Richrath, former REO Speedwagon guitarist, songwriter, dies

NEW YORK (AP) – Gary Richrath, a former guitarist for the classic rock band REO Speedwagon who also co-wrote the group’s hit song “Take It on the Run,” died Sunday, according to a publicist for the band. He was 65.

Erik Stein confirmed on Monday that Richrath passed away but offered no details about the cause of death.

Richrath was a member of the band when it released its self-titled debut in 1971. He was with REO Speedwagon until 1989.

He co-wrote some of the band’s songs, including “Take It on the Run,” which became a Top 5 pop hit on the Billboard charts.

Richrath last played with REO Speedwagon in 2013, when the band performed a benefit concert in Bloomington, Illinois, to raise money for tornado victims.

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