Photo by Larry Philpot, www.soundstagephotography.com, via Wikicommons Above, REO Speedwagon members Bruce Hall, Kevin Cronin, and Dave Amato perform in Indianapolis in 2011. Thirteen performances were postponed this year including two at the Island Resort and Casino in Harris due to Cronin requiring robotic surgery.

HARRIS — The REO Speedwagon concerts scheduled to take place at the Island Resort & Casino in Harris next week have been postponed due to health concerns for the band’s lead singer, Kevin Cronin.

The 66-year-old Cronin, who has provided vocals as well as rhythm guitar and piano for the band since the 1970s, issued a statement on the band’s website, reospeedwagon.com, on Jan. 11.

“Hi friends, there are times in life when our bodies send us messages that we can’t ignore & this is one of those times. Fortunately for me, it is nothing life-threatening. I need a routine procedure, which is so simple it can be performed by a robot. R2D2 is busy saving the universe, but I understand there is another highly qualified robotic surgeon who works out of Cedars-Sinai Hospital here in Los Angeles. My doctor says I will be good as new. I am deeply disappointed that I have to ask the greatest fans in rock ‘n roll to change their plans. All I can do is ask for your understanding and I truly appreciate your support. The new dates will be announced as soon as possible… Much love, kc”

The nature of the surgery was not stated on the band’s official site. However, it was noted that Cronin would be back on stage for performances scheduled in March, and that the band was working to reschedule shows planned for January and February.

A day after the announcement, the Island Resort & Casino turned to social media to update ticket-holders about the performances.

“We have recently received word about the band from REO Speedwagon’s management. Unfortunately, due to a surgery appointment the band will have to reschedule their tour for future dates.

Island Resort and Casino has been in contact with REO management regarding the show at the Showroom for Jan 26/27 and that it will be postponed and rescheduled.

We are working with and awaiting verification from REO Speedwagon’s management about rescheduled dates and those will be released once we get confirmation.

Please be assured that your ticket will be valid for the rescheduled date.

Thank you for your patience while we work to sort this out!

Island Resort & Casino.”

Cronin’s surgery will postpone 13 performances, including both performances at the Island Showroom. Fans in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Illinois, Lower Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska were all affected by the postponements.

The first scheduled concert in March, when Cronin should be back on stage, will take place at the Resch Center in Green Bay on March 11. The event is a Red Cross benefit concert for hurricane and wildfire relief as well as local veterans and other charities. Also performing will be .38 Special.