When Darkness Falls, Carry On | Carry On My Wayward Son | Kansas

Carry On My Wayward Son is a iconic song by American rock band Kansas, released in 1976 on their album Leftoverture. The song's lyrics were written by Kerry Livgren, the band's lead vocalist and guitarist, with music composed by Phil Ehart, the drummer.

The song tells the story of a young man who has been given up for dead by his loved ones, but he refuses to give in. He's determined to carry on, no matter what challenges come his way. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and symbolism, painting a picture of a world in chaos and upheaval.

One of the most striking aspects of Carry On My Wayward Son is its use of apocalyptic imagery. The song's chorus features the lines "There'll be peace when you are done / Lay your weary head to rest," which have been interpreted as a reference to the end times or the apocalypse. This theme is echoed in other parts of the song, such as the line "You can check out any time you like but you can never leave."

Despite its dark themes, Carry On My Wayward Son has become one of Kansas' most beloved and enduring songs. It's a testament to the band's ability to craft music that is both catchy and meaningful. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including rock bands like Van Halen and Queensrÿche.

In 1976, Carry On My Wayward Son was released as a single, but it didn't gain much traction at first. It wasn't until Kansas performed the song on their album Leftoverture that it started to gain popularity. Today, the song is considered one of the band's greatest hits, and its themes of perseverance and hope continue to resonate with listeners around the world.

The song has also become iconic in popular culture, with references in TV shows like Supernatural and American Dad!. It's a testament to the power of music to transcend genres and generations, and Carry On My Wayward Son remains one of Kansas' most beloved and enduring songs.