Ronnie Platt, the 64-year-old frontman of Kansas, has disclosed that he is battling thyroid cancer. He announced the diagnosis in a Facebook post on February 15. “For all of you asking, Tuesday I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer but before everyone gets all excited, it has a 99% survival rate, it has not spread. It’s contained to my thyroid. I just have to have my thyroid removed. Go through some rehab time and be right back in the saddle.

“I sincerely appreciate everyone’s positive thoughts and prayers.  I have some absolutely amazing people going to bat for me!! as it has been put to me, this is just a bump in the road and will be behind me very soon! so everyone please CARRY ON!” Ronnie Platt said in a Facebook post.

Thyroid Cancer starts in the thyroid gland according to The American Cancer Society. “The thyroid makes hormones that help regulate your metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.”

Per the Mayo Clinic, “Thyroid cancer might not cause any symptoms at first. But as it grows, it can cause signs and symptoms, such as swelling in your neck, voice changes and difficulty swallowing.”

The band announced on Instagram that the KANSAS “show on Friday, February 14, 2025, in Catoosa, OK is rescheduled to Friday, November 21, 2025. The upcoming KANSAS show on Saturday, February 15, 2025, in Durant, OK is rescheduled to Saturday, November 22, 2025.”

Platt’s passion for music began at a young age. He was heavily influenced by classic rock and progressive rock bands, developing a powerful tenor voice that would later define his career.

Before joining Kansas, Platt spent decades performing in various bands, including Shooting Star, and worked as a truck driver to support himself. His big break came in 2014 when he was selected to replace longtime Kansas lead singer Steve Walsh, who retired after more than 40 years with the band. Platt’s voice was noted for its striking similarity to Walsh’s, making him a natural fit for the group.

With Platt as the frontman, Kansas released their first studio album in 16 years, The Prelude Implicit, in 2016. The album was well-received by fans and critics, proving that the band could continue its legacy with a new voice. He also contributed to the band’s follow-up albums, The Absence of Presence (2020) and Another Fork in the Road – 50 Years of Kansas (2022).

Throughout his tenure with Kansas, Platt has toured extensively, performing the band’s classic hits like “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind” to enthusiastic audiences worldwide. His ability to honor the band’s original sound while bringing his own energy to the stage has won him a dedicated following.