Kansas, currently touring the country to mark its 50th anniversary as a band, announced that longtime bassist Billy Greer has left the group.
“After nearly 40 years, Billy Greer has concluded his journey as bassist and co-lead vocalist for the band Kansas,” the band said in a statement on social media. “The band Kansas and its entire organization extend heartfelt gratitude to Billy for his decades of exceptional musicianship.”
Greer was not the original bassist for Kansas, which rose to popularity in the 1970s, joining the band in 1985. He had the third-longest tenure with the band, behind only guitarist Richard Williams and drummer Phil Ehart. Ehart left the band’s live tour earlier this year after suffering a heart attack, but remains as the band’s manager.
Greer performed on seven of the band’s albums.
“He stood shoulder to shoulder with us through both the ups and the downs,” Williams said in a statement. “His voice, both singing and emceeing, has been a constant with us on stage. The entire Kansas family will miss him.”
Kansas announced Monday that Dan McGowan will replace Greer as bassist and co-lead vocalist. McGowan is the singer and guitarist for the progressive rock band The Tea Club.
“I am thrilled and honored to be joining Kansas,” McGowan said in a statement on social media. “I am also deeply aware of the gigantic shoes that I will be filling. Dave Hope and Billy Greer are among the best musicians in rock history. I want the fans to know that I love the music of Kansas and I hold it in highest reverence.”
