First Time Hearing Chicago 25 or 6 to 4 Tanglewood 1970 (First Reaction)

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[@poloreacts27]

This won't be my last run-in with this band. SHEESH!! Thanks for watching! Most of my requests come from here. To support the show here www.patreon.com/poloreacts or show your love for the channel by buying me a coffee www.buymeacoffee.com/poloreacts 🤞🏾

[@bhoffman8984]

True story: Chicago and Hendrix were playing the same festival (Montreux, maybe?) and in passing, Jimi said to Peter Cetera (but I could be wrong there), the lead singer "that horn section sounds like it plays with one set of lungs and that guitarist you got is better than me." Terry Kath never gets the respect he deserves as one of the GOAT's but he's definitely way up there.

[@0sopardo]

polo man! Chicago is a very very good and tight band but this has got to be one of their sloppiest performances. do yourself a favor and listen to the same song as performed by Steve Winwood.

[@StevesFunhouse]

Yeah, you DO need to do the studio version. The solo isn't as long, but it is EPIC and the fills, which he didn't do many of here, are awesome !!!

[@dookiehowser1162]

Kath shredded that guitar, what an absolute talent. What a tragedy that he accidentally shot himself, taken way too early.

[@mailmanjim57]

If you can find their greatest hits album, it'll be a nice shortcut to find their good stuff Saturday In The Park, Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is, are a couple of my favorite Chicago tunes.

[@jefferyshute6641]

Down the rabbit hole. One of the best bands ever, and Terry Kath's guitar playing was incredible. R.I.P Terry.

[@Mertztillithurts]

See my comment lol

[@jasonlighton9636]

Dude was so underrated.

[@zenhaelcero8481]

One of the very best!

[@ungenerationed9022]

I was 16 when he passed and a big fan. Too soon.

[@markwilliams6394]

​@@ungenerationed9022I was 13.

[@MickLoud999]

The thing I love about Terry Kath is that his solos are one continuous thought. He doesn't take a break to refresh. He just keeps going without taking a breath. He is almost unparalleled in this regard. RIP Terry you are an icon.

[@doncampbell7487]

Excactly. He knew where he was going every second. Never had to pause to regroup

[@Chical209]

"Make Me Smile", "Im a Man", "Beginings" are all classic CTA/Chicago songs

[@bookhouseboy280]

"Make Me Smile" is a single edit and is missing some great parts. It and "Color My World" are best heard in their original context, the "Ballet for a Girl in Buchanon" suite.

[@Rassskle]

I’m a Man is a cover of The Spencer Davis’ Groups arrangement of the very old blues standard Mannish Boy. Terry added a little Hendrix style guitar to spice it a little differently. lol

[@elegantirony78]

Yes! All those!!!

[@ZZ430T56]

Great trio right there.

[@cindipossidento5688]

Omg ….. BEGINNINGS, was me and my husbands song !!!

[@Tejaswrex]

That guitar solo is just downright filthy.

[@bevklayman4158]

You said it, brother. You were born at the wrong time. Thankfully, all recorded music is available to you! I am an old lady, 72. I was a freshman in college when their first album, Chicago Transit Authority, came out. I wore it out on my turntable. But truthfully, the 60s were an embarrassment of riches musically. Only equaled by the swing era of my parents. Tap into their first 2 albums, plus check out Blood, Sweat and Tears, their contemporaries.

[@leadoucet1432]

Blood, Sweat and Tears! ❤ Oh my, I feel like an 18 year old again. Emmerson, Lake and Palmer, too! Sly! When bands had instruments...

[@vickiguyer3807]

I'm with you on this! I saw Chicago Transit Authority in 1969 playing as the warm up band for Jimi Hendrix and they were unbelievable. I went right out bought their first album and played it constantly. Second album is great too but the first one is a masterpiece.

[@janicemacmillan2610]

@@leadoucet1432I saw Emerson Lake and Palmer in concert, they had a flying piano that spun like a plane while he played it.

[@armadillotoe]

71 years old, and I don't remember who owned the house, but I remember when they put "Introduction" their double album on, and we listened to all 4 sides. It remains a must-have.

[@leadoucet1432]

@@janicemacmillan2610 omg! Lucky you! I'm feeling very jealous right now lol

[@patrickmcevoy5080]

Definitely one of the best bands of their era. Three world-class lead vocalists, great songwriting, and each instrumentalist was a badass in his own right. And as you could tell here, their complex arrangements really made them stand out too. There's a lot of material from them to enjoy.

[@buscem00]

Very good point put. They had three great vocalists!

[@molesoul40]

My very first concert was Chicago in 1972. I was 12 years old and went with my family. And I was blown away! Even my dad was hollering "Yeah!" throughout the show (shocking to my 12-year-old self). What a great song and performance by the now-legendary band. Those early years were Chicago's absolute best. Thanks for your awesome reaction. That performance was EPIC.

[@kevinlockwood1434]

Chicago is definitely in my top 10. The horns, Peters voice, the layers of sound.. its just so good. Classic sound for sure.

[@joseluisalarconsanchez7816]

Magnificent see a reaction like yours so many years after the performance. Thanks very much.

[@SaverioP]

Their cover of "I'm a Man" is absolute 🔥.

[@AaronJoseph-t4b]

What's even more extra-extraordinary is that guitarist/vocalist Terri Kath recorded the studio version with a broken jaw & his mouth was wired shut,SUPER HUMAN!!! Who would even venture to try it given the circumstance?!!!😮😊❤❤❤

[@joetori8356]

Correction: Peter Cetera's jaw was wired. Terry Kath was the guitarist on this track.

[@AaronJoseph-t4b]

@@joetori8356 thank you Joe, I stand corrected, I got myself informed late, I come to appreciate what I didn't buy on wax when it was still fairly fresh a lot more, especially what's in the mainstream which is "Has been(sometimes never was)" like a worn out coat used for 25 years straight,not entirely "A Johnny come lately" just need remindin' sometimes, ✌️

[@budhalbr]

In the latter part of Chicago's career, they toured and played on stage with Earth Wind and Fire. Both bands took turns playing each other's songs. That was, as the youngsters say, EPIC!

[@mayrnibird9224]

e w and f one of my lifelong fave bands. maurice white was also from chicago. i would have loved to be at that concert. phil collins eventually poached e w and f's horn section.

[@davidblantz]

Terry Kath just blew that guitar up ! Incredible live performance. Terry left it all out there for everyone to see. Wow.

[@vixter28]

Polo I just started watching you & I’m pleased to see younger generation appreciating our music ! We had the BEST MUSIC! I’ve loved it since a teenager!

[@anthonyv1719]

One of the few times when the live version is better than the studio version.

[@michaellynch9550]

I actually don’t think the live version is better. It’s tighter and cleaner sounding in the studio version and all the notes are hit perfectly in the studio version. I know everybody has different opinions on things but I just enjoy that about the studio version more.

[@anthonyv1719]

@@michaellynch9550 I can agree with your assessment - tighter and cleaner. No doubt. Just a personal preference that is all.

[@lisarainbow9703]

@@michaellynch9550 I agree-- as much as I appreciate the energy of the live performance, I think Kath sounds better on the studio cut.

[@neilmartin99]

I respectfully disagree. The guitar solo on the live version is incredible but the vocals on the studio version are pretty tough to beat.

[@chuckailsworth3181]

What makes this whole performance of the this song and maybe the concert is that Terry Kath sees the drummer Danny Seraphine trying to fix his cymbal. Terry is like "we gotta go! Don't worry about the cymbal, we gotta go." and he starts a slow burn jam. The roadie and Robert Lamm try to help with the cymbal. Terry is having none of it. Keeps his jam and keeps the push of "We gotta go. These folks aren't here to see us fix a cymbal. We gotta go." Peter Cetera joins Terry's jam as if saying "he's right, we gotta go." Robert joins the jam in agreement. Danny finally agrees and joins the jam as he is still working his set! But he now knows "we gotta go!" No body says anything. But you know this is going through all their heads. When James Pankow gives his "YEAH!" as Cetera starts singing you know he was thinking "we gotta go" from the beginning but as he doesn't start the piece, so he can't join the jam. Clearly he knows they are on a great ride! I am sure the whole crowd was already saying that to themselves too. Sure, Kath's solo in the studio is cleaner. And they have a few more sounds they couldn't get live. But Kath's solo here has more to it and the slow burn jam at the beginning is the fuse to set the house on fire. You get the buildup of anticipation as you see it slowly burning knowing there is going to be an explosion. And they don't disappoint. The band explodes and it's a good thing Tanglewood has no walls because they would have been blown away. There are few live performances by any bands that hit what Chicago hit this night. The fact that it was captured on film is a gift for all music lovers. The energy of this version overpowers any possible short comings to the studio. I might be willing to say the versions are of equal value. But can't say the studio is better. Nope. And I grew up on the studio version.

[@MusicHeartofMine2012]

Chicago came at you from so many angles. No matter who they had something for you. The great sounds of horns and harmonizing of the 60's and 70's.

[@jeffrubinelectronics]

So much to choose from. Early Chicago is the pure form. 1st song of the 1st album (Chicago Transit Authority) is called "Introduction". If you never listen to another song by them, check that one.

[@pattyandersen5516]

I was so lucky to see THIS band in the early 70’s. 3+ hours of beautiful music. One of the best shows I’ve ever seen. And I’ve seen many.

[@Festus171]

I read that Terry Kath was Jimmy Hendrix favorite guitar player. Your instincts are on point! Great band with an incredible catalog. You've got lots yet to discover.

[@jenniferworley7115]

One of the greatest bands ever. Hard to believe this performance is from the year I graduated high school. So blessed to have grown up to all the great music and groups of the 60's throughout the 70's, 80's and 90's. Something groundbreaking coming out it seemed like every month. Thanks for your great reaction. Peace✌

[@vickieray]

I still remember the day Terry Kath died in January of 1978 😌🥺 He was the soul of the band ♥️ They have an extremely deep rabbit hole but worth every minute!! One of my favorite songs from Chicago is “Dialogue Parts I & II” ♥️ It’s all one song with 2 distinct sections. You would love it ♥️🎤🎶🎸♥️

[@johnchurch9351]

Best guitar work in the history of rock on this song. The fills in the studio version after the solo will blow your mind. PURE GENIUS.

[@sbalman]

I am 70 years old. I could tell a story of the first time hearing this new album out by Chicago but I won't bore all of you. I was 16 years old. I will never forget any of that moment because the music of Chicago was it's background. I am so glad you liked it, Polo.

[@stvbrsn]

It’s easy to see why this is considered to be one of the best live electric guitar solos ever recorded.

[@gregm3406]

I love in the early days like this how Terry would go off on a long improvised solo, get himself backed into corner then muscle his way out of it. What a journey he would take you on when he was live. The 9 minute solo on the live version of south california purples on the carnegie hall album is another example. You have no idea where hes going next or how hes going to get back. Always exciting to listen too

[@jackarmstrong1838]

That solo is like nothing other I have ever heard.

[@RevLetaLee]

So good. One of those we used to lay on the floor and listen to the whole album over and over.

[@candicewaller403]

Studio version is intense and so clean. Utterly beautiful. One of my favorite jams.

[@kimberlyianaro3774]

As a child of the 70's, this is the music of my life. Enjoy 😊

[@subwaygoddess1]

I'm so happy you discovered Chicago!!! The 1st song I heard was "Make Me Smile," which is 🔥🔥. My favorite is "Saturday In the Park."

[@MsAmericanMaid]

Every High School and University School Bands played the heck out of this song back in the 1970's. It was everywhere.

[@susangallagher1863]

They have an entire HUGE catalogue of incredible music

[@susangallagher1863]

Classiest live performance you would ever hope to see. They come to Michigan usually once a year and I never want to miss it - they never fail to awe the crowd - and the 3 original brass players sound just as good as they did 30 Years ago - huge catalogue of beautiful and classy tunes ….

[@mstewart109]

This band. Omg! And the brass!! And Terry Kath and his guitar. Terry and his guitar one of a kind. RiP Terry. My favorite song of theirs with his performance

[@ExcelionYogi]

You have 11 records (From Chicago Transit Authority, first album, through Chicago II up to Chicago XI) with this exact lineup and music of this calibre. This whole concert (Tanglewood) gives you a pretty good idea of what the band did the first two albums. Later on their music got more mature and diverse as every member got input as a composer. The whole suite "Ballet for a girl in Buchannon" is a great follow up song. "Beginnings", "Does anybody really know what time it is", "Questions 67 & 68" are other classic songs.

[@mrappe51]

Saw them in concert 3 times when I was in college around this time. One of my favorite bands. So many good songs.

[@OkieStar]

This was my first 8-track tape and became my first live show in 1973 at Oklahoma City. What a great start to my true music journey that is still going.✌

[@billwalker7556]

You may have to explain 8 track tapes to those younger than us who had them.

[@simmom1951]

I just found you Polo and have really enjoyed you listening to “my “ music. In May of 1969 I saw Jimi Hendrix in Charlotte NC and the Chicago Transit Authority was the before band. Thanks for playing this one

[@jaymarie7713]

Phenomenal song & band. Their old tracks define the expression "jam bands". ❤

[@gooddaysahead1]

If I could go back in time, this is one of the performances I would make sure I saw. This whole concert is on YT. It is otherworldly. I saw these same guys play indoors in 1973. But to be at this venue, in the summer...my God

[@Abfabcomic11]

THISSS! Is my childhood right here!! My dad driving with this 8 track blasting! Man, my parent’s listened to theee best music!

[@sandyboudreaux-barber9586]

You must do Their version of I’m a Man

[@bigskyrambler]

ABSOLUTELY !!!

[@angiehh516]

I’ve seen Chicago live several times over the years. I’m usually one of the younger people in the audience. Been listening to them since I was little. Such talented musicians.

[@baronofgreymatter14]

YOU HAVE NO IDEA their catalog is DEEP

[@thisiknowwithjohnfield5067]

I was born in 1967. A lot of young years were spent listening to music like this. Yet, I never knew about all THIS! 🔥🔥😊😊😊

[@michaelsullivan6854]

People from 8 to 80 love this group and I can't think of a higher compliment

[@Doughickey1234]

Them horns and the guitarist will the whole band is just excellent

[@brucecronin6396]

Great reaction !! CHICAGO sold more albums than Elvis and The Beatles COMBINED !! Tremendous Fanbase and women loved them too !!

[@newnoggin2]

In one year or what? Other than that you are being ridiculous

[@bp-ob8ic]

Peter Cetera sang the lead here, and Terry Kath (RIP) was the guitarist. The horns seem to echo the vocals, and underpin the guitar solo. Pure genius. By the time I got to high school in the mid 70s, Chicago songs were a staple of our playbook. You can spend forever crawling through their songs, and hear something new every time.

[@mikecaro5031]

Great response Chicago not only was a great band with TOP musicians they were on the radio every single day all the time, hit after hit after hit… Things are right in the world when the best artists musicians are the most successful as well Much like them in regards were steely Dan earth wind n fire and soooo many more RIP Terry Kath n ty

[@cameronstestingart794]

Was in Jr high and this blew our minds! They just kept coming out with hit after hit. All the guy bands in school did this solo and were crazy amazing! We had something so special and we knew it. I couldn’t imagine being in any other era. Next for them “Questions 67 and 68” “Make me Smile” “I’m a Man”

[@robertdawson8522]

Bass player is Peter Cetera

[@ladyspu]

I had my teen years in the late 60s early 70s. I was so lucky to have the music from those years ingrained in me. Best musical time to be alive.

[@Thomas-aka-TomD]

Fire of course! Make sure you do "I'm a Man" (cover of the great Steve Winwood song) and "Make me Smile"

[@97lynds21]

LIve version of I'm a Man at Tanglewood is fantastic.

[@Thomas-aka-TomD]

@@97lynds21 indeed!

[@TimothyOwens-i4e]

It's SO cool that you played this song! I've told people for years that thanks to my Dad's love of all genres of music I was born and raised in Philly but bands like this (I was 5 years old when this came out!) allowed me to hear music like the guitarist in this song! Growing up with R&B and hip hop the only reason I was exposed to bands like Chicago is because it was the music I grew up with in my household.

[@BobE316]

Over 50 years together, one of the top bands in history. I got to see the original group (in this video) in 1970.

[@lovesmusic0845]

We all had long hair in the late 60s/early 70s. I saw them twice in concert their heyday. They are just amazing. Their sound just flows through your body in an arena. It’s that powerful.

[@jamesbender4733]

Just happened on your feed. Brings warmth to my heart to see your reaction to 25-6-4. I’ve been listening for over 50 years. There are like 37 albums. I recommend STRONGLY that you start from CTA (old name of the band Chicago Transit Authority) to Chicago 7. That’s the real Chicago. Terry Kath was the man. Raw Music.

[@thequeendt]

My first ever concert experience as seeing Chicago in Portland OR about 1974. Loved it so much, they were also my second concert experience!

[@clayrowden3916]

I am so grateful this was taped for us to enjoy forever. This band was magical. I had not heard Mr. Kath's work for a bit and agree with others, in that his guitar work here is on the pinnacle of all live rock performances. RIP Terry Kath (I grew up in this era and am very blessed for it)

[@glynnborders762]

I graduated in 1972 in Detroit. The music I have heard during youth was phenomenal. You're scraping the tip of the iceberg. Keep going!!

[@marcelaruiz1006]

When my son was in middle school they played this tune and he played the drums…..😊

[@cog4life]

My favorite band! Legendary! 25 or 6 to 4 is one of my favorites! Never will be another Chicago…😊 Studio version will blow your socks off! They have SOOOOO many great songs!

[@rk41gator]

'Introduction' from Chicago's first album "Chicago Transit Authority" showcases every member of the band. Probably the best beginning track ever created. The entire album is FIRE. They have so many wonderful albums. Check out their jazzy albums. 'A Hit By Varese' is pretty crazy.....crazy good.

[@garettelward6153]

It's so great to have that captured on video. Ya know I don't think Terry Kath repeats himself thru that whole first solo. He took guitar to a whole another place.

[@johnkmiec4music]

Introduction, first song on first album when called Chicago Transit Authority. Written by Terry Kath guitarist. First album is in Grammy Hall of Fame.

[@worldfamouslanglois4805]

Terry Kath .. talking guitar .. one of the best live performances. And the sound is so good! cheers mate

[@vanman9607]

I love when you look at the camera like "DAMN, did you just hear that? " lol

[@wendemyre755]

Their first greatest hits album is so amazing it has been on my playlist for 3 decades ❤

[@randallcastillo2179]

I went to their concert in the 70s. Wooooooow!

[@austinschaefer804]

The trumpet in the video is every high school pep band trumpet player ever I had this song for every football game of senior year and i still remember the fingers for all the notes in that little trill

[@hourihan58]

Saw them in concert this year, three original members still touring. One of America's most under-rated bands. Check out: "Does Anybody Really Know What Time it is?" and "Saturday in the Park." This band is a hit parade for four decades of work.

[@EmmaNemmz]

❤❤❤I LOVE IT when Younger people get to hear the GREATS that were playing when I was 6,7... You obviously have an ear for greatness Young Man! ❤

[@Dylanpro648]

Music is food for the soul and I am always hungry❤

[@nancymjohnson]

When I was growing up, Chicago toured constantly. Usually with The Beach Boys, and later The Doobie Brothers. I’ve been fortunate enough to see them a dozen times before I was 16. My sister and I never missed them. Terry Kath was a monster on guitar.

[@WSallai]

I saw Chicago about two years ago…fantastic! I think they have a total of 38 albums, which should give you lots to listen to!!

[@jxenciso]

This is going to be a great ride. Thank You for this. Chicago was part of the soundtrack of my childhood.

[@buscem00]

Being from Boston this is one of the coolest concerts that happened in the early 70's!

[@amjrpain919]

Beginning was the one to start your journey with, Polo. It was the first song of their first album. And it was M A G I C

[@pamelasmall9018]

Grew up listening to Chicago. So glad you loved this. Great music, love the instrumentals.

[@caroleann_2142]

Terry was an absolute BEAST, I JUST LOVE HIM.

[@jameschatwick5754]

74 year old black Vietnam veteran. Sit down, smoke a joint with a very good glass of Jefferson Reserve, and listen to the first three albums. It's going to be a long time, because all three are two album sets. But trust me, its worth it. Oh hell yeah.

[@jameschatwick5754]

Also Santana's first three albums. I guess that's when Santana and Chicago were hungry. Your stomach will make you move around, won't it. ❤️ ☮️ & happiness. The Chamber Brother's. 🇺🇲😎

[@trudyrutkowski]

My high school years & till today still loving on my hometown band. Literally worn out the albums. Saw them everytime they were in town. I think my senior year went to all three concerts one day after another. Better each day. Thanks for your precise reaction. This band was elite. Weren't always given the credit they deserved. Soldier on. You will not be disappointed. ❤

[@joymiller4253]

Yay! you finally made it to Chicago!!!

[@PeaDeeDubya]

My favorite band in 8th grade! I’m old but I saw all the great bands.

[@northmaineguy5896]

I was there sitting 50 feet from the stage; I was 15 and my older sister had to drive me there. They also had the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and John Sebastian perform. Quite a night!

[@kenbelke8549]

the song called Introduction...1st song on 1st album......written to introduce the band and its players!

[@aandpman]

Welcome to your new favorite band. They've been mine for 50yrs 😀

[@randallcastillo2179]

Great comments...I saw Chicago in concert in the 70s..never forget

[@Ojisan642]

Their first album, Chicago Transit Authority, is a masterpiece. This song is from their second album, Chicago II. And yes hearing the studio version of 25 or 6 to 4 is a good idea, because you will hear tons more detail in the horns and guitar and vocal harmonies.

[@loisr3970]

Yes Polo, I knew you would love this, make ya feel good ome of the most iconic guitar solo's of all time.... All crammed on that little stage. They were a wonderful band so full of surprises! Sure hope you are feelin better. I heard a song the other day. Thought of you. Dream Theatre.... The answer lies within. Hope u get a chance to listen and it brings you peace. Cheers

[@Craig-fc6fn]

Great band, I was listening to them back in the 70s. Yep the have a lot of music

[@joniarmel7308]

I was in high school when this band exploded on the music scene , listen , discover the rest of their songs . Enjoy the journey like it used to be . Thank you for discovering one of the greatest bands of our generation.

[@clf8668]

I love Chicago I love all the horns ! I wish more bands play horns especially the alto saxophone…. One of my favorite songs back when it came out 1868 to 1974 music ❤️

[@jimcox8148]

To say they have a lot of content is a huge understatement. Their first 3 albums were released in less than 3 years and all 3 were double album sets. Although band members have changed and their style has changed, there are still 3 original members and they are still producing music today.

[@whenisdinner2137]

I don't know how but somehow this song got into basically every high school band program in america

[@charliegarnett9757]

I’m sure someone already mentioned but the little delay at the beginning was because the last song the drummer went wild and knocked over some of his equipment. They were setting it back up.

[@stevencoghill4323]

I was 15 when this came out. We were envious of our friends where were able to snap a copy of the LP. It cost a fortune back then.

[@robinreiley1828]

Chicago was Huge when they hit the Charts! Their music appealed to all the Generations, one of the few acts that kids, young adults in their 20s and 30s , as well as their Parents all liked. Jimi Hendrix considered Chicago's guitarist, Terry Kath to be The Best in the World!

[@douglassnyder214]

I actually LOL when you said "I hope they have a lot [of songs]". Yeah. 23 gold, 18 platinum, and 8 multi-platinum albums, five number-one albums and 21 top-ten singles, amongst American Bands, only Beach Boys had more Billboard singles. They sold over 100 million records. Terry Kath was one of the greatest guitarists of all time. So sad we lost him so early. But, Peter Cetera was amazing on vocals during this era, and Danny Seraphine was a great drummer. Of course, there are about 50 former members of the band, so they had several sometimes wildly different incarnations. This era is my personal favorite. They rocked it out!