Ronnie Platt Performs “Wrigley Field Trifecta!”

On Tuesday, September 22, 2015, KANSAS Lead Vocalist, and Chicago native, Ronnie Platt visited the “Friendly Confines” of Wrigley Field where the special guest of the Chicago Cubs. While there he performed the “Wrigley Trifecta” of throwing out the game’s ceremonial first pitch, singing “The Star Spangled Banner,” and leading the audience in singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the 7th-Inning Stretch.

Before the game, Cubs Manager Joe Maddon took some time to say, “Hello,” and introduce himself to Ronnie.

Here’s video of Ronnie’s 7th-Inning Stretch performance courtesy of Major League Baseball.

Photos Courtesy of Kaitlyn August, Chicago Cubs.

KANSAS Signs Worldwide Recording Deal with InsideOutMusic

InsideOut Music is extremely pleased to announce the worldwide signing of legendary US rock group KANSAS for the release of their forthcoming 15th studio album. KANSAS needs no introduction, having sold over 30 million records in their career, as well as achieving 8 gold albums, three sextuple-platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point Of Know Return, The Best Of Kansas), a platinum live album (Two for the Show) and a million-selling gold single (“Dust In The Wind”).

Drummer and founding member Phil Ehart had this to say about the signing:
“In speaking for all the members of KANSAS, we could not be more enthused about signing with InsideOut. They are the greatest Prog music label on the planet and we are very proud to be a part of their stable of artists. It’s our first album of new music in 15 years and we are very happy to be working with the great team at InsideOut.”

InsideOutMusic label-head Thomas Waber adds:
“We are extremely excited about signing KANSAS, the biggest and most important Prog band to come out of the US! I grew up listening to them and their music is a part of my DNA. Everyone on the team is working hard in making the next studio album count 150% and for it to become an important part in the legacy of this great band. We are very proud to become a part of the journey!”

KANSAS is currently comprised of original drummer Phil Ehart, bassist/vocalist Billy Greer, keyboardist David Manion, lead singer/keyboardist Ronnie Platt, violinist/guitarist David Ragsdale, and original guitarist Richard Williams. They are currently in the midst of an extensive US tour.

KANSAS continues to remain a fixture of Classic Rock radio and has reached a whole new audience through their unmistakable presence on popular video games Rock Band and Guitar Hero, and through their songs inclusion in various television shows such as ‘Supernatural,’  ‘South Park,’ and the films ‘Old School,’ and ‘Anchorman.’

You can find the full list of announced tour dates below:

US Live Dates 2015/2016
4/9 Taste of Colorado – Denver, CO
5/9 Saban Theatre – Beverley Hills, CA
6/9 Freemont Street Experience Summer – Las Vegas, NV
8/9 Crest Theatre – Sacramento, CA
10/9 Chumash Casino – Santa Ynez, CA
11/9 Casino Pauma – Pauma Valley, CA
12/9 Santa Clarita PAC – Santa Clarita, CA
17/9 Marina Civic Center – Panama City, FL
18/9 Newberry Opera House – Newberry, SC
19/9 Niswonger Performing Arts Center – Greeneville, TN
25/9 Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel – Providence, RI
26/9 The Big E – West Springfield, MA
27/9 Blue Ocean Music Hall – Salisbury, MA
1/10 Emporia Granada – Emporia, KS
2/10 Lied Center of Kansas – Lawrence, KS
3/10 United Wireless Arena – Dodge City, KS
9/10 Tarrytown Music Hall – Tarrytown, NY
10/10 Patchogue Theatre – Patchogue, NY
11/10 Sherman Theater – Stroudsberg, PA
15/10 Landis Theater – Vineland, NJ
16/10 Keswick Theatre – Glenside, PA
17/10 Turningstone Resort & Casino Showroom – Verona, NY
22/10 Arcada Theatre – St. Charles, IL
23/10 Arcada Theatre – St. Charles, IL
24/10 Diamond Jo Casino – Dubuque, IA
25/10 Mystic Lake Casino – Prior Lake, MN
29/10 Capitol Theatre – Clearwater, FL
30/10 Maxwell C. King Venter for the Performing Arts – Melborune, FL
4/12 Parker Playhouse – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
5/12 The Plaza Theatre – Orlando, DL
6/12 Florida Theatre – Jacksonville, FL
5/3 Oxford Performing Arts Centre – Oxford, AL
8/4 American Music Theatre – Lancaster, PA
15/4 Potter Centre – Jackson, MI
14/5 Marion Palace Theatre – Marion, OH

InsideOutMusic recently became a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment, following their acquisition of The Century Family.

KANSAS Online:
www.kansasband.com
www.facebook.com/KansasBand
www.twitter.com/kansasband
www.kansasmerch.com

INSIDEOUTMUSIC online:
www.insideoutmusic.com
www.youtube.com/InsideOutMusicTV
www.facebook.com/InsideOutMusic

Visit the InsideOut Shop:
www.insideoutshop.de

This July marks the 30th Anniversary of bassist and vocalist Billy Greer joining the band KANSAS

Atlanta, GA – This July marks the 30th Anniversary of bassist and vocalist Billy Greer joining the band KANSAS. Along with countless live performances, Billy has appeared on the studio albums “Power,” “In The Spirit Of Things,” “Freaks Of Nature,” “Always Never The Same,” and “Somewhere To Elsewhere.” He’s also performed on the live releases “Live at the Whisky,” “King Biscuit Flower Hour,” “Device Voice Drum,” and “There’s Know Place Like Home.”Atlanta, GA – This July marks the 30th Anniversary of bassist and vocalist Billy Greer joining the band KANSAS. Along with countless live performances, Billy has appeared on the studio albums “Power,” “In The Spirit Of Things,” “Freaks Of Nature,” “Always Never The Same,” and “Somewhere To Elsewhere.” He’s also performed on the live releases “Live at the Whisky,” “King Biscuit Flower Hour,” “Device Voice Drum,” and “There’s Know Place Like Home.”

Reflecting on Billy, KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart states, “Billy….From the Power album in the mid 80’s, to all that KANSAS has going on today, you’ve been there for 30 years, through it all.Thank you for your loyalty, your dedication, and your talent. You are the best!”

“One of the most, if not THE most, important qualities in a bandmate from my perspective is loyalty.  For three decades and counting, Billy continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with us, celebrating the ups, as well as persevering through the downs.  Billy’s voice, talent, commitment, enthusiasm, and friendship are all constants, making it easy to continue to do what we all love to do.  Congratulations Billy, and thank you for 30 years!  Here’s to many more.” Adds KANSAS guitarist Richard Williams.

In honor of three decades of dedication and outstanding musicianship, the band and entire KANSAS organization would like to say, “Thank you, Billy, and congratulations! Onward to many more!”

KANSAS Signs with APA

“MIRACLES OUT OF NOWHERE” DOCUMENTARY PREMIERES ON VH1 CLASSIC & PALLADIA, DEBUTS IN BILLBOARD TOP 200

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 2, 2015) – KANSAS, one of the most iconic Rock ‘n’ Roll bands of all time will continue to forge their musical legacy by signing with APA for worldwide representation to bring their unique sound to fans around the globe.  Band members Phil Ehart, Billy Greer, David Manion, Ronnie Platt, David Ragsdale, and Richard Williams are looking forward to keeping their one-of-a-kind music on the road.

“KANSAS has been a part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll landscape for over four decades,” commented Steve Lassiter, SVP/Partner and Head of Concerts at APA Nashville.  “Their fans are extremely devoted, and we at APA are excited to continue to unite the band with their fans for more stops along their musical journey.”

Miracles Out Of Nowhere, a new, in-depth documentary chronicling the legendary band’s beginnings and rise to fame, premiered in February at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, and made its television premiere on both VH1 Classic and Palladia on March 20.  The film and companion CD was released on March 23 and debuted at #37 on Billboard’s Album Sales chart and at #61 on the Billboard Top 200.

KANSAS’s first public statement appeared on their self-titled album in 1974. “From the beginning, we considered ourselves and our music different and we hope we will always remain so.” Little did this legendary rock group realize that back in the early ‘70’s, what seemed to be “different,” was actually ahead of its time.

This “garage band” from Topeka released their debut album in 1974 after being discovered by Wally Gold, who worked for Don Kirshner.

With over 30 million records sold, the band has produced eight gold albums, three sextuple-Platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show), and a million-selling gold single, ‘Dust in the Wind.’ KANSAS appeared on the Billboard charts for over 200 weeks throughout the ‘70’s and ‘80’s and played to sold-out arenas and stadiums throughout North America, Europe and Japan. ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ was the #2 most played track on classic rock radio in 1995 and went to #1 in 1997.

Along with touring, KANSAS continues to remain a fixture of Classic Rock radio and has reached a whole new audience through their unmistakable presence on the popular video games Rock Band and Guitar Hero, and through their songs inclusion in various television shows such as ‘Supernatural,’ and ‘South Park,’ and with films ‘Old School,’ and ‘Anchorman.’

Upcoming Announced Tour Dates as of 4/1/15

April 10 Middletown, NY – The Paramount Theatre of Middletown

April 11 Wilkes-Barre, PA – Mohegan Sun Pocono

April 12 New York, NY – NY Ethical Cultural Center

April 25 Southaven, MS – Southaven Spring Fest at BankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove

April 30 Tuscaloosa, AL – Tuscaloosa Amphitheater

May 1 Orange Beach, AL – The Amphitheater at The Wharf

May 2 Huntsville, AL – Whistle Stop Weekend

May 8 Northfield, OH – Hard Rock Rocksino

May 9 Newark, OH – The Midland Theatre

May 14 Wichita, KS – The Orpheum Theatre

May 15 Tulsa, OK – River Spirit Casino Event Center

May 16 Richardson, TX – Wildflower Arts & Music Festival

May 28 Reading, PA – Santander Performing Arts Center

May 29 Springfield, MA – MassMutual Center

May 30 Indiana, PA – Kovalchick Complex

June 12 Rock Hill, SC – Old Town Amphitheater

June 13 Atlanta, GA – Verizon Wireless Amphitheater at Encore Park

June 26 Warsaw, IN – Classic Rock Concert at Glover Pavilion

June 27 Baraboo, WI – Ho Chunk Casino Wisconsin Dells

July 1 San Rafael, CA – Marin County Fair

July 2 Pleasanton, CA – Alameda County Fair

July 3 Del Mar, CA – San Diego County Fair

July 5 Milwaukee, WI – Summerfest

July 7 Elk Grove, IL – Village Green

July 11 Atlantic City, NJ – Tropicana Showroom

July 18 Cincinnati, OH – Festival in Sycamore

July 25 Whitehouse Station, NJ – Quick Chek Festival of Ballooning

July 26 Ridgefield, CT – Ridgefield Playhouse

August 6 Layton, UT – Kenley Centennial Amphitheater

August 7 Ridgefield, WA – Clark County Fair

August 8 Roseburg, OR – Douglas County Fair

August 14 Detroit, MI – GM Renaissance Center – Rockin’ On The Riverfront

August 29 Branson, MO – The Oak Ridge Boys Theatre

October 9 Tarrytown, NY – Tarrytown Music Hall

October 10 Patchogue, NY – Patchogue Theatre

October 11 Stroudsburg, PA – The Sherman Theatre

October 15 Vineland, NJ – The Landis Theatre

October 16 Glenside, PA – Keswick Theatre

October 23 St. Charles, IL – The Arcada Theatre

KANSAS Remerges on the Billboard Top 200 Chart After 20 Years With Miracles Out Of Nowhere

KANSAS
Remerges on the Billboard Top 200
Chart After 20 Years
With
Miracles Out Of Nowhere

Debuts at #37 on Album Chart, #61 on Top 200

Film Reveals the Untold Story of the
Great American Progressive Rock Band
Watch The Miracles Out Of Nowhere
Trailer Here: http://smarturl.it/kansas_vid

“Miracles Out Of Nowhere” is the unlikely yet true story of a great band that came out of the Heartland, and made rock & roll history that’s so much more than dust in the wind.”

David Wild, Rolling Stone

“From miracles to masterpieces, this is the definitive story of Kansas!” 

 – Jeb Wright, ClassicRockRevisited.com

“As epic a story as much of the music KANSAS made, and frequently as wild and wonderful.”

– Jerry Ewing, Prog Magazine

“Miracles Out of Nowhere is a compelling documentary which chronicles Kansas’ rise from a local Midwestern band to one of the Seventies most iconic and influential super groups.”

-Joe Lalaina, Guitar World

“If you only watch one documentary in 2015, make it Miracles Out of Nowhere, directed by Charley Randazzo.. It shows you how they went from being a local band from Topeka, Kansas to rock and roll icons. And their journey is one hell of a story.”

– Suzanna Bowling, Times Square Chronicles

April 2nd, 2015 More than twenty-five years have passed since KANSAS has made an appearance on the Billboard charts. Today, Miracles Out Of Nowhere, the documentary (and companion audio CD) chronicling their incredible career has debuted in the Billboard Top 200! This incredible feat comes on the heels of the band’s 40-year anniversary of their debut album.

To commemorate the occasion, the classic KANSAS lineup reunited, for the first time in more than 30 years; at the place their incredible journey began, Topeka, Kansas! There, they relived the incredible untold story of one of the most successful American rock bands of their era. Returning to monumental career landmarks in their hometown, as well as sharing untold memories ranging from touring to songwriting and recording, the band shares how the smash hit “Dust in the Wind” was just a passing comment away from never being recorded!  Viewers will hear the band tell stories about recording in the studio next to John Lennon, a backstage fight with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, and how the words “free beer” changed their lives forever! Miracles Out of Nowhere presents KANSAS in a way they have never before been seen.

Miracles Out Of Nowhere had a televised premiere with VH1 Classic and Palladia on Friday, March 20th. The premiere was incredibly well received and boasted amazing numbers for both channels.

The documentary features interviews from legendary Queen guitarist and former tour mate Brian May, acclaimed producer Brendan O’Brien, Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, and more. Featured prominently is country icon Garth Brooks, who counts KANSAS, alongside The Beatles and the Eagles, as one of his greatest inspirations. These extraordinary new insights are coupled with rare and unseen footage, including live performances and candid, fan-shot footage of the band on the road. Miracles Out of Nowhere offers an unprecedented look at the incredible ascent of KANSAS, a story that will appeal to new fans and veteran enthusiasts alike.

The film is available for purchase at http://www.miraclesoutofnowhere.com/

###

About KANSAS

From the beginning, KANSAS was fascinating in its unconventional approach to rock stardom.  The sextet, composed of drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Dave Hope, keyboardist/guitarist Kerry Livgren, violinist/vocalist Robby Steinhardt, vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams were unlikely candidates for mainstream success in every way.  After an improbable pairing with rock impresario Don Kirshner, the man behind the Monkees who signed and financed KANSAS on his Kirshner label, their relentless drive to succeed eventually resulted in instantly recognizable iconic hits like “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.”

KANSAS has released eight gold albums, three 6x platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, The Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and the million-selling single “Dust in the Wind.” Albums and singles by KANSAS could be found on the Billboard charts for more than 200 weeks during the 1970s and 1980s. “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On My Wayward Son” can still be heard on today’s radio.

KANSAS Press Contact:

Dayna Ghiraldi-Travers | Big Picture Media
NYC | Los Angeles  
[email protected]

Natalie Schaffer | Big Picture Media
New York City | Los Angeles
250 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 200, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Office: 310.274.2946 | Cell: 661.233.6479
[email protected]

Miracles Out of Nowhere Documentary To Be Viewed At The 30th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival

Iconic Rock Band
KANSAS
To Premiere Documentary Celebrating 40 Years
Miracles Out Of Nowhere
February 2nd, 2015
At The 30th Annual Santa Barbara
International Film Festival

Film Reveals the Untold Story of the
Great American Progressive Rock Band

Watch The Miracles Out Of Nowhere
Trailer Here: http://smarturl.it/kansas_vid

January 9th, 2015 Miracles Out Of Nowhere, the documentary film on KANSAS and the band’s incredible career will see its worldwide premiere at the 30th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) on Monday, February 2nd. The festival holds a vast array of films representing 54 countries, 23 world premieres and 53 US premieres, tributes with the year’s top talent, panel discussions, and free community education and outreach. The festival begins Tuesday, January 27th and continues through Saturday, February 7th, 2015. Tickets and packages for the festival can be purchased here: http://bit.ly/1xKvImL

Miracles Out Of Nowhere producer and former manager, Budd Carr explains:

“It is an honor to have our KANSAS band documentary Miracles Out of Nowhere selected to premiere at the 2015 Santa Barbara International Film Festival. As a long time Santa Barbara resident it will be especially exciting for me celebrate the bands 40th Anniversary as part of the SBIFF’s 30th Anniversary year.”

Carr is recognized as one of the film industry’s top talents in the field of Film Music Supervision and best known for his work with Academy Award-winning director Oliver Stone. He began his professional career as a music agent representing acts including The Cream, James Taylor, Carole King, Crosby-Stills-Nash and Young, and Eric Clapton.

2014 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of KANSAS, the band’s debut album. To commemorate the occasion, the classic KANSAS lineup reunited, for the first time in more than 30 years; at the place their incredible journey began, Topeka, Kansas! There, they relived the incredible untold story of one of the most successful American rock bands of their era. Returning to monumental career landmarks in their hometown, as well as sharing untold memories ranging from touring to songwriting and recording, the band shares how the smash hit “Dust in the Wind” was just a passing comment away from never being recorded! Viewers will hear the band tell stories about recording in the studio next to John Lennon, a backstage fight with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, and how the words “free beer” changed their lives forever! Miracles Out of Nowhere presents KANSAS in a way they have never before been seen.

“It was a pleasure and an honor to be given the opportunity to tell the world the amazing story of the band KANSAS in our new film Miracles Out Of Nowhere,” states director Charley Randazzo. “It is an inspiring journey of friendship, musicianship and perseverance that will resonate with people of all walks of life. Their songs and music were and still are “rock classics”, and it’s nice to know this film will expose to the masses six of the nicest and most talented guys I have ever worked with.”

Randazzo has produced, directed and edited music videos, concerts and documentaries for such musical superstars such as Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, P Diddy, N’ Sync, Prince, The Backstreet Boys, Billy Ray Cyrus, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.

The documentary features interviews from legendary Queen guitarist and former tour mate Brian May, acclaimed producer Brendan O’Brien, Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, and more. Featured prominently is country icon Garth Brooks, who counts KANSAS, alongside The Beatles and the Eagles, as one of his greatest inspirations. These extraordinary new insights are coupled with rare and unseen footage, including live performances and candid, fan-shot footage of the band on the road. Miracles Out of Nowhere offers an unprecedented look at the incredible ascent of KANSAS, a story that will appeal to new fans and veteran enthusiasts alike.

Miracles Out Of Nowhere will be officially released in March 24th, 2015 and is available for pre-order at this link: http://smarturl.it/kansas_MOON_d2c. You can also pre-order Miracles Out Of Nowhere on Amazon here: http://smarturl.it/kansas_MOON_amzn.

###

About KANSAS:
From the beginning, KANSAS was fascinating in its unconventional approach to rock stardom. The sextet, composed of drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Dave Hope, keyboardist/guitarist Kerry Livgren, violinist/vocalist Robby Steinhardt, vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams were unlikely candidates for mainstream success in every way. After an improbable pairing with rock impresario Don Kirshner, the man behind the Monkees who signed and financed KANSAS on his Kirshner label, their relentless drive to succeed eventually resulted in instantly recognizable iconic hits like “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.”

KANSAS has released eight gold albums, three 6x platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, The Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and the million-selling single “Dust in the Wind.” Albums and singles by KANSAS could be found on the Billboard charts for more than 200 weeks during the 1970s and 1980s. “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On My Wayward Son” can still be heard on today’s radio.

About Santa Barbara International Film Festival:
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival, presented by UGG® Australia, is dedicated to discovering and showcasing the best in independent and international cinema. Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, SBIFF offers 200+ films, tributes and symposiums that range from American indie films to world cinema and everything in-between. With its commitment to cultural diversity and powerful storytelling, SBIFF transforms beautiful downtown Santa Barbara, CA into a rich destination for film lovers, which attract more than 85,000 attendees. SBIFF is committed to providing free children’s education and community outreach programs through its 10-10-10 Student Filmmaking and Screenwriting Competitions, Mike’s Field Trip to the Movies, AppleBox Family Films, 3rd Weekend and educational seminars. The Festival is set to run January 27 “ February 7, 2015. For more information, please visit www.sbiff.org.

 

KANSAS Press Contact:

Dayna Ghiraldi-Travers | Big Picture Media
NYC | Los Angeles
[email protected]

Natalie Schaffer | Big Picture Media
New York City | Los Angeles
250 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 200, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Office: 310.274.2946 | Cell: 661.233.6479
[email protected]

Miracles Out of Nowhere Documentary Announcement

Epic Records/Legacy Recordings Set To Release
KANSAS
Miracles Out of Nowhere
A New Full Length Documentary Revealing the Untold Story of the
Great American Progressive Rock Band

DVD/CD Package Coming March 2015

November 19, 2014 – Epic Records and Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment, will release KANSAS – Miracles Out of Nowhere, a DVD/CD package celebrating one of the most popular American bands of the 1970s. The package includes a new, full-length, documentary film and a companion audio disc of greatest hits, deep album cuts, and more, in March 2015.

Epic/Legacy will also release a deluxe limited edition CD/DVD set, available exclusively through KANSAS. This edition includes an additional DVD of bonus features and outtakes not included in the documentary and not available in stores, along with the 78-minute documentary DVD and specially crafted companion CD.� The unique CD, curated by longtime KANSAS producer Jeff Glixman and KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart, features hits and deep cuts alongside audio extracts from the film.

KANSAS – Miracles Out of Nowhere deluxe limited edition CD/DVD set is available now for pre-order. Please visit miracles.kansasband.com for more information. The standard version will be available for pre-order on Amazon on December 26th.

2014 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of KANSAS, the band’s debut album. To commemorate the occasion, the classic KANSAS lineup reunited, for the first time in more than 30 years; at the place their incredible journey began, Topeka, Kansas! There, they relived the incredible untold story of one of the most successful American rock bands of their era. Returning to monumental career landmarks in their hometown, as well as sharing untold memories ranging from touring to songwriting and recording, the band shares how the smash hit “Dust in the Wind” was just a passing comment away from never being recorded!� Viewers will hear the band tell stories about recording in the studio next to John Lennon, a backstage fight with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, and how the words “free beer” changed their lives forever! Miracles Out of Nowhere presents KANSAS in a way they have never before been seen.

View the KANSAS – Miracles Out of Nowhere trailer here:

Directed by Emmy-nominated Charley Randazzo, the documentary features interviews from legendary Queen guitarist and former tourmate Brian May, acclaimed producer Brendan O’Brien, Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, and more. Featured prominently is country icon Garth Brooks, who counts KANSAS, alongside The Beatles and the Eagles, as one of his greatest inspirations. These extraordinary new insights are coupled with rare and unseen footage, including live performances and candid, fan-shot footage of the band on the road. Miracles Out of Nowhere offers an unprecedented look at the incredible ascent of KANSAS, a story that will appeal to new fans and veteran enthusiasts alike.

From the beginning, KANSAS was fascinating in its unconventional approach to rock stardom.  The sextet, composed of drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Dave Hope, keyboardist/guitarist Kerry Livgren, violinist/vocalist Robby Steinhardt, vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams were unlikely candidates for mainstream success in every way.  After an improbable pairing with rock impresario Don Kirshner, the man behind the Monkees who signed and financed KANSAS on his Kirshner label, their relentless drive to succeed eventually resulted in instantly recognizable iconic hits like “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.”

KANSAS has released eight gold albums, three 6x platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, The Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and the million-selling single “Dust in the Wind.” Albums and singles by KANSAS could be found on the Billboard charts for more than 200 weeks during the 1970s and 1980s. “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On My Wayward Son” can still be heard on today’s radio.

For more information, please contact:

Dayna Ghiraldi-Travers | Big Picture Media
NYC | Los Angeles  
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles
250 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 200, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Office: 310.274.2946

NYC
1133 Broadway, Suite 812 | New York, NY 10010 
Office: 212-675-3103

Kansas Welcomes David Manion

KANSAS announces that David Manion will be handling the main keyboard parts for the band on stage along with new lead vocalist and keyboardist Ronnie Platt. Manion has also handled keyboard responsibilities for Billy Greer’s Seventh Key.

“To say how excited I am for the opportunity to be playing keyboards with KANSAS would be the understatement of my life. Composing, recording, and performing have not only always been my passion, it is what I am built for,” says Manion. “It truly is a dream come true. To be a part of a band with a 40 year history, with so many albums out, and one that has proven to have put so much of the “prog” in progressive music since virtually the beginning of the genre, is the greatest feeling I have had in quite some time. I love the music and fans can expect me to put everything I have into the performance.”

KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart states, “It’s going to be great having David up on stage. He’s a world class keyboard player and a long time member of the KANSAS family.”

“I’ve been working with David since the mid eighties,” adds KANSAS bassist and vocalist, Billy Greer. “For me, he has always been the ‘go to’ guy when any keyboard work was needed. As good as he is at designing and running a light show, I know David’s heart has always been in performing live onstage. I’m very excited for David to get this opportunity to show his real passion. David has done a phenomenal job on all the Seventh Key stuff and will bring the same integrity to the music of KANSAS!”

Manion’s first concert will be in Oklahoma City, OK on September 12.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]

Welcome Ronnie Platt to KANSAS

KANSAS would like to introduce lead vocalist and keyboardist, Ronnie Platt, as it’s newest member. Ronnie’s first show with the band will be September 12 in Oklahoma City, OK, where he will take over singing duties for departing vocalist Steve Walsh.

Ronnie, please meet the greatest fans in the world…..

“I want KANSAS fans to know, first and foremost, I’m one of them,” says Platt, a Chicago area native. “Heck, I’m a blue collar guy that rides a Harley and I’ve spent most of my adult life earning a living by driving a truck. I’m a long time fan of the music and have always looked up to Steve Walsh. My goal is not to replace Steve; no one can do that. It is my goal and responsibility to sustain the integrity that is KANSAS. This is a lifelong dream and I would like to thank Phil, Rich, Billy, and David for the opportunity. Yes, I’ve got the job, but now it’s time to earn it….and I take nothing for granted that has been given to me. My performance in KANSAS will be how I’ve always performed, with passion and enthusiasm. “

KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart states, “After considering other candidates, it became clear Ronnie was our guy. He’s a perfect fit musically and personally with the band. His passion for the band and the music, as well as his musicianship, is exceptional.”

KANSAS guitarist Richard Williams adds, “Once we get back from Europe, we’ve got a lot of work to do to be ready for our fans in September. People can expect us to shake things up musically and dust off some songs we haven’t played in quite a while. Who knows? With Ronnie now on board, there may even be new music in our future!”

Ronnie, welcome to KANSAS!

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]

Steve Walsh Resigning from KANSAS

On June 30, 2014, Steve Walsh informed the members of KANSAS that he is resigning from the band. His last performance with KANSAS will be August 16, 2014, in Sioux City, Iowa, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. 

As KANSAS continues on, the band wishes Steve only the best in his future endeavors, and thanks him for the 41 years.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]