The Spider / Portrait / Carry On Wayward Son (Live 1978)

The Zoo Crew is spinning a classic tonight with "The Spider / Portrait / Carry On Wayward Son (Live 1978)" by Kansas, taken from their live album Two for the Show. This medley, captured during their 1977-1978 tours, showcases the band's progressive rock prowess and electrifying stage presence. "Carry On Wayward Son," the standout track, was a last-minute addition to their 1976 album Leftoverture. Guitarist Kerry Livgren wrote it under pressure after lead singer Steve Walsh admitted to a songwriting drought. Livgren described the song as "beamed down" to him, an autobiographical piece about his spiritual journey, though he denied specific religious ties at the time, only converting to Christianity two years later. The song's inclusion was a gamble; drummer Phil Ehart recalled in 2004 that the band didn't expect a six-minute track to become a hit, yet it soared to No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1977, saving Kansas from being dropped by their label.

Another tidbit from the medley: "The Spider" is a brief instrumental, often overlooked but a fan favorite for its intricate guitar work, while "Portrait (He Knew)" reflects Kansas' knack for weaving philosophical themes into their music. The live version from Two for the Show is particularly cherished for its raw energy, with a fan edit on YouTube blending these tracks seamlessly, as one user noted in 2020, "joined as they should have been in the first place." The song's cultural impact is undeniable—it’s the unofficial theme of the TV series Supernatural, played in nearly every season finale’s "The Road So Far" montage. At San Diego Comic-Con 2017, Kansas performed it live for fans, a moment shared widely. On X, the band celebrated the song’s 46th anniversary in 2022, highlighting its enduring legacy.

Kansas formed in Topeka, Kansas, in 1973, emerging from a fusion of local bands, notably White Clover, which included Steve Walsh, Phil Ehart, and Rich Williams. Their early sound blended hard rock, southern rock, and progressive influences inspired by bands like Yes and Genesis. After relentless touring and sharpening their craft, White Clover merged with another group, adopting the name Kansas and signing with Don Kirshner’s label. Their self-titled debut in 1974 built a cult following, but it was Leftoverture in 1976, with "Carry On Wayward Son," that catapulted them to stardom. The band’s commitment to complex compositions and faithful live performances—documented in Two for the Show—earned them a reputation as a top live act, selling out venues like Madison Square Garden.

Today, Kansas remains active, celebrating their 50th anniversary with tours featuring hits and deep cuts, as noted in a 2024 Odessa Arts post. Fans can connect with the band on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online. The Kansas Band Fans Facebook group is a hub for sharing memories and rare recordings, while Kansas’ official fan club offers exclusive content. These platforms keep the spirit of Kansas alive, much like the Zoo Crew keeps the airwaves rocking.