Nothing last forever but the earth and sky…

I've been looking for Kansas's tour dates, yes, they were still touring. Unfortunately, the full band is no longer.

Robby Steinhardt — Whose Group Kansas Notched Hits Like 'Dust In The Wind' — Has Died

TOPEKA, Kan. — Robert E. "Robby" Steinhardt, a violinist and vocalist with the progressive rock band Kansas, has died due to complications from pancreatitis. He was 71.

His wife, Cindy Steinhardt, said he died Saturday at a hospital in Tampa, Florida. She announced on Facebook Monday that he had just recorded his first solo album, and had been looking forward to being back on stage and going on tour.

Steinhardt, a native of Lawrence, Kansas, was an original member of the band, teaming up with Topeka West High School graduates Kerry Livgren, Rich Williams, Phil Ehart and Dave Hope and with Steve Walsh, who grew up in St. Joseph, Missouri. Steinhardt performed with Kansas from 1973 to 1982 and 1997 to 2006, the Topeka Capital-Journal reported.

The band sold more than 15 million records and notched up seven top 40 hits, including "Dust in the Wind" and "Carry on Wayward Son…"

The violin is an excruciatingly difficult instrument instrument to learn. I remember my nephew tried it during his high school years, and after one try, my sister told him to practice in the back yard, out of ear shot. 

And Steinhardt was a master of it. I remember listening to this song in my 12th year, and Dust in the Wind is a masterpiece. A haunting background with lyrics that make you contemplate life, and your time there.  

Hopefully Beth and I can see Kansas at some point. But it will be missing a big piece. RIP Robby Steinhardt, gone far too soon. A life well lived, you will be missed.

Here is the classic from Kansas, Dust in the Wind. Have a great weekend.