There are some bands that become part of the soundtrack of our lives—woven into first loves, cross-country drives, and those late-night singalongs that feel like freedom itself. Kansas is one of those rare, enduring groups. With music that fuses virtuoso musicianship, poetic lyrics, and soaring harmonies, they’ve spent more than five decades crafting songs that resonate across generations.
As they prepare to bring their legendary sound to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota on January 16, 2026, we caught up with lead singer Ronnie Platt to talk about the band’s ongoing evolution, its powerhouse lineup, and what fans can expect when Kansas rolls into town.
A Legacy That Still Carries On
Few groups have aged as gracefully—or as passionately—as Kansas. From their groundbreaking hits “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Point of Know Return,” and “Dust in the Wind,” to their deeper, progressive cuts, Kansas has built a body of work that’s both technically brilliant and emotionally timeless.
“When we walk out on stage, there’s this instant connection,” Platt said. “You can feel generations of fans singing along, smiling, and remembering where those songs took them. That energy—there’s just nothing like it.”
Ronnie Platt joined Kansas in 2014, stepping into the role once filled by founding vocalist Steve Walsh. With a voice that honors the band’s signature sound while bringing his own warmth and power, Platt has reinvigorated the group’s live performances. “I grew up listening to Kansas,” he said. “It’s surreal to now be part of it. But what keeps us going is simple—the fans, the music, and that moment when the lights hit and everything just comes alive.”
The Sound That Defined Generations
Kansas has always been more than a rock band. Their songs are symphonic journeys, filled with intricate instrumentals, harmonies, and musical storytelling. Founding members Phil Ehart (drums) and Rich Williams (guitar) continue to anchor that signature Kansas sound. Together, they provide the rhythmic and emotional foundation that drives every show.
What keeps the music fresh is the balance between history and innovation. The band has evolved organically, welcoming world-class musicians who bring new layers of talent and creativity. “We have such an amazing lineup,” Platt said. “Everyone on that stage gives one hundred percent, every night.”
Tom Brislin: From Kenny Loggins to Kansas
One of the brightest sparks in the Kansas lineup is keyboardist, songwriter, and vocalist Tom Brislin, who joined the band in 2018. Brislin’s resume reads like a who’s who of modern rock and pop, including touring and recording with Kenny Loggins, Yes, and Meat Loaf. His mastery of piano and synth, combined with his lush vocals, adds a cinematic depth to Kansas’ live sound.
“Tom is an incredible musician,” said Platt. “He brings this rich, symphonic dimension that’s both powerful and emotional. Whether it’s recreating the classic parts or adding his own touch, he does it with total respect for the music.”
Brislin’s background with Kenny Loggins and other renowned artists taught him how to blend technical precision with heartfelt performance—a skill that fits perfectly within the Kansas tradition. His energy on stage and attention to musical detail have made him a fan favorite.
The New Faces Bringing Fresh Fire
In addition to Brislin, Kansas’ 2026 lineup features a few exciting new faces. Guitarist Scott Bernard, also a veteran of Kenny Loggins’ band, officially joins Kansas for the tour. His soulful style, tasteful solos, and smooth harmonies add both finesse and fire to the Kansas sound.
Also joining is Dan McGowan on bass and vocals, a rock-solid musician whose tone and stage presence complete the rhythm section. “Scott and Dan have brought this great synergy,” Platt noted. “It’s like they’ve been with us for years. That chemistry shows on stage—and the audiences feel it.”
Add in Joe Deninzon, often dubbed “the Jimi Hendrix of the violin,” and you’ve got a lineup that’s as technically brilliant as it is emotionally powerful. Deninzon’s violin solos electrify the crowd, bridging classical virtuosity with rock intensity—a Kansas trademark since the band’s earliest days.
Van Wezel: The Perfect Setting
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, with its iconic seashell architecture and breathtaking Sarasota Bay backdrop, provides the perfect setting for Kansas’ epic sound. The acoustics are superb, and the intimate layout allows fans to experience every nuance—the soaring harmonies, the intricate musicianship, the sheer joy that radiates from the stage.
Expect a setlist that delivers the hits and the hidden gems. From the first guitar note of “Carry On Wayward Son” to the gentle strum of “Dust in the Wind,” every song carries both nostalgia and renewal. “We always aim for a balance,” Platt said. “We play the classics everyone loves, but we also like to dig into songs that showcase the musicianship and depth of Kansas. Every night is a musical adventure.”
The Heartland Spirit
Part of Kansas’ enduring appeal lies in its roots. The band’s music embodies the sincerity and strength of America’s heartland. It’s poetic, reflective, and grounded in honesty. “That Midwestern spirit is a huge part of who we are,” Platt shared. “We may play all over the world, but that sense of connection, humility, and hard work stays with us.”
That authenticity resonates deeply with Family Beautiful readers—people who appreciate artistry, tradition, and emotional truth. Kansas is more than a classic rock band; they’re storytellers who happen to play their stories with guitars, violins, and keys.
Fifty Years and Forward
Kansas recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with the release of “Another Fork in the Road – 50 Years of Kansas,” a sweeping collection of remastered classics that remind fans just how much the band has contributed to rock’s rich tapestry. Yet despite the milestone, the band shows no signs of slowing down.
“Our goal isn’t to look back,” Platt said. “It’s to keep creating and performing at the highest level. We take a lot of pride in giving people a night they’ll never forget.”
That drive and dedication have made Kansas a model for how legacy acts can stay fresh while honoring their roots. Their shows are not exercises in nostalgia—they’re celebrations of craftsmanship, passion, and connection.
A Night to Remember
For anyone lucky enough to attend the January 16, 2026 concert at Van Wezel, expect a full-sensory experience: stunning lights, impeccable sound, and musicianship that transcends generations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Kansas for the first time, it’s a show that will leave you inspired, uplifted, and humming those unforgettable melodies long after the final bow.
As Platt put it best: “Every night, we get to look out at people smiling, singing, and sharing in this music. That’s what keeps us going. It’s a reminder that great songs never fade—they just keep finding new hearts to reach.”
So mark your calendar, gather your family, and get ready for an unforgettable evening as Kansas brings its legendary sound to Sarasota. Because some bands don’t just play concerts—they create memories that echo for a lifetime.
If You Go
Who: Kansas – “Another Fork in the Road” Tour
When: Friday, January 16, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
Tickets: Available at vanwezel.org and authorized outlets
