Kansas wrapped up their 50th anniversary tour with a memorable show in Pittsburgh on Wednesday. The night was particularly special as drummer and manager Phil Ehart, who had been sidelined since February due to a heart attack, returned to the stage. He joined the band for three songs, including the iconic finale, "Carry on Wayward Son." Original bassist Dave Hope also made a guest appearance, playing the same three songs, much to the delight of the fans.
The concert had a few more surprises in store. Although co-founder and primary songwriter Kerry Livgren couldn't attend due to his wife Vicki's injury, his presence was felt through his daughter Kate, who played viola on "Dust in the Wind." The band's current violinist, Joe Deninzon, paid tribute to the late Robbie Steinhardt by performing his solo on Steinhardt's white violin, with Robbie's widow and daughter in attendance. It was a touching moment that added to the emotional depth of the evening.
Before the show, Ehart and original guitarist Richard Williams, who remains with the band, were honored with BMI certifications for the staggering number of radio plays of their hits—nine million for "Carry on Wayward Son" and seven million for "Dust in the Wind." The band looks forward to their next tour leg starting January 23rd in Coconut Creek, Florida.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]