Turn back the clock rock

There will be some middle-age rockers both in the crowd and on stage tonight at the Civic Center Coliseum. Styx and REO Speedwagon are on tour and make an Amarillo stop before a crowd that will be full of 40- and 50-somethings.

The groups were a staple in the 1980s. Styx was actually formed in 1970 and had eight consecutive multi-platinum albums. "Grand Illusion" may be their most memorable. The group is noted for such hits as "Come Sail Away," "Lady" and "The Best of Times."

The group has undergone changes, but J.Y. Young, vocalist and guitar,has been with them since 1972. He's -- gulp -- 59 years old. Vocalist Tommy Shaw, who came on board in 1975, didn't perform for 12 years, but has been with Styx since 1995.

REO Speedwagon was formed 42 years ago in 1967. Lead vocalist Kevin Cronin doesn't quite have the locks he used to. Then again, he's 58. "Keep on Lovin' You" and "Can't Fight This Feeling" are their signature songs.

As old as they are, they're still better than a lot of current musicians out there today.