Who's behind the notes? Discover Kansas: Pioneers of American Progressive Rock
"Carry On Wayward Son" is a classic rock song by the American band Kansas. While it may not be directly related to the state of Kansas, here are some interesting facts about both the band and the state:
Kansas (the state):
Geographic Center of the U.S.: Kansas is often considered the geographic center of the contiguous United States. In fact, there's a marker in the state that designates this point. It's located in Smith County.
Tornado Alley: Kansas is part of Tornado Alley, a region in the central United States known for its frequent and severe tornadoes. The city of Wichita, in particular, has a reputation for being in the heart of Tornado Alley.
The Sunflower State: Kansas is known as "The Sunflower State" due to the wild sunflowers that are abundant throughout the state during the late summer and early fall.
Home of Amelia Earhart: The famous aviator Amelia Earhart was born in Atchison, Kansas, in 1897. She made history as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
Dodge City: Kansas was a hub for cattle drives in the late 1800s, and Dodge City was one of the most famous cow towns in the Old West. It's often associated with the legendary lawman Wyatt Earp.
Kansas (the band):
Formation: Kansas, the band, was formed in Topeka, Kansas, in 1970. The band's name was inspired by their home state.
"Carry On Wayward Son": The song "Carry On Wayward Son" was released in 1976 and became one of the band's biggest hits. It's known for its iconic guitar riffs and is still popular today.
Progressive Rock: Kansas is often classified as a progressive rock band due to their complex compositions and blend of rock and classical music elements. They are known for their skilled musicianship.
Leftoverture: The album "Leftoverture," which features "Carry On Wayward Son," is one of Kansas's most successful records. It went quadruple platinum and is considered a classic of the progressive rock genre.
Violin in Rock Music: One unique aspect of Kansas's sound is the prominent use of the violin, played by Robby Steinhardt in the early years and later by David Ragsdale. This added a distinct texture to their music not often found in rock bands.
So, while "Carry On Wayward Son" may not be directly about the state of Kansas, it's a significant part of the band's legacy, and these facts give you a glimpse into both the song and the state's history and culture.