For more than five decades, Kansas have carried the banner of American progressive rock, shaping the sound of the 1970s with timeless songs like “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On Wayward Son.” Their music, rooted in both technical brilliance and heartland storytelling, has made them one of rock’s most enduring acts. But for fans in Bonner Springs on Friday night, the band gave them something far more special than just another stop on the tour — they gave them history.
At the Azura Amphitheater in Kansas, the group staged an emotional reunion, bringing both current and former members together in a rare, powerful moment that bridged their past and present.
During the encore, Phil Ehart, Rich Williams, Kerry Livgren, and Dave Hope joined the touring lineup to perform “Hold On” and “Carry On Wayward Son,” songs that defined the band’s golden era.
Livgren and Hope, though long departed, have occasionally made guest appearances. Williams and Ehart, still official members, had stepped back in recent years due to health struggles. Ehart suffered a major heart attack in 2024, temporarily handing drumming duties to his tech Eric Holmquist. Williams, meanwhile, continues to battle macular degeneration, which he admitted makes travel “increasingly difficult.” To keep the band’s tours alive, Scott Bernard has stepped in when Williams is unable to travel.
The night’s set list blended hits and deep cuts, delivering a full retrospective of Kansas’ career:
- “Point of Know Return”
- “What’s on My Mind”
- “Play the Game Tonight”
- “Child of Innocence”
- “The Wall”
- “Song for America”
- “Dust in the Wind” (with Rich Williams)
- “Can I Tell You” (with Rich Williams)
- “Down the Road” (with Rich Williams)
- “Miracles Out of Nowhere” (with Rich Williams)
And for the encore, the moment everyone waited for:
- “Hold On”
-
“Carry On Wayward Son”
Kansas continues touring alongside 38 Special and Jefferson Starship, with upcoming shows leading to a final stop on January 30, 2026, in Meridian, Mississippi.
