Fight Fire With Fire

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as the Zoo Crew spins Kansas's fiery track "Fight Fire With Fire" from their 1983 album Drastic Measures! This song, written by brothers John and Dino Elefante, marked a bold shift for the band, diving headfirst into the AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) sound of the '80s. It peaked at No. 58 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the twelfth Kansas single to hit the Top 100. What makes this track stand out? Its music video, starring actor Dan Shor, was one of the first to be shot on 35-mm film and screened as a trailer in movie theaters across the U.S., alongside videos like Michael Jackson’s "Beat It." Directed by Dominic Orlando, it gave the song a cinematic edge, helping it blaze through the airwaves.

Digging deeper, "Fight Fire With Fire" was a high point on an album that stirred mixed feelings among fans. Drastic Measures was Kansas’s ninth studio album, but it came at a turbulent time. The band had lost violinist Robby Steinhardt before recording, and the absence of his signature violin sound left some longtime listeners feeling the album lacked the classic Kansas spark. Still, the song’s driving energy and catchy hooks made it a staple, even earning a spot in the band’s live sets years later. Fans on platforms like MusicMeter have noted its hard-hitting opener status, with one user calling it a “reasonable American hit” that “knalls lekker stevig” (rocks hard). It’s been re-released on compilations like The Best of Kansas and live albums such as Device, Voice, Drum, proving its enduring appeal.

Now, let’s rewind to how Kansas got their start. Formed in Topeka, Kansas, in 1973, the band emerged from a fusion of two local groups: The Reasons Why and White Clover. Founding members like Phil Ehart (drums), Dave Hope (bass), and Kerry Livgren (guitar/keyboards) brought a mix of progressive rock, boogie, and heartland grit. Their big break came after Don Kirshner signed them to his label, impressed by their demo tape. Their 1974 self-titled debut album introduced their intricate sound, blending violin, organ, and soaring vocals. Hits like "Carry On Wayward Son" from 1976’s Leftoverture catapulted them to stardom, cementing their place as progressive rock pioneers with a distinctly American flair.

Kansas’s journey wasn’t without challenges. By the time Drastic Measures rolled around, the band had seen lineup changes, including the departure of original vocalist Steve Walsh and the arrival of John Elefante. Despite these shifts, Kansas has kept rocking, with over 15.5 million records sold, as noted in a 2025 X post by user @pccote66. Their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots has kept fans coming back for decades. You can catch up with the band on their official website, where they share tour dates and news. They’re also active on Facebook (1.5M likes), Instagram, and X, posting about gigs and milestones.

For Zoo Freaks who want to connect with fellow fans, check out the Kansas Band Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant community sharing memories and updates. Fan-run sites like ProgArchives offer deep dives into the band’s discography, with reviews of albums like Drastic Measures. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Kansas fire, “Fight Fire With Fire” is a testament to the band’s willingness to take risks and keep the flames of rock alive. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let’s keep the freak flag flying!