmate. “No one should underestimate the Philbin Factor in REO Speedwagon’s evolution,” Cronin wrote.

Gregg was a smart, funny, charming guy, and you would be hard-pressed to find a more savvy individual,” he concluded. “His health had been an issue for some time, and today his soul is freed.

We all loved Gregg, mourn his death and send our condolences to his surviving family members and friends. Today is a sad day in REO World.”

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