Yes, REO Speedwagon did achieve multiple number one hits during their career, with "Keep On Loving You" being their first to reach the top spot.
REO Speedwagon's Chart-Topping Success
REO Speedwagon, a prominent American rock band, is celebrated for its enduring hits and significant contributions to the rock music landscape. Among their many popular songs, two distinct tracks managed to climb all the way to the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying their legacy in popular music history.
"Keep On Loving You": Their First Chart-Topper
On March 21, 1981, REO Speedwagon marked a pivotal moment in their career when their power ballad "Keep On Loving You" first hit number one. This single was the inaugural release from the band's highly successful ninth studio album, Hi Infidelity. It ascended to the top of the charts, replacing Eddie Rabbitt's "I Love a Rainy Night," and held the number one spot for a single week before being surpassed. The widespread appeal of "Keep On Loving You" was instrumental in the monumental success of its parent album.
"Can't Fight This Feeling": Their Second Number One
Years later, REO Speedwagon achieved another significant milestone with "Can't Fight This Feeling," which also soared to number one. This ballad topped the Billboard Hot 100 on March 9, 1985, and remained there for three consecutive weeks, further cementing their status as hitmakers.
Here's a summary of their number one hits:
| Song Title | Album | Chart Peak | Date Achieved | Weeks at #1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keep On Loving You | Hi Infidelity | #1 | March 21, 1981 | 1 |
| Can't Fight This Feeling | Wheels Are Turnin' | #1 | March 9, 1985 | 3 |
The Phenomenon of Hi Infidelity
While "Keep On Loving You" was a standalone hit, the album from which it came, Hi Infidelity, became a commercial juggernaut. Released in 1980, this album was a multi-platinum success, spending 15 weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 album chart and selling over 10 million copies in the United States alone. Its success was fueled by several hit singles, demonstrating the band's widespread appeal during the early 1980s.
Legacy and Other Enduring Tracks
Beyond their chart-topping singles, REO Speedwagon has produced a wealth of other beloved songs that continue to be staples on classic rock radio. Their extensive discography blends melodic rock anthems with heartfelt ballads. Some of their other well-known and successful tracks include:
- "Take It on the Run": Another Top 5 hit from the Hi Infidelity album.
- "Roll with the Changes": A signature track from their 1978 album, You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can't Tuna Fish.
- "Keep the Fire Burnin'": A Top 10 single from their 1982 album, Good Trouble.
- "Time for Me to Fly": Another popular track showcasing their melodic rock style.
These songs, alongside their number one hits, underscore REO Speedwagon's lasting impact on rock music and their ability to connect with a broad audience through their distinctive sound.
