Kansas is a popular rock band known for its powerful vocals and complex musical style. They gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind.”
The band’s singing career includes multiple successful albums and Grammy nominations. Kansas is celebrated for its strong vocal harmonies and dynamic lead singers. Their music continues to inspire rock fans worldwide, making them one of the legendary names in classic rock.
About the Song
Carry On Wayward Son is a classic rock song known for its strong guitar riffs and powerful vocals. It became one of the band’s most famous hits and is often played on rock radio. The song features a memorable melody and changes in music. It was a popular single that helped the band gain wider recognition.
The track is still loved by fans today and is a staple in rock music collections. It showcases the band’s skill and energy in their performance.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | November 19, 1976 |
| Album | The Kansas Boxed Set |
| Writers | Kerry Livgren |
| Producers | Kansas and Jeff Glixman |
Meaning of The Song
“Carry On Wayward Son” captures the feeling of struggle and the desire for redemption. The song tells the story of a person who has faced many challenges and mistakes but refuses to give up.
The “Wayward Son” is a metaphor for someone who has wandered off the right path but is ready to find their way back.
The lyrics motivate perseverance, self-awareness, and hope for a better future. It speaks to the inner conflict between doubt and determination, reminding listeners that growth comes from facing difficulties head-on.
This timeless classic inspires strength and courage, making it a powerful anthem for anyone going through life’s hardships and searching for personal peace.
Lyrics of Carry On My Wayward Son
Intro
Carry on, my wayward son
There’ll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
Don’t you cry no more
Instrumental Break
Verse 1
Once I rose above the noise and confusion
Just to get a glimpse beyond this illusion
I was soaring ever higher, but I flew too high
Though my eyes could see, I still was a blind man
Though my mind could think, I still was a madman
I hear the voices when I’m dreaming
I can hear them say
Chorus
Carry on, my wayward son
There’ll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
Don’t you cry no more
Verse 2
Masquerading as a man with a reason
My charade is the event of the season
And if I claim to be a wise man, well
It surely means that I don’t know
On a stormy sea of moving emotion
Tossed about, I’m like a ship on the ocean
I set a course for winds of fortune
But I hear the voices say
Chorus
Carry on, my wayward son
There’ll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
Don’t you cry no more (No)
Guitar Solo
Bridge
(Carry on) You will always remember
(Carry on) Nothing equals the splendor
Now your life’s no longer empty
Surely Heaven waits for you
Chorus
Carry on, my wayward son
There’ll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
(Don’t you cry) Don’t you cry no more
Outro
No more
Live Performances of The Song
1. Live Performance by Kansas (Canada Jam)
2. Live Performance by Kansas (Clearwater, FL)
Similar Songs Like Carry On My Wayward Son
These songs share similarities with Carry On Wayward Son, either in emotional tone, progressive rock style, or melodic appeal:
- Dust in the Wind: It is a soft, acoustic song about life’s fragility. And also, it has the same heartfelt tone and memorable melody as Carry On Wayward Son.
- Point of Know Return: This energetic track features powerful guitar riffs and strong vocals, matching the intensity and progressive rock style of Carry On Wayward Son.
- Song for America: This track is a longer piece that blends complex arrangements and meaningful lyrics, showcasing Kansas’s signature progressive rock sound.
- The Wall: It features driving rhythms and layered harmonies, similar to the musical depth found in Carry On Wayward Son.
Similar Bands Like Kansas
Here are some bands and artists similar to Kansas, known for their classic and progressive rock styles, that you might love to browse through:
- Boston
Genres: Classic Rock, Hard Rock
Top Albums: Boston (1976), Don’t Look Back (1978), Third Stage (1986) - Styx
Genres: Progressive Rock, Arena Rock
Top Albums: The Grand Illusion (1977), Pieces of Eight (1978), Paradise Theatre (1981) - Rush
Genres: Progressive Rock, Hard Rock
Top Albums: Moving Pictures (1981), 2112 (1976), Permanent Waves (1980) - Yes
Genres: Progressive Rock, Art Rock
Top Albums: Fragile (1971), Close to the Edge (1972), Tales from Topographic Oceans (1973) - Foreigner
Genres: Rock, Hard Rock, Arena Rock
Top Albums: Foreigner (1977), Double Vision (1978), 4 (1981)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Repeated Phrases in The Lyrics?
Yes, the phrase Carry on, my wayward son is repeated to emphasize persistence and encouragement.
How do the Lyrics Depict the Band’s Musical Style?
The thoughtful and poetic lyrics match Kansas’s blend of rock with meaningful storytelling.
What Inspired the Lyrics of Carry On My Wayward Son?
The lyrics were inspired by the struggles of finding one’s path and the search for meaning and purpose in life.
