Watch Kansas: Miracles Out Of Nowhere

Kansas: Miracles Out Of Nowhere is a 2015 documentary film that tells the story of the legendary American rock band Kansas. The film, directed by Charley Randazzo, features interviews with the band members as well as key figures in their career, including music industry executives, journalists, and other musicians. The film begins with the birth of the band in Topeka, Kansas in the early 1970s. It was a time when rock music was dominated by acts like Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones, and Kansas was a group of musicians who dared to dream big, defying the expectations of their small Midwestern town.

The documentary delves into the collaborative creative process of the band, with interviews from each member, including Phil Ehart (drums), Richard Williams (guitar), Robby Steinhardt (violin), Steve Walsh (keyboards/vocals), Kerry Livgren (guitar/keyboards), Dave Hope (bass), and John Elefante (vocals/keyboards).

The interviews are interwoven with archival footage of the band's earliest performances, including their gigs in the bars and clubs of Kansas and their first record deal with Don Kirshner's record label.

The film also explores the band's transformation from a local act to a national phenomenon, with the release of their breakthrough album, "Leftoverture," which included the hit single "Carry On Wayward Son." The song became an instant classic, and the album went on to sell millions of copies.

Kansas: Miracles Out Of Nowhere explores the band's creative process, with interviews about how they infused their music with elements of classical, jazz, and progressive rock. The band talks about the influences that shaped their sound, from Bach to the Beatles, and how they experimented with layered harmonies and elaborate arrangements.

The documentary also touches on some of the controversies associated with the band, including their reputation as a "Christian rock" group, and Kerry Livgren's conversion to Christianity, which he documented in his solo album, "Seeds of Change."

Throughout the film, there are interviews with industry veterans who talk about the impact that Kansas had on the music world, including music critic Robert Christgau, former Epic records president Michael Bogdanoff, and music publisher and promoter Don Kirshner.

The film concludes with the band's triumphant return to Topeka, where they were inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame. The band members reflect on their journey and the lasting impact they've had on rock music.

Kansas: Miracles Out Of Nowhere is a moving tribute to a band that defied the odds and created music that has stood the test of time. It is a must-see for fans of classic rock and anyone interested in the history of American music.

Kansas: Miracles Out Of Nowhere is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.