Dennis DeYoung has recently made headlines with his strong response to Tommy Shaw’s comments about their time together in Styx. The tension between the two has been a topic of discussion among fans for years, and DeYoung’s latest remarks have reignited the debate.
Styx’s 1983 concept album, “Kilroy Was Here,” was a pivotal moment for the band. The album’s success, particularly the hit single “Mr. Roboto,” brought them newfound popularity. However, it also divided their fan base. Many long-time fans were unhappy with the band’s new musical direction, and the album ultimately led to the band’s breakup in 1984.
Despite the controversy, DeYoung has always been a staunch defender of “Kilroy Was Here.” He has often expressed his love for the album and its tracks, including the much-debated “Mr. Roboto.” For DeYoung, the song is a fun yet dramatic piece with a standout vocal performance. He believes the album contains some of the best music Styx ever produced, even though its concept was not fully realized.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Haven’t We Been Here Before,” a duet between DeYoung and Shaw. Written by Shaw, the song features beautiful harmonies and delicate vocals. DeYoung has praised Shaw’s performance on the track, noting the emotional depth and subtle brilliance of the music. The song’s guitar solo, played by Shaw, is a highlight, showcasing the band’s progressive rock roots.
DeYoung has often lamented the band’s breakup after “Kilroy Was Here.” He believes they were on the verge of something new and exciting musically. Tracks like “Just Get Through This Night,” “Double Life,” and “Haven’t We Been Here Before” are among his favorites, and he has always wondered what a follow-up album might have sounded like. When the band reunited in 1995, minus drummer John Panozzo, they had all moved in different musical directions, and any hopes of more music in the vein of “Kilroy Was Here” were dashed.
In his recent response to Shaw, DeYoung expressed his desire to perform the entire “Kilroy Was Here” album live. He believes the album is too good to be left unplayed and hopes to give it the live treatment it deserves. DeYoung is confident that he has learned from the missteps of the original “Kilroy” tour in 1983 and promises no theatrics or prerecorded tracks, just a fully live version of the album from start to finish.
DeYoung’s comments have sparked renewed interest in “Kilroy Was Here” and the possibility of a live performance. Fans are eager to see if DeYoung will follow through on his promise and bring the album to life on stage. While the current version of Styx is unlikely to play the album, DeYoung’s dedication to the project gives fans hope that they may one day hear “Kilroy Was Here” in its entirety.
The ongoing tension between DeYoung and Shaw continues to be a point of fascination for Styx fans. DeYoung’s strong response to Shaw’s comments has only added fuel to the fire, and it remains to be seen how Shaw will react. For now, fans can only wait and see if DeYoung’s dream of performing “Kilroy Was Here” live will become a reality.
