Robby Steinhardt is remembered for his work with "Kansas". His distinctive violin playing and powerful vocals were integral to the band's sound and success. Here are some facts about him:
(Photo: Michael Putland)
= Robert Eugene Steinhardt was born on May 25, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois.
= He was adopted by Ilse and Milton Steinhardt, who raised him in Lawrence, Kansas.
= His father, Milton, was the director of music history at the University of Kansas.
= Robby began studying classical violin at the age of eight.
= During family trips to Europe, he performed with orchestras, showcasing his early talent.
= Steinhardt attended Lawrence High School, where he served as concertmaster.
= In 1972, Steinhardt joined a re-formed band "White Clover", which soon adopted the name "Kansas".
= Steinhardt was the only member of Kansas who read music. = "Kansas" released their debut album in 1974, establishing a unique sound with Steinhardt's violin interplay with guitars and keyboards.
= Steinhardt's co-lead vocals provided a contrast to Steve Walsh's high tenor, often harmonizing with him.
= He was a key member during the band's most successful period, contributing to hit albums like "Leftoverture" (1976) and "Point of Know Return" (1977).
= He served as the band's MC (Master of ceremonies) during concerts, connecting with audiences and enhancing live performances.
= Steinhardt's violin playing was a key part of what made "Kansas" music unique. "Kansas" used the violin as a solo instrument in a manner that was new and different.
= Steinhardt left "Kansas" after the "Vinyl Confessions" tour in 1982 due to personal reasons.
= He formed his own band, "Steinhardt-Moon", and later joined the "Stormbringer Band" from 1990 to 1996, recording two CDs with them.
= He contributed to the "Jethro Tull" tribute album "To Cry You a Song: A Collection of Tull Tales".
= Steinhardt rejoined "Kansas" in 1997, participating in extensive touring and album projects.
= During this period, "Kansas" averaged almost 100 shows per year.
= He once again served as MC, with bandmate Kerry Livgren noting his unique role in live performances.
= In 2006, Steinhardt left "Kansas" by mutual agreement due to the demanding touring schedule.
= In 2018, Steinhardt was invited by producer Michael T. Franklin to perform on Jon Anderson's track "Activate" for the album "1000 Hands: Chapter One".
= In 2020, Steinhardt and Franklin began working on a solo project, aiming for an album and tour in 2021.
= The solo album, "Not In Kansas Anymore / A Prog Opera", was released posthumously on October 25, 2021.
= Robby Steinhardt passed away on July 17, 2021, at the age of 71, from complications of acute pancreatitis in a hospital in Tampa, Florida.
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