Kerry Livgren
American rock musician and songwriter
Kerry Allen Livgren was born September 18, 1949 in Topeka, Kansas, where he also grew up. He is an American musician and songwriter, best known as one of the founding members, long time guitar player and primary songwriters for the 1970s progressive rock band Kansas (2), whose biggest hits were Kansas (2) - Carry On Wayward Son and Kansas (2) - Dust In The Wind. In 1980, the ever introspective, soul-searching believer Kerry Livgren became a born again Christian. In 1983, after inner turmoil and dissatisfaction within the band with the way Livgren's lyrics were going, he decided himself to leave Kansas after Kansas (2) - Drastic Measures to pursue a solo career.
In the mid-80's, he formed the Christian Contemporary Group AD (10), and after their breakup continued to record solo albums. In 2009, he appeared on Mastedon With John Elefante - 3, Mastedon's 3rd album, together with former Kansas singer John Elefante and his brother Dino Elefante. He also appears as a backing vocalist on many Christian artists' albums.
On September 1, 2009, Livgren had a stroke. His family established the Kansas band website as the only authorized source for information on Livgren's recovery. He made his first post-stroke appearance with Kansas on January 28, 2011, when he conducted the Kansas State University Symphony Orchestra for 'Dust in the Wind' during a special concert celebrating the 150th anniversary of the state of Kansas. Livgren was greeted with a prolonged standing ovation.
Though Livgren is known for his music, he is quick to point out that it is only one of his many pursuits. On his website, he quotes his biography: "I'm a family man, I have a role in my church, I'm running a record label, a studio, a production company, a farm, and I have more hobbies and interests than there are hours in the day."