Iconic Rock Band
KANSAS
To Premiere Documentary Celebrating 40 Years
Miracles Out Of Nowhere
February 2nd, 2015
At The 30th Annual Santa Barbara
International Film Festival

Film Reveals the Untold Story of the
Great American Progressive Rock Band

Watch The Miracles Out Of Nowhere
Trailer Here: http://smarturl.it/kansas_vid

January 9th, 2015 Miracles Out Of Nowhere, the documentary film on KANSAS and the band’s incredible career will see its worldwide premiere at the 30th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) on Monday, February 2nd. The festival holds a vast array of films representing 54 countries, 23 world premieres and 53 US premieres, tributes with the year’s top talent, panel discussions, and free community education and outreach. The festival begins Tuesday, January 27th and continues through Saturday, February 7th, 2015. Tickets and packages for the festival can be purchased here: http://bit.ly/1xKvImL

Miracles Out Of Nowhere producer and former manager, Budd Carr explains:

“It is an honor to have our KANSAS band documentary Miracles Out of Nowhere selected to premiere at the 2015 Santa Barbara International Film Festival. As a long time Santa Barbara resident it will be especially exciting for me celebrate the bands 40th Anniversary as part of the SBIFF’s 30th Anniversary year.”

Carr is recognized as one of the film industry’s top talents in the field of Film Music Supervision and best known for his work with Academy Award-winning director Oliver Stone. He began his professional career as a music agent representing acts including The Cream, James Taylor, Carole King, Crosby-Stills-Nash and Young, and Eric Clapton.

2014 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of KANSAS, the band’s debut album. To commemorate the occasion, the classic KANSAS lineup reunited, for the first time in more than 30 years; at the place their incredible journey began, Topeka, Kansas! There, they relived the incredible untold story of one of the most successful American rock bands of their era. Returning to monumental career landmarks in their hometown, as well as sharing untold memories ranging from touring to songwriting and recording, the band shares how the smash hit “Dust in the Wind” was just a passing comment away from never being recorded! Viewers will hear the band tell stories about recording in the studio next to John Lennon, a backstage fight with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, and how the words “free beer” changed their lives forever! Miracles Out of Nowhere presents KANSAS in a way they have never before been seen.

“It was a pleasure and an honor to be given the opportunity to tell the world the amazing story of the band KANSAS in our new film Miracles Out Of Nowhere,” states director Charley Randazzo. “It is an inspiring journey of friendship, musicianship and perseverance that will resonate with people of all walks of life. Their songs and music were and still are “rock classics”, and it’s nice to know this film will expose to the masses six of the nicest and most talented guys I have ever worked with.”

Randazzo has produced, directed and edited music videos, concerts and documentaries for such musical superstars such as Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, P Diddy, N’ Sync, Prince, The Backstreet Boys, Billy Ray Cyrus, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.

The documentary features interviews from legendary Queen guitarist and former tour mate Brian May, acclaimed producer Brendan O’Brien, Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, and more. Featured prominently is country icon Garth Brooks, who counts KANSAS, alongside The Beatles and the Eagles, as one of his greatest inspirations. These extraordinary new insights are coupled with rare and unseen footage, including live performances and candid, fan-shot footage of the band on the road. Miracles Out of Nowhere offers an unprecedented look at the incredible ascent of KANSAS, a story that will appeal to new fans and veteran enthusiasts alike.

Miracles Out Of Nowhere will be officially released in March 24th, 2015 and is available for pre-order at this link: http://smarturl.it/kansas_MOON_d2c. You can also pre-order Miracles Out Of Nowhere on Amazon here: http://smarturl.it/kansas_MOON_amzn.

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About KANSAS:
From the beginning, KANSAS was fascinating in its unconventional approach to rock stardom. The sextet, composed of drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Dave Hope, keyboardist/guitarist Kerry Livgren, violinist/vocalist Robby Steinhardt, vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams were unlikely candidates for mainstream success in every way. After an improbable pairing with rock impresario Don Kirshner, the man behind the Monkees who signed and financed KANSAS on his Kirshner label, their relentless drive to succeed eventually resulted in instantly recognizable iconic hits like “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.”

KANSAS has released eight gold albums, three 6x platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, The Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and the million-selling single “Dust in the Wind.” Albums and singles by KANSAS could be found on the Billboard charts for more than 200 weeks during the 1970s and 1980s. “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On My Wayward Son” can still be heard on today’s radio.

About Santa Barbara International Film Festival:
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival, presented by UGG® Australia, is dedicated to discovering and showcasing the best in independent and international cinema. Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, SBIFF offers 200+ films, tributes and symposiums that range from American indie films to world cinema and everything in-between. With its commitment to cultural diversity and powerful storytelling, SBIFF transforms beautiful downtown Santa Barbara, CA into a rich destination for film lovers, which attract more than 85,000 attendees. SBIFF is committed to providing free children’s education and community outreach programs through its 10-10-10 Student Filmmaking and Screenwriting Competitions, Mike’s Field Trip to the Movies, AppleBox Family Films, 3rd Weekend and educational seminars. The Festival is set to run January 27 “ February 7, 2015. For more information, please visit www.sbiff.org.

 

KANSAS Press Contact:

Dayna Ghiraldi-Travers | Big Picture Media
NYC | Los Angeles
[email protected]

Natalie Schaffer | Big Picture Media
New York City | Los Angeles
250 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 200, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Office: 310.274.2946 | Cell: 661.233.6479
[email protected]

Epic Records/Legacy Recordings Set To Release
KANSAS
Miracles Out of Nowhere
A New Full Length Documentary Revealing the Untold Story of the
Great American Progressive Rock Band

DVD/CD Package Coming March 2015

November 19, 2014 – Epic Records and Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment, will release KANSAS – Miracles Out of Nowhere, a DVD/CD package celebrating one of the most popular American bands of the 1970s. The package includes a new, full-length, documentary film and a companion audio disc of greatest hits, deep album cuts, and more, in March 2015.

Epic/Legacy will also release a deluxe limited edition CD/DVD set, available exclusively through KANSAS. This edition includes an additional DVD of bonus features and outtakes not included in the documentary and not available in stores, along with the 78-minute documentary DVD and specially crafted companion CD.� The unique CD, curated by longtime KANSAS producer Jeff Glixman and KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart, features hits and deep cuts alongside audio extracts from the film.

KANSAS – Miracles Out of Nowhere deluxe limited edition CD/DVD set is available now for pre-order. Please visit miracles.kansasband.com for more information. The standard version will be available for pre-order on Amazon on December 26th.

2014 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of KANSAS, the band’s debut album. To commemorate the occasion, the classic KANSAS lineup reunited, for the first time in more than 30 years; at the place their incredible journey began, Topeka, Kansas! There, they relived the incredible untold story of one of the most successful American rock bands of their era. Returning to monumental career landmarks in their hometown, as well as sharing untold memories ranging from touring to songwriting and recording, the band shares how the smash hit “Dust in the Wind” was just a passing comment away from never being recorded!� Viewers will hear the band tell stories about recording in the studio next to John Lennon, a backstage fight with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, and how the words “free beer” changed their lives forever! Miracles Out of Nowhere presents KANSAS in a way they have never before been seen.

View the KANSAS – Miracles Out of Nowhere trailer here:

Directed by Emmy-nominated Charley Randazzo, the documentary features interviews from legendary Queen guitarist and former tourmate Brian May, acclaimed producer Brendan O’Brien, Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, and more. Featured prominently is country icon Garth Brooks, who counts KANSAS, alongside The Beatles and the Eagles, as one of his greatest inspirations. These extraordinary new insights are coupled with rare and unseen footage, including live performances and candid, fan-shot footage of the band on the road. Miracles Out of Nowhere offers an unprecedented look at the incredible ascent of KANSAS, a story that will appeal to new fans and veteran enthusiasts alike.

From the beginning, KANSAS was fascinating in its unconventional approach to rock stardom.  The sextet, composed of drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Dave Hope, keyboardist/guitarist Kerry Livgren, violinist/vocalist Robby Steinhardt, vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams were unlikely candidates for mainstream success in every way.  After an improbable pairing with rock impresario Don Kirshner, the man behind the Monkees who signed and financed KANSAS on his Kirshner label, their relentless drive to succeed eventually resulted in instantly recognizable iconic hits like “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.”

KANSAS has released eight gold albums, three 6x platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, The Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and the million-selling single “Dust in the Wind.” Albums and singles by KANSAS could be found on the Billboard charts for more than 200 weeks during the 1970s and 1980s. “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On My Wayward Son” can still be heard on today’s radio.

For more information, please contact:

Dayna Ghiraldi-Travers | Big Picture Media
NYC | Los Angeles  
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles
250 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 200, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Office: 310.274.2946

NYC
1133 Broadway, Suite 812 | New York, NY 10010 
Office: 212-675-3103

KANSAS announces that David Manion will be handling the main keyboard parts for the band on stage along with new lead vocalist and keyboardist Ronnie Platt. Manion has also handled keyboard responsibilities for Billy Greer’s Seventh Key.

“To say how excited I am for the opportunity to be playing keyboards with KANSAS would be the understatement of my life. Composing, recording, and performing have not only always been my passion, it is what I am built for,” says Manion. “It truly is a dream come true. To be a part of a band with a 40 year history, with so many albums out, and one that has proven to have put so much of the “prog” in progressive music since virtually the beginning of the genre, is the greatest feeling I have had in quite some time. I love the music and fans can expect me to put everything I have into the performance.”

KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart states, “It’s going to be great having David up on stage. He’s a world class keyboard player and a long time member of the KANSAS family.”

“I’ve been working with David since the mid eighties,” adds KANSAS bassist and vocalist, Billy Greer. “For me, he has always been the ‘go to’ guy when any keyboard work was needed. As good as he is at designing and running a light show, I know David’s heart has always been in performing live onstage. I’m very excited for David to get this opportunity to show his real passion. David has done a phenomenal job on all the Seventh Key stuff and will bring the same integrity to the music of KANSAS!”

Manion’s first concert will be in Oklahoma City, OK on September 12.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]

KANSAS would like to introduce lead vocalist and keyboardist, Ronnie Platt, as it’s newest member. Ronnie’s first show with the band will be September 12 in Oklahoma City, OK, where he will take over singing duties for departing vocalist Steve Walsh.

Ronnie, please meet the greatest fans in the world…..

“I want KANSAS fans to know, first and foremost, I’m one of them,” says Platt, a Chicago area native. “Heck, I’m a blue collar guy that rides a Harley and I’ve spent most of my adult life earning a living by driving a truck. I’m a long time fan of the music and have always looked up to Steve Walsh. My goal is not to replace Steve; no one can do that. It is my goal and responsibility to sustain the integrity that is KANSAS. This is a lifelong dream and I would like to thank Phil, Rich, Billy, and David for the opportunity. Yes, I’ve got the job, but now it’s time to earn it….and I take nothing for granted that has been given to me. My performance in KANSAS will be how I’ve always performed, with passion and enthusiasm. “

KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart states, “After considering other candidates, it became clear Ronnie was our guy. He’s a perfect fit musically and personally with the band. His passion for the band and the music, as well as his musicianship, is exceptional.”

KANSAS guitarist Richard Williams adds, “Once we get back from Europe, we’ve got a lot of work to do to be ready for our fans in September. People can expect us to shake things up musically and dust off some songs we haven’t played in quite a while. Who knows? With Ronnie now on board, there may even be new music in our future!”

Ronnie, welcome to KANSAS!

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]

On June 30, 2014, Steve Walsh informed the members of KANSAS that he is resigning from the band. His last performance with KANSAS will be August 16, 2014, in Sioux City, Iowa, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. 

As KANSAS continues on, the band wishes Steve only the best in his future endeavors, and thanks him for the 41 years.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]

STEEL CITY SELECTED TO HOST THE EVENT WITH SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCES BY RETIRED ORIGINAL MEMBERS DAVE HOPE, KERRY LIVGREN, AND ROBBY STEINHARDT.  TICKETS GO ON SALE STARTNG MARCH 8.

Celebrating 40 years as a band, legendary American Progressive Rock Band KANSAS is taking a break from their regular touring schedule to say “thank you” to their legions of loyal “Wheatheads” with a once-in-a-lifetime fan appreciation concert scheduled for August 17, 2013 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

When asked about the special evening, guitarist Richard Williams explains, “Our fans are the best in the world and have hung in there with us forever! We want to thank them with this very special event.”

To start the concert KANSAS will perform a set backed by a 35-piece symphony orchestra.  Following an intermission, KANSAS will then rock out a traditional band set of classics from their repertoire.  The night will be highlighted by special guest appearances throughout the concert by original members Dave Hope, Kerry Livgren, and Robby Steinhardt – marking the first time all original members of the band will be on the same stage together in more than 30 years.

Phil Ehart, KANSAS’s drummer further describes the event, “We do a symphony set, then we do a regular set. And in the meantime we have Dave, Kerry, and Robby playing on different songs with the current band through the whole show!!

And we’ve got some great stuff planned for the intermission, too! It’s gonna rock!”

The event will take place at the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts (formerly the Stanley Theatre) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This venue was selected because of the special meaning to the band due to their history of concerts and loyal fan base in the Steel City.

“People need to know that Pittsburgh, and the whole state of Pennsylvania, discovered the band KANSAS first! We came here in the early days and Pittsburgh was like our home away from home!” says Ehart. “Heck, we are even using Rich Engler to promote this show at what used to be the Stanley Theater.  Rich Engler and the incredible Stanley Theater….just like the old days! How cool is that?”

Tickets go on sale to the public on Friday, March 8, 2013 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. In addition to regularly priced tickets, which range from $65.25 to $80.25, a limited number of VIP and Premium ticket packages will be available for this once-in-a-lifetime event. VIP packages will include premier seating, merchandise, and a meet and greet photo opportunity with all original and current members of KANSAS.   Links to purchase ticket packages or tickets online can be found at KansasBand.com.   Fans can also purchase tickets by calling 412-456-4800, or in person at the Theater Square Box Office located at 655 Penn Ave in Pittsburgh.  VIP and Premium ticket packages are only available at KansasBand.com.

The band KANSAS was formed in 1973 in Topeka, Kansas, by drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Dave Hope, guitarist/keyboardist Kerry Livgren, violinist/vocalist Robby Steinhardt, vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams; and is currently comprised of drummer Phil Ehart, bassist Billy Greer, violinist David Ragsdale, singer/keyboardist Steve Walsh, and guitarist Richard Williams.

Along with touring, KANSAS continues to remain a fixture of Classic Rock radio and has reached a whole new audience through their unmistakable presence on the popular video games Rock Band and Guitar Hero, and through their songs inclusion in various television shows such as ‘Supernatural,’ and ‘South Park,’ and with films ‘Old School,’ and ‘Anchorman.’

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

Official Website: www.kansasband.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

Media – To schedule an interview, please contact:

J.R. Rees/KANSAS Management Office

[email protected]

On November 10, 2012, KANSAS will be playing with Chicago as part of the American Freedom Festival at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia.  The event will raise money for various organizations that serve and support veterans, active duty military, wounded warriors, and their families throughout the country.

Due to a prior family commitment, the marriage of his stepson, bassist Billy Greer will be unable to appear with the band that night.  When faced with this dilemma, the band asked a familiar face for a favor, and, on this night, original bassist Dave Hope will come out of musical retirement to fill in for Greer. Another KANSAS touring alumnus from the 80’s, Terry Brock, will cover Greer’s vocals for the evening.

“We are really going to miss Billy that night, believe me!  We really appreciate Dave and Terry stepping up and filling in for the night.  They sound great and rehearsals were really rocking,” commented KANSAS drummer, and original member, Phil Ehart.

When asked about filling in for Greer, Hope stated, “It’s a thrill to be filling in for the night.  After 28 years of not playing with the band, it feels like I’m stepping right back into high school.  It’s especially an honor because of the purpose of the concert; we really appreciate all that the members of the United States military do for us.”

Tickets are on sale now and available at www.Ticketmaster.com.  A very limited number of VIP packages, which include a meet and greet photo opportunity with the band KANSAS, are also available.

More information on the American Freedom Festival and American Freedom Foundation can be found at www.AmericanFreedomFoundation.org.

With their self-titled first album released in 1974, KANSAS went on to become one of the decade’s most popular rock acts – issuing classic rock albums such as 1976’s ‘Leftoverture’ and 1977’s ‘Point of Know Return,’ along with the hit singles “Carry on Wayward Son” and “Dust In the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.”  The band – which in addition to Ehart and Greer, is comprised of, singer/keyboardist Steve Walsh, violinist David Ragsdale, and guitarist Richard Williams – continue to tour in front of large and enthusiastic audiences and to this day remain a fixture on classic rock radio.

www.kansasband.com

www.facebook.com/kansasband

Twitter: @kansasband

For More Information Contact:

Jen Farhood/ChipsterPR

Email: [email protected]