Bummer, no Elefante.. The band was gonna go to him first but things didn't work out. From Elefante:
John Elefante wrote:
Friends, I was honored to see how many of you lobbied for me to fill the position of Kansas’ lead singer that Steve Walsh will soon vacate. I also really appreciate that the band thought of coming to me first on Wednesday (July 2nd) to discuss rejoining the band. We had a great and fruitful sit down together, but as with any big decision in my life, I find it most important for myself, my family and friends to turn to prayer. On Friday (July 4), God had swiftly answered these prayers but His response was not what I was expecting, which was a definitive closing of the door.
A lot of times, the fans are left in the dark in regards to what takes place behind the scenes – leaving room for speculations. So I felt the need to post this message to eliminate any speculations. The inner-workings of a band are sometimes very complicated, I respect and surely understand that. I am very much enjoying where my travels have taken me so far and truly love the freedom I have earned. And there is still so much that I have to offer the fans by way of my solo recordings, live performances, etc. I truly believe that Kansas will find a good fit and continue to be a great band. I would also like to add that Steve Walsh is one of the reasons I wanted to become a singer. His talent will be missed and I wish him well.
Sincerely,
John
From http://www.melodicrock.com
"KANSAS would like to introduce lead vocalist and keyboardist, Ronnie Platt, as it’s newest member. Ronnie’s first show with the band will be September 12 in Oklahoma City, OK, where he will take over singing duties for departing vocalist Steve Walsh.
Ronnie, please meet the greatest fans in the world…..
“I want KANSAS fans to know, first and foremost, I’m one of them,” says Platt, a Chicago area native. “Heck, I’m a blue collar guy that rides a Harley and I’ve spent most of my adult life earning a living by driving a truck. I’m a long time fan of the music and have always looked up to Steve Walsh. My goal is not to replace Steve; no one can do that. It is my goal and responsibility to sustain the integrity that is KANSAS. This is a lifelong dream and I would like to thank Phil, Rich, Billy, and David for the opportunity. Yes, I’ve got the job, but now it’s time to earn it….and I take nothing for granted that has been given to me. My performance in KANSAS will be how I’ve always performed, with passion and enthusiasm. “
KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart states, “After considering other candidates, it became clear Ronnie was our guy. He’s a perfect fit musically and personally with the band. His passion for the band and the music, as well as his musicianship, is exceptional.”
KANSAS guitarist Richard Williams adds, “Once we get back from Europe, we’ve got a lot of work to do to be ready for our fans in September. People can expect us to shake things up musically and dust off some songs we haven’t played in quite a while. Who knows? With Ronnie now on board, there may even be new music in our future!”
Ronnie, welcome to KANSAS!"
Subject: Steve Walsh quits Kansas 
Thu Jul 03, 2014 8:50 am
