Kansas singer and violinist Robby Steinhardt dies, aged 71

20 July 2021, 12:16

Robby had been working for an album due for release later this year.

Robby Steinhard, the former singer and violinist in Kansas, has died at the age of 71.

Robby's wife Cindy confirmed the sad news via Facebook, revealing that he had died following complications with acute pancreatitis.

"It is with an extremely heavy broken heart that I have to announce to the world, we have lost one of the most incredible people of our time…. Robby Steinhardt has passed away," she said.

Kansas - Dust in the Wind (Official Video)

"We are beyond devastated as our lives were about to start a new adventure.

"Robby just recorded his first solo album with the talented music producer Michael Franklin at Solar Studios.

"A tour to start in August, Robby was so looking forward to being back on stage doing what he loved."

Cindy added: "My only regret is that I can’t share them with him to show him how much he is loved. Hug your loved ones, be happy, stay safe and be well."

She confirmed that Robby was first admitted to hospital on May 13 in a serious condition with sepsis, but had initially "cheated death" and was due to return home two months later before the sepsis returned.

Kansas - Point of Know Return (Official Video)

A further family statement read: "Robert Eugene Steinhardt was well recognized as a founding member and original violinist and vocalist for the rock band Kansas.

"His violin and vocals on 'Dust in The Wind', 'Point Of No Return' and 'Carry On Wayward Son', have etched Robby a solid place in rock history."

It continued: "He will be deeply missed by all he knew and his music will last forever. A memorial will be announced in the future."

A post on the official Kansas Facebook page also paid tribute to Steinhardt.

"The members of the band KANSAS, past and present, wish to express our deepest sorrow over the death of our bandmate and friend, Robby Steinhardt," it read.

Kansas - Carry on Wayward Son (Official Video)

"Robby will always be in our souls, in our minds, and in our music. What he brought to us as bandmates, to the fans who attended our concerts, and to the sound of KANSAS, will always be heartfelt.

"We love him and will miss him always"

Steinhardt joined the band White Clover in 1972, with the group changing their name to Kansas soon after.

He quit the group in 1982 for personal reasons, but rejoined in 1997 and stayed with the group for nearly a decade, leaving for a second time in 2006 because of the band's pace of touring.