Terry Luttrell’s Scary Accident Following REO Speedwagon Reunion Show
Automobile Incident After Reunion Concert
Early REO Speedwagon vocalist Terry Luttrell experienced a frightening automobile accident after participating in a reunion concert at a venue connected to the University of Illinois in Champaign, where the band originally formed. Luttrell revealed that he fell asleep while driving on Interstate 57 on Sunday night, resulting in a crash. “It just happened,” he recounted to The News-Gazette. “I nodded off. I rolled the car over, and I woke up and I was in a cocoon [of airbags]. Unfortunately, it totaled the car.”
Musical Legacy and Recent Activities
Terry Luttrell served as the frontman for REO Speedwagon during the release of their self-titled debut album in 1971, contributing to all eight tracks as a co-writer. He continues to perform with his tribute group, the REO Classics Band, and has recently reissued his album, Live at Shock City Studios, in a limited-edition red vinyl format.
Celebrating the Band’s Origins
The reunion concert, titled “Honoring the Legacy of REO Speedwagon: A Concert Event – Back Where it All Began,” featured Luttrell alongside original band members, including keyboardist Neal Doughty and drummer Alan Gratzer, who were part of the band’s formative years. Additional participants included guitarist Steve Scorfina and bassist Bruce Hall, as well as early singer Mike Murphy. Hall emphasized the event’s purpose: “This event was created to provide the founding fathers, original singers, and classic REO lineup a chance to reunite and say a proper goodbye,” he stated, while also honoring the memories of late band members Gary Richrath and Gregg Philbin. Notably, Kevin Cronin, the longest-serving frontman, was performing with Styx that same night in Bend, Oregon.
Injuries and Recovery
Despite the severity of the accident, Luttrell only sustained a cracked sternum due to the airbag deployment. He spent a couple of days recuperating at a local hospital. “I was able to get up and get out of the car,” he mentioned. “I have a little back pain and neck pain. It’s nothing that can’t be overcome.”
Causes of Fatigue
Luttrell attributed his exhaustion to extended autograph sessions held during the concert after-party and at the hotel, where he encountered around 40 more fans awaiting his signatures. “It was just sign-sign-sign,” he said, estimating that he didn’t manage to get to bed until 4:30 AM. He was back on the road by 7 AM the next day.
Conclusion
Terry Luttrell’s recent accident serves as a reminder of the importance of rest, especially after a busy event filled with fan interactions. While he faced a challenging situation, his resilience shines through as he recovers from his injuries and continues to celebrate the legacy of REO Speedwagon.
FAQs
What happened to Terry Luttrell after the reunion concert?
Terry Luttrell was involved in a serious car accident after falling asleep while driving home from the reunion concert.
What injuries did he sustain from the accident?
Luttrell sustained a cracked sternum but reported that he was otherwise able to recover quickly.
What was the purpose of the reunion concert?
The concert aimed to honor the original members of REO Speedwagon and provide a chance for them to reunite and pay tribute to their late bandmates.
How did Luttrell feel about the concert and his performance?
Luttrell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform again and connect with fans, despite the exhaustion that followed. He enjoyed signing autographs and engaging with attendees.
