Kevin Cronin is the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist and songwriter of REO Speedwagon who has shaped classic rock music since the 1970s. Cronin entered REO Speedwagon in 1972 before taking a brief departure to return permanently in 1976 when the band achieved its greatest success. Through his distinctive tenor voice and his skill at writing meaningful lyrics, he established himself as the primary creative force behind rock music's most enduring ballads.

The album Hi Infidelity (1980) under Cronin's leadership achieved multi-platinum status and sold more than 10 million copies while delivering the successful singles "Keep On Loving You" and "Take It on the Run." The song "Keep On Loving You" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and continues to play on classic rock radio stations today.