Rich Williams

Richard John Williams (born February 1, 1950) is the guitarist for the American rock band Kansas, and has been with them since their 1974 self-titled debut album.[1] Williams lost his right eye in a childhood fireworks accident. He wore a prosthetic eye for many years, but now wears an eye patch instead.[2][3] As a child Williams began playing on a ukulele, but quickly transitioned to guitar. His early influences included the Beatles and the overall British Invasion.[4]

Rich Williams
Rich Williams performing with Kansas in 2012
Background information
Birth nameRichard John Williams
Born (1950-02-01) February 1, 1950
Topeka, Kansas
GenresRock, progressive rock
Occupation(s)Musician
InstrumentsGuitar
Associated actsKansas

In the beginning with Kansas, Williams shared guitar duties with keyboardist/guitarist Kerry Livgren. In the late 1980s, he shared guitar-playing with Steve Morse. After various personnel changes in Kansas, Williams became the band's only dedicated guitarist until Zak Rizvi joined the band in 2016, although David Ragsdale would play some guitar parts when the band plays songs with little or no violin, such as "Portrait (He Knew)", "Fight Fire With Fire", and "Carry On Wayward Son". Williams and Phil Ehart are the only two founding members of Kansas who have never left the band, and have played on all Kansas albums.

Among the songs he co-wrote with the band are "Can I Tell You", "No Room for a Stranger", and the hit "Play the Game Tonight".

Discography
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References
  1. Discogs - Rich Williams discography
  2. DuBray, James (March 3, 2009). "Rich Williams speaks to Scene". The Observer. Retrieved August 9, 2020.
  3. Lalaina, Joe (April 20, 2015). "Dear Guitar Hero: Richard Williams Discusses Kansas' History, Versatility and Lasting Influence". Guitar World. Retrieved August 9, 2020.
  4. "An Interview with Richard Williams of Kansas, Appearing at Atlantic City's Hard Rock Hotel and Casino on May 31 and June 1". Medium. May 18, 2019. Retrieved August 9, 2020.


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