In the live recording of "Can I Tell You" from Don Kirshner's Rock Concert, Kansas was in a pivotal phase of their career, having released their self-titled debut album in 1974. This album, showcasing their unique blend of progressive rock with elements of hard rock, set the stage for their subsequent success. "Can I Tell You," a track from this debut, highlights the band's early sound that combined intricate musicianship with thought-provoking lyrics. At this time, Kansas was starting to gain recognition and build a loyal following, partly due to their compelling live performances. The live aspect of this recording emphasizes their energetic stage presence, which would become a hallmark of their concerts. Notably, this period laid the groundwork for future albums, such as "Song for America" and ultimately "Leftoverture," which would propel them into mainstream fame.