The Unsung Heroes

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "The Unsung Heroes" by Kansas from their 2016 album The Prelude Implicit, and the Zoo Freaks are vibing hard. This bluesy rocker, penned by Zak Rizvi and Ronnie Platt, stands out for its soulful nod to everyday heroes, with Platt’s vocals soaring over regal violin and guitar solos from David Ragsdale and Richard Williams. According to a review from The Progressive Aspect, the track’s laid-back, jazzy feel and powerful instrumental bursts give it a nostalgic yet fresh Kansas spirit, blending their mid-70s pomp with a modern edge. It’s a song that feels like a warm embrace, perfect for the Crew’s eclectic airwaves.

Digging into the song’s trivia, Prog Archives notes that "The Unsung Heroes" has a lounge-boogie vibe that some fans found less compelling compared to the album’s heavier hitters like "Refugee." However, others, like the reviewers at My Global Mind, praised its warm, Eagles-like soulfulness, calling it a track that invites listeners to sing along and feel part of the Kansas journey. In a 2016 interview with The Progressive Aspect, founding guitarist Richard Williams shared that the album, including this song, was a burst of pent-up creativity after a 16-year gap since their last studio release. The track’s lyrics, focused on gratitude for those who face daily struggles, resonate deeply, reflecting Kansas’s knack for weaving uplifting messages into their music.

Kansas got their start in Topeka, Kansas, in the early 1970s, born from a merger of two local bands, Saratoga and White Clover. Founding members like Phil Ehart (drums) and Richard Williams (guitar) were just garage band kids with big dreams, jamming in basements and playing local gigs. Their big break came with their 1974 self-titled debut under Kirshner Records, but it was 1976’s Leftoverture, with the iconic "Carry On Wayward Son," that catapulted them to fame. Their blend of progressive rock, heartland grit, and intricate arrangements—think soaring violins and Hammond organs—set them apart. By the late ’70s, they were selling out arenas, with hits like "Dust in the Wind" cementing their legacy. Despite lineup changes, including the departure of original vocalist Steve Walsh in 2014, Kansas has kept their signature sound alive, as heard in "The Unsung Heroes."

Stay connected with Kansas through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, throwback photos, and fan shoutouts. For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out fan communities like the Kansas Band Fans Facebook Group, a lively spot for sharing concert stories and debating the best violin solos. The band’s official site also links to merch and tour dates, keeping the Kansas spirit rocking for new and longtime fans alike.