Several original members of the legendary progressive rock band Kansas recently reunited with the current lineup for a special concert. This rare appearance took place on Friday in Bonner Springs, Kansas, marking a significant moment for fans of the group.
The reunion featured four founding members joining the band on stage. They performed during the encore, delivering two of Kansas's most iconic songs. This event highlights the band's enduring legacy and its connection to its roots.
Key Takeaways
- Original Kansas members reunited for a concert in Bonner Springs.
- Founding members Phil Ehart, Richard Williams, Kerry Livgren, and Dave Hope joined the current lineup.
- They performed "Hold On" and "Carry on Wayward Son" during the encore.
- Richard Williams and Phil Ehart remain official members despite recent health and travel challenges.
- The band is currently on its 50th-anniversary tour.
Original Members Join Current Band Lineup
Phil Ehart, Richard Williams, Kerry Livgren, and Dave Hope appeared on stage with Kansas. This reunion happened during their performance in Bonner Springs, Kansas. According to Ultimate Classic Rock, they joined for the encore segments of "Hold On" and "Carry on Wayward Son."
Ehart, the original drummer, and Williams, the original guitarist, are still official members of Kansas. However, both have faced challenges recently. Ehart had a heart attack last year, which led him to step away from the band's 50th-anniversary tour. Williams was recently replaced by guitarist Scott Bernard for touring duties.
Band Formation
Kansas was co-founded by Richard Williams and Phil Ehart in Topeka, Kansas, in 1973. The band quickly rose to prominence in the progressive rock genre.
Richard Williams Addresses Tour Changes
Richard Williams, 75, spoke about his reduced touring schedule last month. He clarified that he is not retiring from the band. Instead, he is slowing down due to health reasons.
"I am not stepping down nor retiring, but I am slowing down," Williams stated, referring to Bernard as "my hand-picked choice to help carry on the legacy of the band Kansas."
Williams co-founded Kansas with Ehart, 74, in their hometown of Topeka, Kansas, in 1973. He played a crucial role in many of the band's biggest hits. These include "Carry On Wayward Son," "Dust in the Wind," and "Play the Game Tonight."
Williams' Eye Condition
Williams lost his right eye in a childhood fireworks accident. He has worn an eye patch for many years after using a prosthetic eye. This personal detail has been a well-known aspect of his public image.
His decision to reduce touring stems from a medical condition. "Macular degeneration has made travel increasingly difficult to the point where it impedes my ability to get to as many shows as I want. I will still be at, and perform at, as many concerts as I can," Williams explained in August. Macular degeneration is an eye disease that can cause significant vision loss in older adults.
Former Members Return to Stage
Kerry Livgren and Dave Hope are both former members of Kansas. Their participation in the Bonner Springs concert was a welcome surprise for many long-time fans.
Livgren contributed guitars, keyboards, and backing vocals to Kansas from 1973 to 1983. He has also made several guest appearances and participated in reunions over the years. His songwriting was instrumental in shaping the band's sound.
Hope provided bass and backup vocals during the same initial period, from 1973 to 1983. Like Livgren, he has also joined the band for various reunions and guest performances since his departure. Their return to the stage underscored the band's rich history.
Current Kansas Lineup Continues Tour
The current lineup of Kansas includes Ronnie Platt on vocals and keyboards. Tom Brislin also plays keyboards and provides vocals. Zak Rizvi is on guitar, and Joe Deninzon handles violin and guitar. Dan McGowan plays bass and contributes vocals, while Eric Holmquist is the drummer, filling in for Ehart since last year.
Kansas is currently on tour. Their schedule extends through mid-February. They are performing with other notable bands, including .38 Special, Jefferson Starship, and Blue Oyster Cult. Fans interested in attending these concerts can find tickets through platforms like Seat Geek and Vivid Seats.
- Vocalist/Keyboardist: Ronnie Platt
- Keyboardist/Vocalist: Tom Brislin
- Guitarist: Zak Rizvi
- Violinist/Guitarist: Joe Deninzon
- Bassist/Vocalist: Dan McGowan
- Drummer: Eric Holmquist (filling in for Phil Ehart)
The band's 50th-anniversary tour continues to celebrate five decades of music. This reunion event adds another memorable chapter to their storied career. It shows the strong bond among past and present members.
Many fans reacted positively to the news on social media. One fan commented, "It's incredible to see them all together again. A true testament to their music." Another added, "This is what rock and roll is all about – legends coming together." The band's official Instagram account also shared a post, generating significant engagement from their global fanbase.
The enduring appeal of Kansas's music is evident in the continued success of their tours and the excitement surrounding such reunions. Their progressive rock sound has influenced generations of musicians and captivated millions of listeners worldwide.