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Kansas Makes Scott Bernard an Official Member as Rich Williams Scales Back Touring

The veteran session player formalizes a role to sustain touring continuity given Rich Williams’ travel limits from macular degeneration.

Overview

  • Bernard had already filled in at multiple shows over the past year for founding guitarist Rich Williams.
  • Williams remains in the band, says he is not retiring, and describes Bernard as his hand-picked choice to help carry on the Kansas legacy.
  • A Nashville-based pro, Bernard spent 17 years with Kenny Loggins, including seven as musical director, and has worked with artists such as Michael McDonald and Joe Bonamassa.
  • Kansas recently wrapped a summer run with .38 Special and has dates scheduled throughout 2025 and into 2026.
  • Eric Holmquist continues on drums while co-founder Phil Ehart recovers from a major heart attack, and coverage notes vocalist Ronnie Platt’s cancer diagnosis.