Kansas Bassist Billy Greer Announces Retirement After Nearly 40 Years
After nearly four decades with the legendary rock band Kansas, bassist and co-lead vocalist Billy Greer has announced his retirement. Greer’s tenure with the band spanned 39 years, making him the third-longest serving member in Kansas history.
A Message of Gratitude
In a heartfelt message announcing Greer’s departure, Kansas expressed their deepest gratitude for his dedication and service. Drummer Phil Ehart wrote, "For 39 years, Billy has been a loyal, dedicated, and immensely talented bandmate. He’s traveled around the world with us, including USO tours." Guitarist Richard Williams added, "Billy stood shoulder to shoulder with us through both the ups and the downs. His voice, both singing and emceeing, has been a constant with us on stage. The entire Kansas family will miss him."
Who Is Billy Greer?
Though he wasn’t an original member, Greer’s tenure with Kansas is a significant part of the band’s history. He joined in 1985, following a brief hiatus, and has since appeared on seven of the band’s studio albums. Greer has also taken on a prominent role in Kansas’ live shows, serving as emcee for the past 18 years.
A Long and Winding Road
In a 2023 interview with 100% Rock Magazine, Greer reflected on his time with Kansas, stating, "I consider myself lucky. There have been a couple of incarnations along the way, but we’ve managed to push through the rough times." He acknowledged the challenges the band faced in the 1990s, when grunge became the dominant genre. "We kept going. Those were some dark times. Playing small clubs from Tuesday through Thursday to get to the good gigs on the weekends," he recalled. "It was a rough go for a lot of years, but we slowly made our way back."
Final Performance and Future Plans
Greer’s final performance with Kansas took place on September 1 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. The band has not announced a replacement, but assured fans that Greer’s departure will not impact any Kansas performance scheduling. The group’s next show is scheduled for September 7 in Spencer, Iowa.
Phil Ehart Looks Back at 8 Key Kansas Albums
[Gallery]
Conclusion
Billy Greer’s retirement marks the end of an era for Kansas, but the band’s legacy and music will continue to inspire and entertain fans for generations to come. We wish Greer all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his incredible contributions to the band.
FAQs
Q: How long did Billy Greer serve with Kansas?
A: Billy Greer served with Kansas for nearly 40 years, spanning 39 years.
Q: What was Billy Greer’s role in Kansas?
A: Billy Greer was the bassist and co-lead vocalist for Kansas.
Q: What was Billy Greer’s most recent performance with Kansas?
A: Billy Greer’s final performance with Kansas took place on September 1 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
Q: Will Billy Greer’s departure impact Kansas’ performance schedule?
A: No, Kansas has assured fans that Greer’s departure will not impact any Kansas performance scheduling.
Q: What is Kansas’ next show?
A: Kansas’ next show is scheduled for September 7 in Spencer, Iowa.
