(CelebrityAccess) — The legendary rock band Kansas announced that founding drummer and band manager Phil Ehart will be taking a break from his touring duties while he recovers from what was described as a “major” heart attack.

According to the band, he will continue to handle his duties as band manager, a role that he has held for the past forty years.

During his hiatus from touring, Kansas announced that Eric Holmquist will step in behind the drums, starting on March 1st when Kansas performs in n Richmond, VA. Holmquist , who was Phil’s drum tech and protegé for more than 20 years, has previously filled in on drums for the band, including in 2016 when Ehart was ill and then again in 2021 and 2022 when Ehart was undergoing rehab for an injured arm.

Kansas is currently on the road 50th Anniversary Tour with the next show scheduled for March 1st at the Carpenter Theatre in Richmond, VA.