Kansas Band

Progressive rock band Kansas were a popular touring act during the 1970s and 1980s, during the heyday of what was called "arena rock." The band continues to tour to this day, and their massive hit singles "Carry On Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind" continue to be played in heavy rotation on classic rock radio.

Fast Facts:

1. Active: 1971 - Present
2. Members: Steve Morse, Kerry Livgren, Steve Walsh, Phil Ehart, John Elefante, Billy Greer, Dave Hope, Robbie Steinhardt, Rich Williams
3. Fans known as "Wheatheads"
4. Kansas songs appear in the Will Ferrell movies Old School and Blades of Glory
5. "Carry On Wayward Son" appeared in the game Guitar Hero II and a South Park episode parodying the video game series

Early Years

Kansas formed in Topeka, Kansas in 1970 by guitarists Dave Hope and Kerry Livgren and drummer Phil Ehart, who had been friends in high school. Along with vocalist Lynn Meredith and other local musicians, the band toured throughout the early 1970s, changing their name along the way from The Reasons Why to Kansas.

After adding Robby Steinhardt, Steve Walsh and Rich Williams to the line-up, the band, now sometimes known as "Kansas III," recorded their self-titled debut album in 1974.

Success

The band's real breakthrough success came with the back-to-back releases of 1976's Leftoverture and 1977's Point of No Return, which included "Carry On Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind," respectively. During this time, the band had their greatest popularity as a live act, frequently selling out big venues.

In the 1980s, several members of Kansas became born-again Christians, causing tension among the band members about how much religious influence should be felt in the band's music. The band separated in 1984, after releasing the retrospective The Best of Kansas.

Present Day

A rotating roster of band members has been reforming and touring consistently since 1985.

Four former members of Kansas - Phil Ehart, David Ragsdale, Richard Williams and Billy Greer - have formed a new band called Native Window and will release a debut CD in 2008.

Categories