Formation and Early Stints
In 1967, six university friends began to jam together after they shared some music preferences and hence Chicago was born. Initially known as The Big Thing, the group included the tenor, Peter Cetera to their lineup. With some of their initial cover songs, the seven members played at the native gigs.
Making a name for themselves within a year, they earned a recording deal with the Columbia Records and started to work on their first album. Changing their name to The Chicago Transit Authority, the band released their debut self-titled record in 1969. The album became a top twenty hit on the Billboard 200 and received two Platinum certifications. This rare success made the band famous on the international level.
Reigning Records and Success
The band’s name shortened to Chicago after their first album and they released three consecutive Platinum records under the moniker. Their fifth album, Chicago V came out in 1972 and became their first record to top the Billboard 200. Throughout the 70s, the group ruled the international music charts with their one after the other chartbusters and received multi-Platinum certifications. Such massive success and fame earned within a decade made Chicago one of the most prolific bands of the era.
The 80s brought a noticeable difference in the band’s sound as one of the founding members, Terry Kath died after an accidental gunshot. With Donnie Dacus joining the group, Chicago’s remarkable journey continued without a hitch and they came up with more acclaimed records in the coming years.
Changes over the Years and Recent Ventures
Chicago went through another lineup change after Peter Cetera left the band in 1985 to pursue a solo career. This didn’t affect the band’s popularity as they added a number of Gold and Platinum records to their repertoire. In the late 80s and early 90s, fusion of jazz became a prominent element of their music which helped them to expand their core rock fan base. The 90s’ decade ended with their yet another musical feat, Chicago XXV: The Christmas Album.
Chicago’s fame never dwindled, instead their career thrived further as the stepped into the 2000s. Their 2002 album, The Very Best Of: Only the Beginning became their 18th record to be certified as Platinum. Besides consistent recording, the group headlined their concerts throughout the US and also performed with other bands such as Earth, Wind & Fire, America and Doobie Brothers. High demand of Chicago – The Band tickets maintained their leading status among other American music groups.
With Robert Lamm, Walt Parazaider, Lee Loughnane, Tris Imboden, James Pankow, Walfredo Reyes Jr., Keith Howland and Lou Pardini on board, Chicago is now an octet. Shared chemistry and creative energy drives all of the band’s music endeavors and they continue to lead a wonderful career.
Chicago Live
With the release of some new singles this year, Chicago has launched their recent tour. The band will be extensively touring around the US and Canada besides special shows in various cities around the world. Experience their highly energetic live performances by attending one of their concerts.