by contributor Erica Adams
Photos & Video: Courtesy of American Freedom Foundation
Chicago and Kansas performed live at the American Freedom Foundation benefit concert presented by Skydex and CareerBuilder at The Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia.
Here’s half the story:
It was 1977 in Topeka, Kansas when an American radio hit was born!
“Dust in the Wind” was NOT exactly “dust in the wind” when it comes to the history of our American music legends. The song skyrocketed to the top of the charts in 1978 and drew in screaming fans! The band became instantly famous and the song – a legend.
The best and most surprising part is that the band truly had no idea that the song would become so popular and eventually “be a smash hit across all radio formats.”
Phil Ehart, Kansas’ dreamy drummer, told Hollywood on the Potomac that “the biggest impact this song has had on [him] is to watch thousands of people sing it during [their] concerts all over the world.”
But the story doesn’t end there. The band continued to write hit songs while touring the globe.
Now, on their 35th anniversary, “as part of the celebration for this one-of-a-kind tune” the band has released a limited edition gift book. The 32 page hardcover book has it all: lyrics, personal stories from fans, a foreword from Kerry Livgren… you name it, you bought it, you got it!
“My favorite part is the many letters and emails that were sent to us that expressed people’s feelings about the song itself. I also love the overall design of the book.” Phil Ehart
As if that were all!
Not only does the limited edition book give you the inside scoop on the band and it’s success, but a portion of the proceeds are donated to Autism Speaks “the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization.”
Autism Speaks was not an organization chosen at random. It is definitely one that hits the home of the band’s very own drummer.
“I have a son with Autism. Enough said!!” Phil Ehart
So get out there and get rocking. It doesn’t look like Kansas is stopping!
The annual concert honors our Veterans and men and women of America’s armed forces while benefiting various organizations that serve and support Veterans, active duty military, wounded warriors and their families throughout the country.
“Dust in the Wind”
