What makes Ridin' the Storm Out by REO Speedwagon notable?

The album features the titular track, which became one of the band's signature songs and helped solidify their popularity in rock music. It gained notable airplay on FM radio and contributed to the band's commercial success, laying groundwork for their future acclaim in the late '70s and early '80s. Ridin' the Storm Out is REO Speedwagon's third studio album, released in January 1973, following their self-titled debut and 'Ridin' the Storm Out'. At this point, the band was establishing its presence in the rock scene, transitioning from a heavy blues-oriented sound to a more accessible rock style that would define their later hits.

Who is Ridin' the Storm Out for?

Ridin' the Storm Out works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, cathartic release during storms and background energy for gatherings.

How many songs are on Ridin' the Storm Out?

Ridin' the Storm Out has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Ridin' the Storm Out

REO Speedwagon · 1973

36 min · 10 tracks · rock music

A fusion of hard rock energy and melodic sensibilities, driven by powerful vocals and dynamic instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ridin' the Storm Out — This track serves as an anthem of resilience, encapsulating the album's themes with its driving rhythm and urgent vocals, making it a standout in their discography.
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Whiskey Night — Blending reflective lyrics with an upbeat tempo, this song showcases the band’s ability to combine storytelling with catchy melodies, reflecting their evolving sound.
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Son of a Poor Man — This track highlights a poignant narrative about social struggles while maintaining a strong melodic hook, illustrating REO Speedwagon’s lyrical depth alongside musical energy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album balances energetic rock with melodic elements but lacks a strong cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The title track opens the album with a strong, driving rhythm and powerful vocals, setting a high-energy tone.
Several tracks feature prominent guitar solos that showcase technical skill and add to the hard rock feel.
The final track ends on a softer note, contrasting with the energetic opening and providing a sense of closure.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
cathartic release during storms
background energy for gatherings
sing-along anthems for road trips

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Ridin' the Storm Out is REO Speedwagon's third studio album, released in January 1973, following their self-titled debut and 'Ridin' the Storm Out'. At this point, the band was establishing its presence in the rock scene, transitioning from a heavy blues-oriented sound to a more accessible rock style that would define their later hits.
Stylistic neighbors: Styx· Journey· Foreigner