Kansas founder, violinist and vocalist
Robby Steinhardt has died following a brief illness, according to his family. He was 71 years old.
"Robert Eugene Steinhardt was well recognized as a founding member and original violinist and vocalist for the rock band Kansas," a statement reads. "His violin and vocals on 'Dust in the Wind,' 'Point of No Return' and 'Carry on Wayward Son' have etched Robby a solid place in rock history."
Steinhardt was a member of Kansas from its inception in 1973 until his first departure in 1982. He returned to the band in 1997 and stayed on until his retirement from touring in 2006.