Kansas (band)

Kansas is a 1970s American rock and roll band, specializing in progressive rock with a distinctly American flavor. In spite of a harsh critical reception then and now, Kansas has remained a classic rock radio staple.

1980-1983

Kansas began to fall apart in the early 1980s. Hope and Livgren both became born-again Christians circa 1979-1980, reflected in the Christian-influenced lyrics in some of the songs on the Audio-Visions album. Walsh left in 1981 to form a new band, Streets. Walsh was replaced by vocalist John Elefante, also a born-again Christian and otherwise best known for producing albums by the band Petra along with his brother. Robby Steinhardt left after the ensuing tour. In spite of the major hit single "Play the Game Tonight" and two successful albums Vinyl Confessions (1982) and Drastic Measures (1983), the group split at the end of 1983 following a live performance on New Year's Eve. Kerry Livgren and Dave Hope left to form AD with former Bloodrock member Warren Ham, who had toured with Kansas in 1982 and Michael Gleason, who had toured with Kansas in 1983-84; Elefante has since become well-known as a contemporary Christian music musician and producer.

Related Topics:
1980s - Born-again Christian - Audio-Visions - 1981 - John Elefante - Petra - Vinyl Confessions - 1982 - Drastic Measures - 1983 - AD - Bloodrock - Contemporary Christian music

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