A classic rock band is replacing a longtime member who says he’s “slowing down.”

Kansas announced Wednesday that Scott Bernard is now officially a new member of the group. Bernard has been filling in for original guitarist Rich Williams, who will remain an official member.

“Scott Bernard is a fantastic guitar player, a great guy, and is my hand-picked choice to help carry on the legacy of the band Kansas,” Williams said in a statement . “I am not stepping down nor retiring, but I am slowing down.”

According to Ultimate Classic Rock , the lineup change comes after Kansas wrapped its tour dates with .38 Special. Kansas has more than 30 additional concerts scheduled this fall.

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Williams, 75, co-founded Kansas in 1973 and played on the p

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