Chicago, the Band

While listening to old WLS broadcasts at reelradio.com, I was reminded of how much airplay Chicago got on their hometown radio station.

The fact is that Chicago (the band) has had its triumphs over the years, as well as its rough spots. Some might argue that they hit their peak in the 1970's, before the unfortunate demise of singer and bassist/guitarist Terry Kath, whose distinctive voice was heard on songs like Little One, Make Me Smile, and Colour My World. Others might say they are just now hitting their stride, with newly released album Chicago XXX doing well on the charts and with many critics.

What Chicago did was get horns into good old fashioned rock and roll, when nobody else was doing so. Many new groups in the 60's copied the Beatles' sparse two guitars, a bass, and a set of drums. Ironically, shortly after Chicago Transit Authority started getting noticed, the Fab Four released Got to Get You Into My Life, loaded with horns. Coincidence?

They had to shorten their name to avoid the wrath of the humorless official Transit Authority, but soon became a mainstay of radio and top forty charts. Amazingly, they toured with Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. That makes me view them in a whole new light.

Today's FamilyFirst site is their official one. It's loaded with history, photos, and info for fans, or folks who might become fans.

There's no doubt about it. Chicago's best music is among the greatest music ever made.

http://www.chicagotheband.com/

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