Rich Williams of Kansas on the New LP ‘Point of Know Return Live & Beyond’
The Signature Kansas Sound Explained
It is sad to report that Kansas founder and violinist Robby Steinhardt has passed away. Steinhardt was the original violinist and vocalist on “Dust in the Wind,” “Point of No Return” and “Carry on Wayward Son.” Steinhardt, who was working on a solo album, was 71. The following interview with guitarist Rich Williams was conducted May 14, 2021.
Classic rock bands have always experienced a revolving door of musicians. Kansas has seen its share of upheaval but guitarist Rich Williams and drummer Phil Ehart have been been with the band since its debut album and have never left. “We have a work ethic that we get from our parents and from where we grew up of just sticking to it,” says Williams. “Things get tough, you stick with it.”
After years of false starts, Kansas signed with producer Don Kirshner’s label and released Kansas in 1974. Its mix of progressive rock and symphonic arrangements with the work of violinist Robby Steinhardt produced the Kansas signature sound still popular today.
The band’s breakout LP was 1976’s Leftoverture, which featured the hit single “Carry On Wayward Son.” Point of Know Return followed in 1977. The success of the title track and “Dust in the Wind” secured…
