Kansas drummer Phil Ehart is recovering from a heart attack, a recent announcement states. As a result of the heart attack, he is taking a break from touring. In a new statement made on Kansas’ social media accounts, the news of Ehart’s heart attack and his replacement has been announced. The announcement read:
“Kansas original drummer and band manager, Phil Ehart, is taking time away from touring as drummer for Kansas while he recovers after recently surviving a major heart attack. There is no timetable for his return to the road. While not on the road, Phil is remaining in a prominent role with Kansas during his recovery, serving as band manager, as he has done for 40 years.”
Following in the statement, the band revealed Ehart’s replacement:
“Eric Holmquist will be on drums for Kansas starting with the March 1, 2024, concert in Richmond, VA. Holmquist has filled in for Ehart on drums when Phil was ill in 2016, during Phil’s arm rehabilitation in 2022-2023, and has been performing the first half of shows during the Kansas 50th Anniversary Tour. Previously, Eric was Phil’s drum tech and protégé for more than 20 years.”
Ehart has served as Kansas’ drummer for over 50 years, making him one of the longest-standing members along with guitarist Rich Williams, who is the only other remaining classic member of the band. Ehart played the drums on all of their major hits, including ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ and ‘Dust in the Wind.’
Other Kansas Replacements
Kansas has changed numerous members, including the more recent years of the band’s career. In April 2021, Kansas declared that Zak Rizvi had stepped down from the band, expressing his anticipation of embarking on new projects; and by May 2023, Stratospheerius frontman Joe Deninzon took over the position previously held by Dave Ragsdale.
You can see the statement below.
KANSAS original drummer and band manager, Phil Ehart, is taking time away from touring as drummer for KANSAS while he recovers after recently surviving a major heart attack. There is no timetable for his return to the road. 1/ pic.twitter.com/851mOtnJ9p
— KANSAS (@KansasBand) February 23, 2024
