Perfect Lover

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as they spin "Perfect Lover" by Kansas from the album The Best of Kansas. This track, released in 1984, holds a unique place in the band’s history as it was a new addition to their first compilation album. Written by then-lead vocalist John Elefante and his brother Dino Elefante, "Perfect Lover" marked one of the final recordings with John before the band temporarily disbanded. The song’s lyrics, which explore the idea of an idealized love that others dismiss as a fantasy, resonate with a dreamy yet defiant tone, capturing the emotional depth Kansas is known for. Fun fact: the song was produced by Kansas, engineered by Kevin Elson, and mixed by Neil Kernon at The Record Plant in Los Angeles, giving it that polished '80s rock sheen.

Digging deeper, "Perfect Lover" was initially exclusive to the 1984 release of The Best of Kansas, which sold over four million copies and earned quadruple platinum status. However, when the album was reissued in 1999, the track was controversially dropped to make room for classics like "The Pinnacle" and "Closet Chronicles," leaving "Perfect Lover" out of print in the U.S. until the 2014 vinyl reissue brought it back. Fans on platforms like Reddit have praised Kansas for their ability to blend introspective lyrics with intricate compositions, and "Perfect Lover" is no exception, showcasing John Elefante’s vocal prowess and the band’s signature progressive rock flair. The song’s absence from later releases only adds to its cult status among diehard Zoo Freaks.

Kansas began their journey in Topeka, Kansas, in 1973, emerging from the local music scene with a fusion of progressive rock and heartland grit. The band was formed by Phil Ehart (drums), Dave Hope (bass), Kerry Livgren (guitar/keyboards), Robby Steinhardt (violin/vocals), Steve Walsh (vocals/keyboards), and Rich Williams (guitar). Their early years were marked by relentless gigging across the Midwest, honing a sound that blended intricate instrumentation with soaring melodies. Their self-titled debut in 1974 caught the attention of Don Kirshner, who signed them to his label, setting the stage for their breakthrough. Albums like Leftoverture and Point of Know Return, featuring hits like "Carry On Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind," propelled them to international fame, with over 200 weeks on the Billboard charts and sold-out arena tours across North America, Europe, and Japan.

The band’s resilience through lineup changes, including John Elefante’s tenure from 1981 to 1984, kept their creative fire burning. Elefante, a young singer-songwriter from Long Beach, California, joined after auditioning as lead vocalist and keyboardist, bringing a fresh energy that culminated in tracks like "Perfect Lover." Kansas has since continued to evolve, with nine gold albums, three multi-platinum albums, and a legacy as classic rock staples. Their official website, kansasband.com, offers tour dates, merch, and band updates. Connect with them on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest news and behind-the-scenes content.

For Zoo Freaks looking to join the Kansas fan community, check out the Kansas Band Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant group where fans share memories, discuss albums, and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy. Another great spot is Kansas’ official fan club on their website, offering exclusive content and perks for dedicated supporters. Whether you’re spinning "Perfect Lover" or diving into their discography, Kansas remains a timeless force, and the Zoo Crew is proud to keep their music alive for all you freaks out there!