Nine Lives: A Tribute to REO Speedwagon & Pink Houses USA: A Tribute to John Mellencamp

About this event

Two of the Midwest’s most beloved tribute acts, Nine Lives and Pink Houses USA, will share the stage at The Family Arena in St. Charles, Missouri on Friday, September 25. Nine Lives pays tribute to the legendary REO Speedwagon, while Pink Houses USA celebrates the iconic catalog of John Cougar Mellencamp. Nine Lives brings the timeless sound of REO Speedwagon back to life with five seasoned St. Louis-area musicians who collectively boast over 200 years of combined stage experience. At the heart of the show is lead vocalist Tim Levene, whose uncanny portrayal of Kevin Cronin captures every nuance of the legendary frontman — from the vocals to the guitar and piano work that define REO’s iconic live performances. Alongside him, guitarist Tom delivers the blistering Les Paul mastery of Gary Richrath with jaw-dropping authenticity, replicating every signature lead note-for-note. Holding down the low end is bassist Rob, a true St. Louis music veteran who has shared the stage with virtually everyone in the regional scene. His rock-solid foundation — and surprisingly powerful voice — makes him the band’s secret weapon. Behind the kit, drummer Bobby brings the same ironclad rhythmic backbone he honed as drummer for RED, the acclaimed Sammy Hagar tribute, ensuring REO’s driving sound hits just as hard as it always has. Rounding out the lineup is keyboardist Wayne, another RED alumnus whose versatility across piano, synthesizer, and organ — sharpened through years with top regional acts like Tribute, Incognito, and Superjam — adds the lush harmonic texture that completes the experience. Together, Nine Lives delivers a note-perfect, high-energy tribute that will have you riding the storm out all night long. Pink Houses USA was born two years ago as a passion project, dedicated to honoring the powerhouse catalog of John Cougar Mellencamp. Each musician was handpicked through a deliberate audition process, assembling what has quickly become one of the Midwest’s strongest…