What’s Chicago's Greatest Song of the '70s?

In today's livestream I discuss the band Chicago and we try to answer the question of what their Greatest Hit of the '70s was.
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[@KurtFlechtner]

As a youngster, I always loved Feeling Stronger Every Day. After my wife died in 2005 at age 44, I rediscovered that song and made it my anthem for overcoming terrible grief. "Knowing that you would have wanted it this way I do believe I'm feeling stronger every day" gave me strength to move on and rebuild my life. The upbeat chugging finale of the song was inspirational for me going forward. I would love to tell Peter Cetera how his song helped me find a way through my personal tragedy.

[@jackwalker4744]

FSED was my favorite as well-- among the many ultra-strong contenders. And "Alive Again" (best intro ever, and by far the best post-Kath track!) was a very worthy successor form Cetera and Pankow.

[@erikas3337]

​@@jackwalker4744 Alive Again is amazing!

[@jimsokaitis8502]

God Bless you, sir.

[@peanutbutterisfu]

Just wanted to say I’m So sorry to read about this the loss of your wife and I hope you have been able to move on. I don’t you obviously but I’m sure your wife would want you to do whatever makes you happy, GOD BLESS YOU!

[@jimsokaitis8502]

Peace. 🙏

[@johnmclelland4278]

We were absolutely spoiled in the 70’s…….great music on the radio all day every day!

[@JJJJJVVVVVLLLLL]

even the most random AM station was guaranteed magic in the 70s

[@cheaplaughkennedy2318]

That’s a good way to put it and I didn’t realize that until years later for comparison.

[@bigtalk2598]

This video has me tearing up. It brings back memories of my dad, who recently passed. He would buy a record and bring it home and play it after work until he got tired of it, then would get another one. This Chicago album was one that lasted a long time, so these songs just transport me to my living room I grew up in, yellow shag carpet, fake wood panelling on the walls, huge box TV, huge stereo cabinet with large speakers embedded on the sides. I'm not sure you realize how emotional these videos make your viewers. I'm sure I'm not the only one.

[@LaneDenson]

My dad was my introduction to Chicago... the last concert we went to together before he passed was a Chicago show in '98.

[@paulmercogliano5816]

Condolences to you and everyone who knew and loved your Dad. Brings back memories of the "better" old days....buying Chicago albums at a "record" pace!

[@jazzpianousa]

I own all albums from Transit Authority to 14. After that only cursory because of the shift away from the horns. It was never the same after Terry Kath. Plus Donnie Dacus never had a chance. No guitarist who followed right after Terry would. Terry Kath is so underrated and under appreciated not only as a guitarist but as a composer and a vocalist. You should watch his daughter's documentary about her dad. Truly moving.

[@adoman6355]

Thank you for such a fantastic live stream of my favorite group of all time. Love hearing your comments. (Got such a kick out of hearing your appreciation for Terry Kath in I've Been Searching So Long”!!) Brings back so many wonderful memories…

[@christopherhebert9069]

Epic and glorious memories to have just wonderful 🤧

[@joebivona5590]

25 or 6 to 4 isn't just Chicago's best song, but just about the best song that anybody did in the '70s. Stone cold classic! Long live Terry!

[@ianbarber311]

Especially the Tanglewood version. Someone using the name Mike Patton (could be him) said, "damn, Terry, what did that guitar ever do to you?".

[@Dr.ScatKohlenblo-nj2cv]

Hide the guns and he'd still be here.

[@caramanico1]

That Kath solo - when punches in the wah - OMG!

[@NoNameNoFace-rr7li]

the guitar solo was impossible to beat...even hendrix couldnt have done it better...

[@campinggrampa]

Chicago was the soundtrack of my life in the 70’s. I still get chills every time I hear Searching & Feelin Stronger.

[@ABCLakey2012]

Yes, these Chicago songs still give me the goosebumps. Good stuff. Good memories of listening to music on the radio at home when I was a kid.

[@buzzworth2396]

Absolutely the greatest band of my life!!! And I have been blessed to work 5 of their shows over the last 30 years. Very first concert I ever attended. Sept 20th,1971. Lake Spivey Calloway Gardens Ga. Didn't tell my parents & I was hooked. In highschool I was in advanced band in what they called Jazz lab. I played electric bass. This band is my favorite, hands down. Robert lamm took the time to talk to me after a show in Tunica. He asked me what was the first concert I ever saw them. My answer stunned him. He couldn't believe I remembered the date. Hell I remembered everything!!!! Opening song & even what he wore. There's a band by the name of Leonid and Friends. They do a phenomenal job on all their songs. Thank you for this!!!

[@milt6208]

Reminds me of playing high school football in the fall of "72" . Then I saw them at Big Surf in Tempe Arizona the next summer. Good old times for sure.

[@peterbush1595]

...the build up in "Searching" knocks me out

[@johncraft2995]

Rick, you are correct! These songs never get old. It was Terry’s band before he left us. He owned the stage with his power, virtuosity and presence that transcended the rest of the amazing musicians in this incredible band.

[@justinhayward42]

Make Me Smile is an all-time favorite. Kath’s vocals still give me chills after all these years and I’m 60.

[@barkbarkwoof1]

I hope you enjoy the full version

[@justinhayward42]

@@barkbarkwoof1 Absolutely!

[@mreuter892]

@@barkbarkwoof1 The full long version is incredible. I wish they had put that version on the greatest hits.

[@countrysister700]

My fave. Then my HS marching band played it in early 70's lol

[@davidahart2113]

The full version of Make Me Smile is called Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon.

[@nogoodhandlesareleft]

Rick, your enthusiasm is contagious. I need to get the vinyl Chicago vi now.

[@garykembel8144]

I'm 66, and you're helping me learn to listen with new ears. Great commentary on one of the musically richest bands of my youth.

[@mshell1959]

100%

[@Art-w1o]

Get the original CTI listen to I'm a Man

[@karenmcdunn3852]

​@@Art-w1oABSOLUTELY!!!

[@karenmcdunn3852]

Indeed‼️💯

[@paulg123]

Feelin' Stronger Every Day. That's my #1 Chicago song. The ending still gives me chills to this day...🙂

[@zeenuf00]

100%

[@lionheartroar3104]

I love the end segment where you can hear the background vocalists singing "Jumping jack flash It;s a gas gas gas".

[@joemauntel9381]

Absolutely agree!!!

[@emiliog.4432]

It’s Saturday in the park by Chicago

[@vincentobrien7353]

Mine too.

[@martykott450]

Chicago Transit Authority is IMHO the greatest double album ever released. It is Rock, Jazz, Blues, and Prog all blended into a lethal stew of ear candy.

[@JK-g62]

Yes sir!

[@TheReal1953]

Maybe for horn infusion into rock/pop and a variety of instruments. "The Butterfield Blues Band/Live" from the same period is dripping with solid Blues and deserves to be on an equal status.....which they never got.

[@bwithrow011]

Agreed 100%. It begins with Introduction and ends with Liberation. I'm not crazy about Free Form Guitar, but the rest is great

[@bwithrow011]

Agreed 100%. It begins with Introduction and ends with Liberation. I'm not crazy about Free Form Guitar, but the rest is great

[@nerenahd]

The Wall, Exile on Main St., Tommy, White Album, Physicall Grafitty, even Chicago II is a great contender. I do like CTA a lot, but definitely not the best double album IMHO.

[@janfwagner]

“Beginnings” is, in my view, Chicago’s opus and my all-time favorite from my hometown band

[@frankgerace5997]

A fellow musician and good friend of mine from high school named his band after that song!!

[@janfwagner]

@@frankgerace5997 extremely cool

[@katec7033]

That’s always been my favorite with Wishing You Were Here my fave ballad.

[@robsanz9746]

Agree w/ Every comment on this particular stream. 👍🏽

[@christinemurphy6899]

Agreed. Vocals, horns, everything--amazing!

[@Racingbro1986]

It’s amazing that songs with this amount of intricacy were ever on the top of the charts. It makes me feel sad for today.

[@tonusaitis]

It’s amazing and sad at the same time because it reflects how far the quality of popular music has fallen. It also serves to highlight how rock music is almost totally dead in the 2020s.

[@brianrabey6861]

Music was real back then, today it's just quick marketing tools for Making execs rich, nothing surprising, as soon as music began selling albums, the whole industry - funny word for a creative endeavour - began orienting itself toward big bucks.

[@audreykennedy90]

I am a child of the 70's. My father looooved Chicago. Todays standards for good music are so much lower. We were spoiled and so lucky at the same time. The best music.

[@donkalil4853]

Chicago was definitely one of the greatest bands of all time. Had Kath not met his untimely death he would surely be classified as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history.

[@peanutbutterisfu]

Agreed! I was born in 1984 so they were before my time but they have many timeless songs so people still can get into them. Some songs do sound dated but imo it’s not the actual song it’s how it was recorded like if they were recorded today they could be top 40! And to be honest my comment is really geared towards the listeners I feel that the few songs I’m thinking of are still fresh but ur every day regular person would say they sound old because of the organs and flute playing. I would also say the drums at times sound old not the style but how they were recorded. What’s amazing to me is how the horns don’t sound dated because they were recorded so well sounds hifi and the vocals man they sound like they were recorded yesterday very clean and clear hifi vocals so in key in the days before pitch correction. It sucks that people don’t know how much talent was required to be a musician like these guys back then. Nowadays ur lucky to have one person in a band that has half the talent that these guys did. It’s pretty safe to say that we probably won’t see a band with so many talented members ever again.

[@williamsanders3182]

He was one of the greatest. Just relatively unknown.

[@rileyhalls9301]

Hendrix so highly respected Kath. Hendrix thought Kath was " the best guitarist in the universr".

[@davidwand8046]

I was lucky to see him twice with Chicago.

[@RUfromthe40s]

great guitar sound played on the early Lp´s

[@mbcarlson]

Possibly the most talented band ever if you add up all the players. Just incredible musicianship, songwriting, arranging, vocals, instrumental performances, etc. Absolutely incredible!

[@cojaxart8986]

Being out at the lake with our girlfriends and backing the car up to the shore and cranking the 8-track of this album! What a memory. Such great songs! I played the hell out of the records and wore thgrooves out of them!

[@cojaxart8986]

Does anybody really know what time it is? Fav

[@TimTim3000]

They're definitely in the discussion, along with The Eagles and maybe a few others.

[@scottydog62]

Agreed, how they all work as a tight unit, doesn't seem like no one tries to outshine or do too much ,just incredible, To get that many guys to agree on ideas and have so many hit songs and they were so young, makes it all just phenomenal .....Just can't say no more , We were blessed with a lot of great bands in that era but Chicago, when you start breaking their songs down in detail , Talk about stars aligning, literally

[@tugglesthe1st85]

@@TimTim3000 Rush

[@melissagregory-oc5jq]

Unsure what song you’ll choose as the best but ‘Make Me Smile’ is my very favorite. Terry Kath’s vocals and guitar are incredible, the horns, keyboard, drums, bass absolutely superb. Just as great, 25 or 6 or More and Dialogue, Saturday in the Park. Quite frankly, like Queen, The Beatles, U2, Neil, CSNY….Chicago has almost too many from which to choose. Terry Kath, we miss you. Great video!

[@pinguinobc]

I agree! I would add that that Danny Seraphine's drumming was also amazing on the extended version of that song (when it was released as "Make Me Smile/Now More Than Ever.") That is one of the songs I categorize as "perfect" -- absolutely flawless.

[@altemose_prime]

My favorite too.

[@michaelbrickley2443]

25 or 6 to 4, the guitar of the late Terry Kath and his powerhouse vocals backed by the intense Danny Seraphine drumming and of course, the rest of the band. This was their showcase and most powerful piece of music

[@siguardvolsung]

I'm with you on that. Easy choice.

[@aristocat60]

plus the strangest harmonies ever played by the horns right at the end

[@thetranz13nt52]

That song's solo is also a masterpiece

[@WilkinsonX]

I’ve not heard another rock song that really matches the raw unrelenting energy of 25 or 6 to 4. By the end of that solo it sounds like the track is about ready to collapse in on itself.

[@tt55k]

Make Me Smile and their rendition of Stevie Winwood’s I’m a Man are my favorite ,

[@chrishayes4323]

I know 25 or 6 to 4 was written in the 60's, but it was released in 1970, so it qualifies. None of their other tunes compare. That guitar solo alone is epic. How the horns come in at the beginning gives me chills. The drums are great and Cetera's vocals, as well.

[@StormyDay]

It’s the reason why I bought the album in 1970!

[@chuckcourt8277]

I saw them twice this year. The beginning of 25 or 6 to 4 blows me away every time.

[@WilliamWallis]

This is the correct answer.

[@metathoughts732]

Best rock guitar solo of all time.

[@mikeporten8174]

Absolutely. 25 or 6 to 4 is the greatest guitar solo of all-time

[@brian4055]

Before I watch I'm saying 25 or 6 to 4 cause Terry Kath was Chicago in the 70s and he kills that track with the solos on it.

[@jean-philippeperetti8463]

I watched a live show where Terry kills that solo. Mind blowing. The studio version is so friggin good but, live?!?!

[@bryangirod9173]

25 or 6 to 4 is my all-time favorite Chicago song and in my personal Top 10 Classic Rock tracks.

[@vlada]

agreed.

[@ue4058]

@@bryangirod9173 Exactly. That Tanglewood 1970 performance that's on YT is insane. Kath blows the lid off the place.

[@fonkenful]

Mine too. As talented a singer as Michael McDonald is, he never quite did it for me like Peter or Terry. Was chilling this morning surfing Spotify, and while Chicago didn’t make this particular session, it was fun to look at the original release dates. Doobie Brother Toulouse Street 1972 - 50yrs ago😂

[@thetreeoflife6018]

“I’ve been searching so long for an answer is the song for my Life, I always come back to it. ❤️🔥

[@raidertripp]

They are all great, but I've Been Searchin' So Long is my favorite. The message, the slow build, the vocals, the strings, the majestic horns, the mystical feel and Terry's guitar solo are all peak Chicago. I've listened to it 1000's of times and it never gets old.

[@JohnSmith-mx8wp]

I'm having a real hard time picking a favorite, but agree, your choice is a good one. "Searching" opens up so dark and foreboding with those weird chords, but midway it's like the sun coming out. Two, two, two songs in one!

[@camgreer]

Leonid and Friends chose a great band to emulate and it's a lot of fun to hear them. For me, I keep returning to I'm A Man because Terry Kath was right on top of it. Listening to his complete abandon in his guitar and vocals is like following a whirlwind, expecting it to break apart at any second, but it never does. He was a force of nature and we were lucky to have him for the time he was with us.

[@dominickbuzzanco]

I've seen them twice and they were almost just as good live as they are in the videos. Stumbled on them a few years ago by chance and happy I did.

[@Ebolter1]

question 67 & 68

[@jackarmstrong1838]

HAving said all that, they use more voices and horns in their band to get the effect. Rick is correct

[@SteveM-gj2vy]

Was Terry better than Clapton? Yes, I know the Hendrix story. Some players didn't like his 'tone' but he always was perfect on the albums. Search for Chicago ISO guitar and the cat blows you away.

[@dopeymark]

Going to go see them in June in Virginia.

[@genevieveking8819]

Saturday in the Park IS iconic. I was in grade school and that song defined summers driving around in the car, picnics, beaches, and singing along.

[@steadypace747]

Well said. Chicago's "Saturday in the Park" (among others), Stevie Wonder's "Songs in the Key of Life" (My All Time Favorite Album...Period.), The Carpenter's (Pick One), The Jackson 5, The Commodores, Bread...These Great musicians, and some I've failed to mention, were the soundtrack of my childhood, and WHY I call the 1970s, the greatest and the "Last American Decade".

[@lennonjw9]

When I hear SITP, I can visualize the Chicago skyline as clear as the day I visited!

[@johnstevens886]

This song never fails to make me happier even in the worst of times. The only thing I would change is the ending. It sort of just muffles at the end.

[@arnaldomontes5616]

Lets face it, that early 70's lineup was phenomenal. All superb musician and 3 singers that could also harmonize. The songwriting collaboration from each member. Just a great great band.

[@SLagonia]

I'm glad you shouted Pete out for his bass playing - And the fact that after he left, they found Jason Scheff, another amazing bass player, is just spectacular. Bass work for Chicago is very underrated and it's a big part of why their music is so good.

[@TheJohnnyCotts]

I remember hearing they were having such a hard time trying to find a replacement for Peter Cetera (a bassist who could also sing tenor), they almost had to hire two separate people until Jason Scheff came on their radar.

[@SLagonia]

@@TheJohnnyCotts Very close to what happened. They actually decided to break the job up, and brought Jason in as a singer. He auditioned and they loved him right away, and asked him if he could play any instruments. He had his bass with him because he thought it was an audition for the bass player job, and they said they'd see if he could maybe play a little if he got the job. He practically begged them to let him play one song with them, just because he was a huge fan and always wanted to play with Chicago. They got about halfway through the song with him on bass and they just stopped and realized they had their man.

[@ronc4500]

Cetera really is such an underrated player. Also always loved the tone he got.

[@TrippingtheBrightFantastic]

@@SLagonia If I remember that story right, the song was "Just You 'n' Me."

[@davedaveson7341]

Horn section is a distinction of Chicago, James Pankow, Walter Parazaider and Lee Loughnane, how they incorporated it in the songs is absolutely brilliant!

[@RUfromthe40s]

that´s their main characterístic, the Horn section

[@paulailey5373]

I will always vote “Feelin Stronger Everyday”. Always. What an amazing song!!

[@jhnstn1]

Listening to a Quad 8 track tape of that on a regular 8-track was a treat. You hear all of the guitar parts isolated in the right front speaker. The Jumping Jack Flash riff really stood out on it.

[@signalflagsband2389]

​@@jhnstn1 😎

[@cpm1003]

100% agreed! The ending sends chills down my spine.

[@rallen256]

Rick is right on about Chicago!!! Saturday in the Park still gives me goose bumps after all these years. Love Chicago!!

[@joshuahek4564]

I don't think I could pick a greatest 70's Chicago song. They have so many great songs!

[@farrelanggaraksa2299]

Terry Kath, Peter Cetera, Robert Lamm, Walter Parazaider, Jimmy Pankow, Lee Loughnane, Danny Seraphine, & Laudir De Oliveira... One absolute unit.

[@johnreynoldsjr4157]

One of my all time favorite bands, not just in the 1970s

[@veeeforvendetta]

@@johnreynoldsjr4157 Mine also..

[@gregoire8376]

Monseur De Oliveira snuck in later. The other 7 were in Walt Parazaider's Mom's basement when they originally agreed to be a family and not break up or fire anyone.

[@Jimmypagesgreat]

Not to mention bill Champlain and Jason scheff, but they came along in the 80s.

[@CurtisLinder]

@@Jimmypagesgreat Jason's dad Jerry was Elvis' (Vegas Elvis) bass player - just read his autobiography - Way Down.

[@tempus_fugit7366]

Make Me Smile will always be my favorite Chicago tune! Terry Kath looked and sounded like an NFL linebacker, but gave so much emotion and soul to his singing and guitar playing. Damn shame he's gone.

[@paulfrantizek102]

Make Me Smile and Just You And Me are my two favorites. I'm A Man too, but that's a cover.

[@JPDay]

Came here to say the same, best Chicago track imo.

[@870expressmag]

His vocals in Make me Smile have a Ray Charles quality to it. Just awesome!

[@tempus_fugit7366]

@@870expressmag spot on!😁

[@MarkPeotter]

Make Me Smile, and Just You And Me. My favorites. Sometimes I think of them together like a medley.

[@d.k.9953]

"Old Chicago" was the bomb. Love the horns.

[@daryllaumann5132]

Chicago 1-2-3

[@jamesmcdermott1808]

Watching Terry play the guitar solo on 25 or 6 to 4 at Tanglewood in 1970 just blew me away, never saw anyone that rocked like he did, simply amazing.

[@big_fat_hen]

Yes, 25 or 6 to 4 has everything, just what a great song needs to have.

[@randyhenderson6166]

That Tanglewood solo is in my top 5 solos of all time. Simply amazing.

[@ammobass]

Complete authoritative command of the instrument.

[@darryldouglas6004]

Yes! I love how he starts it while they’re trying to fix the drum kit position and extends it till they are done. 😃

[@richardmarcroft6534]

I can’t argue with any of these but Introduction put me on the floor… permanently

[@vanessawinans4245]

"I've Been Searchin' So Long" has been my favorite Chicago song since I first heard it as a teen. It inspired me to restring my guitar as a bass so I could learn that great line! And the lyrics spoke to a young girl who was trying to figure out life. A fantastic song, and I'm glad someone else loves it as much as I do.

[@johnny_blades]

A lot of incredible Chicago songs, but "If You Leave Me Now" is pure genius in all facets. Hard to believe it's not acknowledged on this video. "Saturday In The Park" is right behind it!

[@marcgrossman980]

Agree, its a tremendous piece of song

[@jeffmckinnon5842]

I think he left it out; just to get comments! Leaving out one of the best songs of all time - is going to get commented on... cheerz!

[@christopherfasone4006]

I believe he said his picks were from Chicago IX from 1975. IYLMN came out in 1976

[@williamtobin7282]

@@christopherfasone4006 The caption read; Chicago's greatest song FROM THE 70'S...HENCE 1970-1979 So by leaving it out, I for one am outta here. Kinda like if Zeppelin left out Stairway.

[@kwl120365]

I’m not a fan of Chicago, but I’ve always said “If You Leave Me Now” is their one great song. Not making a statement about Chicago - good or bad, and everyone has different taste - but how he left that particular song off the list baffles me

[@michaelspencer2077]

Rick, I love your channel. Your commentaries are fantastic and you have got to be one of the most likable guys in the music industry. Thank you for all your work. It is much appreciated.

[@garydowns8364]

Dialogue (Part I & Ii) is easily one of their best songs and belongs at or near the top of the list. Leaving it off the greatest hits album is a huge oversight. The jangly guitar part, the call and response with the meaning of the lyrics is completely off the chart. The chords/harmonies aren’t as complex as some of their other songs but the beat throughout is absolutely phenomenal. Part I sets the stage for a part II that is an ever increasing crescendo that feels like a rocket launch. All the parts ratchet up in intensity until the roof blows off with an a cappella part that feels like a religious experience. Don’t forget to notice the meter changes in part II. Just a phenomenal song.

[@SoundlabStudios63]

It’s on greatest hits II, but for some reason it’s just part 2

[@evanm.jacobson1514]

I agree. Everything you said is on point. I still have the 45 in my basement. It’s a magical song! Thank you for the excellent analysis and love for great music.

[@toddclancy4442]

Totally agree...its their best hands down

[@jehl1963]

In the same vein, I'd also put "Introduction" and "A Song for Richard and his friends". Both were too long for popular airplay, but just cover soooo much musical territory so seamlessly.

[@braderlon16]

Dialogue is a perfect song

[@utha2665]

What I love about Chicago are their horn section, their tight vocals and tight rhythms. A timeless band with so many great songs.

[@talltulip]

I saw Danny Seraphine in concert last month, on his "Take Me Back to Chicago" tour. His entire set was almost exclusively all Chicago songs, and it was fantastic -- not just Danny, but also the rest of the band. His finale was "Feelin' Stronger Every Day." In fact, here is the entire set list: Street Player Old Days Call On Me Beginnings Movin' In You're the Inspiration improv jazz by pianist Does Anybody Know... Colour My World Just You and Me Make Me Smile My Girl Ain't Too Proud to Beg Hard For Me to Say I'm Sorry/Get Away Saturday in the Park 25 or 6 to 4 Feeling Stronger Every Day Danny had a heart attack last spring, so his original date was postponed until Nov. I'm so glad he is healthy again, especially well enough to get back to drumming and playing tour dates.

[@rayellinwood2882]

So cool

[@dgrblue4162]

Danny Seraphine is grossly represented, in the rock drummer annals.

[@joshuahardeman8676]

Glad to hear he's still killing it. He's one of my five drumming gurus. Brilliant.

[@brianvernon249]

What kid rock said about Danny @ the R&R HoF was just spectacular and made everyone laugh in good humor

[@talltulip]

@@brianvernon249 I am not familiar with that quote. Do you remember the gist?

[@martinexxxxxxx]

Saturday in the Park was one of my favorite songs in the 70s. I now feel like re-listening to CHICAGO. Thank you.

[@Kairon111161]

BEGINNINGS -- 100% -- even though it was recorded in 1969, it only hit the charts in 1971, and it my absolute favorite of theirs. After not hearing it for maybe two decades, about two years ago, I played the long 7 minute version about a hundred times one day, dancing and singing -- such an up, spirited, passionate song.

[@jsfmosch]

this song is FANTASTIC and made possible due to FM Radio at the time. They never thought that music that went past 3.4 minutes would work but it worked on FM Radio and this song was one that broke that paradigm.

[@andylinton2798]

Oh, yea, 100% agree!

[@joelliebler5690]

Love it ! Love It especially the long version with the maracas ending the song.

[@MJEvermore853]

@@joelliebler5690...yep! 👍

[@lionheartmerrill1069]

NO DOUBT ABOUT IT -- takes me back to 1970, 71 & my college relationship with my bombshell girlfriend.

[@Gitman333]

How can you pick the best. What a phenomenal contribution to music Chicago was.

[@gregbates2844]

@@thomastimlin1724 Agreed. Though Rick is obviously having fun with it, just to highlight how great so many of the songs were. In that sense, I really enjoyed his piece here. Watching Rick talk about this stuff is insanely enjoyable, in my opinion. :) But overall, I completely agree with your point. The talking heads in sports are forever launching into forced conversations about GOATs just to stimulate clicks and conversation. Such a waste of time. Jordan was great, Kareem was great, LeBron is great, etc. That's enough for me.

[@StephenConantJohnson]

Not an original Chicago song, but one of the best covers of any tune I've ever heard... their version of "I'm a Man" is for me one of the best listens possible. The opening bass lines, followed by the percussion, then the keyboard fades in and shortly after you get the killer guitar licks. Damn, it's an amazing job.

[@MayorOfFunkytown42]

And 3 lead vocals.

[@markmathus8182]

Absolutely!

[@GreatCircle360]

💯

[@sobfatrick]

He should do a show about the best cover songs of all time...that should definitely make the list

[@jonfoster6626]

Who wrote the original? Steve Winwood from the Spencer Davis Group?

[@philipchecchia2755]

Feeling stronger every day.. the bridge is just too good

[@bigjaygrizzly2389]

Thank you for this video. Chicago's first two albums are always overlooked and they're amazing. Terry Kath is criminally underrated

[@patrickhanly7458]

Kath is not underrated by players who grew up in the 70's. He's an icon.

[@Pooneil1984]

Feelin Stronger is what I love about so many longer rock songs of the time. The build up in layers that seeming is about to lose control at the end but pulls it all together. Radar Love is another example of this.

[@digimediamen]

I LOVE you're enthusiasm. It reflects your true love and appreciation of the music. I feel the same way every time I hear one of these classic Chicago songs.

[@stantheman5163]

Listening to Chicago just always puts a smile on my face. The depth and breadth of their playlist is just fantastic.

[@darwinswrong]

@@michellemonet4358 did you win a Gibson Trini Lopez Guitar too ?

[@vibezforall99]

chicago was insane 1969-1977. powerhouse of the era. 1980’s chicago is another pop beast in and of itself but the 1970’s original lineup is hard to top overall. great american band.

[@deantait8326]

Agreed. I lost interest after Terry’s passing. I wasn’t a fan of their ballads w/o him. Of course-their radio hits were so overplayed I grew tired of those songs. Of course they had 6-7 great writers, so …

[@MichaelM-to4sg]

Terry was the bands soul, Robert was the choreographer. When Terry passed, Robert went into deep depression. Somehow Peter took over the leadership which led to the bad bubblegum ballads.

[@wheatonna]

@@deantait8326 I had a photo of Kath on my wall and was heartbroken when I heard he was gone. But in fact by 1978 I was losing interest in the group.

[@TexasJackdaw]

On “Wishing you were here” … no one seems to sing backing vocals with dynamics anymore. This song is a great example of expressing dynamics in backups. Without using automation. A skill that is definitely waning.

[@louiebee6745]

Having The Beach Boys doing backup vocals on it doesn't hurt neither!👍👍

[@rohanroll]

Exactly. Out of the debate about the changing styles, the new trends, the lost musicality and the lack (or not) of talent in modern music, bands or records, I think that a key part is that THERE ARE NOT DYNAMICS ANYMORE. An acoustic guitar crescendo, a voice shivering first, then building up from the side of the stereo field... Those were the things that made 60s, 70s music the common ground and the solid base on which EVERYTHING STANDS UPON. In my very humble opinion.

[@louiebee6745]

@@rohanroll Well said, man!👏👏

[@frumexicano4112]

Agree. I disagree with Rick a little when it comes to the level of awesomeness of this song.

[@olafaalop1188]

The current music paradigm is tone deaf

[@comvoice]

“Wishing You Were Here” is my favorite from the 70’s. Gorgeous song.

[@mizmusiclorikeetakakaral8142]

Ohhh yeah, with those Beach Boys harmonies, what a collaboration, just gorgeous (and really captures the hollow feeling of missing someone). ❤

[@terryguire1321]

"Saturday in the Park" is 'the whole musical package' for sure! There's a song for everything on their greatest hits. Love it!

[@scattysafari7742]

I love the imagery of SITP. You can see the whole scene in your head, feel the warm sun & cool breeze. I love how old songs are a universe in three minutes.

[@mike60521x]

@@scattysafari7742 I agree - the picture that is painted in my head always leaves me in a great mood

[@maya_coqsalonga]

My go to karaoke song 😁

[@ezrakatzen7830]

We were lucky to have Chicago and Blood Sweat & Tears at their peaks at the same time. I loved them both. One was jazz/rock and the other was rock/jazz.

[@jod4343]

I have been fortunate to experience both bands live in concert.

[@ezrakatzen7830]

@@jod4343 As did I, in the same hall about 6 weeks apart.

[@pegfutrell4543]

When I think back on the two bands you mentioned, and all the others (Steely Dan, Little Feat, etc.) we were fortunate indeed to have such rich wonderful and original music. Never before and certainly not since. Blessed I tell you!

[@jasongpapini]

Same producer

[@GreatCircle360]

Stone fact, that. Literally my first albums. Even my stodgy parents appreciated the sophistication!

[@vt6020]

I’ve listened to Chicago since I was a little kid in the ‘70’s. My dad would throw the record on his turntable while he was working around the house. I’ve always loved “Introduction” on their first album. It has so much energy and the lyrics provide a background on the band and what they can do to entertain their audience. The horn lines are incredible and the whole band sounds like a well oiled machine.

[@DougGarrison-e3u]

Dialogue Part 1 and 2 is one Chicago song that every instrument shreds wall to wall with great vocal interchanges.

[@johnreno1615]

One of my favorites as well. The bass lines are of the most complex 70’s ever played.

[@dustylover100]

And wasn't on here, just like Harry Truman and Old Days.

[@michaelcoy8698]

Yes this! Catching the spirit of the times with Terry and Peter's best vocal together

[@prokastinatore]

Dialogue was damn good! Great tune! I totally agree!

[@fabrikk60]

The lyrics still hold water after all these years too. They say things that we still need to be reminded of.

[@djd31289]

You can't possibly listen to Make Me Smile or Saturday in the Park without feeling wonderful. Love this channel, love your take on all of this timeless, phenomenal music.

[@electricianron_New_Jersey]

It is pretty terrific.

[@RockyMtnRebecca]

The tempo change in "Feeling Stronger" has always been one of my favorite things ever. ♥

[@J_Angel]

The other important change they make at that point in the song is Lou plays the trumpet. At the beginning of the song he plays the flugelhorn, which is softer and slightly mellow. So when he goes to the trumpet it sounds brighter and more aggressive to match the tempo that finishes the song.

[@Killtheballmedia]

24:45 Feeling Stronger Everyday is my personal favorite. incredibly positive theme, every note holds your interest, etc. I’ve put the song on a loop many times while I’m working and it’s almost supernatural how it never gets old.

[@gregbates2844]

Amen. Great post. :)

[@nancy9478]

Mine too. Great summer memories are wrapped around that song.

[@paulastiles5507]

It's a wonderful rainy day song.

[@allenboland2481]

You're killing it Rick. Really appreciate your exuberance and love of music.

[@chrisose]

Picking "the best" Chicago song is a near impossible task.

[@kevinwalsh4652]

I heard it said once that when you are going through the absolute best times of your life, at that moment, you don't realize it until much later in life....case in point: around 1974, Providence Civic Center I got front row seats to Chicago, I was 16 years old, I'm a music fanatic and historian, from a pure technical perspective their music stands the test of time, my favorites are, beginnings, make me smile, 25 or 6 to 4, questions 67 & 68, dialogue, I'm a man, feeling stronger, and I've been searching....if you see this and want mind blowing Kath solo performance, KZbin Chicago live Tanglewood, MA "25 or 6 to 4", Terry shredding like Jimi said he could 🎶🎵💣🔥

[@gomogo2000]

Nope! It's flat out impossible. I've tried doing it many times, and always fail. I'm officially resigned to the fact that I can't do it...and that it's a good, no great...thing. 😀

[@robkunkel8833]

Unless it is just the first album. Not much got better afterwards.

[@kevinwalsh4652]

@@robkunkel8833 I'm watching 🏈 football, it's a commercial, after Kath died, I grew to loathe Cetera and his bubblegum garbage, he never could really write 🎵🎶 music

[@Jims_Camera_at_dawn]

So true.

[@slingblue9470]

Make Me Smile is BY FAR my favorite. Can't exactly say why, but it affects my soul in a beautiful way every time I hear it.

[@TheGoldbunny198711]

I recently watched on a loop the live performance of Chicago in Tanglewood from 1970, they played two of my favourite songs "25 or 6 to 4" and "I'm a Man". Terry's guitar playing is incredible.

[@Weshopwizard]

That guy was a monster!!!!

[@edlawn5481]

IMHO that Tanglewood Concert is the best concert video on YT. They were a machine in those days.

[@JK-g62]

Im a Mqn is badass!!!

[@keef7224]

Tanglewood also hosted incredible shows that year by The Who, Santana and Jethro Tull. 🎸

[@artkincell]

Tanglewood, for an outdoor place, has GREAT sound. I live about a hour from there. One of the greatest sounding performances I've ever heard there is John Denver, believe it or not.

[@vetteboy1982]

One of my all time favs. Have you seen the Russian band recreating Chicagos music ? They’re so good, even members of Chicago have endorsed them saying they themselves never sounded that good live. Give them a listen if you have a minute. Leonid and Friends. They even tour here in the US. Really remarkable.

[@TheCybertiger9]

yes Leonid and Friends

[@loucifer4205]

I like them better than Chicago

[@sess122]

25 or 6 to 4 was SO iconic, especially for every guitarist on the planet, from that driving chord progression to the guitar fills and solos...not to mention the great vocal work, horn lines, etc. This song and "Saturday In The Park" are my personal favorites. And as a long time songwriter, I completely agree with you on how hard it is to write really good up tempo songs.

[@bebecatanzaro9362]

Chicago still gives me goosebumps after all these years ❤ When they hit the airwaves, we played the hell outta those albums - a bazillion times!! Searching for an Answer is miraculous!

[@joedibble4199]

Thank you for comment on Peter’s bass playing. Terribly underrated, he was amazing!

[@fmmaj9noname332]

He rocks I'm a Man

[@prokastinatore]

I appreciate that Rick talks about ChicagoTheBand...One of the legendary groups who gave music a new face. I will never forget the early 1970th and before "If you leave me now" or "Hard to say I'm sorry"....Great job! Thank you so much!

[@Dr.TJ1]

To not even mention Questions 67 and 68 just blows my mind. The horn section plays non-stop throughout, the lyrics are great, and the horn section bridge (especially the ta, dat, datta, dat, da, tadat, dat, dat, da) is one of the slickest melodies ever written. That horn bridge gives me chills every time I hear it. BTW, Searchin So Long is a much more interesting song than the made for mass appeal tripe that is Saturday in the Park.

[@MrSilkySweat]

Questions 67 and 68 wasn't on their Chicago IX Greatest Hits album. Plus, it originally came out in '69...

[@Dr.TJ1]

@@MrSilkySweat Ah, the old argumentum ad populum. Just listen to the song and then try to tell me it's not a better crafted song than Saturday in the Park, Colour My World, or many others on the supposed greatest hits. In my opinion, the only song on the greatest hits album that can compete with Questions is Searchin So Long. And Rick opened the 1969 gate by talking about Beginnings.

[@MrSilkySweat]

@@Dr.TJ1 It's a good song, no doubt. Personally, I gravitate more towards the dirtier, harder stuff like Poem 58 or South California Purples.

[@astro7835]

Gotta put in 2 big thumbs up on this song. Love it, love it. Agree with your comments. Also great guitar fills, great bass lines, and vocals, too. And literally dozens of chords. That does not give points by itself, but it's not usual and you don't even notice that because it's so well written. And not on the same level, but for a short burst of craziness with great horns and vocals, I'm a fan of Free.

[@timwood6115]

@@MrSilkySweat Good points. Questions 67 and 68 and Beginnings were re-released as singles after Chicago II. As brilliant as CTA was, none of the songs were hit at the time. After the band had hits from Chicago II, the record company released those two songs as singles.

[@TheClassicalSauce]

Holy Hell, what a great group of musicians. Total serendipity that these dudes got together.

[@kinochdotcom]

Feelin Stronger Everyday is the song that got me through Covid the beginning of 2022. Speaking of Beginnings...I know it says 70s and I've Been Searching So Long is quickest to put me in tears, it's only just a start....Beginnings is one of the greatest songs of all time

[@johnboutet7560]

There's five songs that really have a claim: 25 or 6 to 4, Saturday in the Park, I've Been Searching So Long, Feeling Stronger Every Day and Make Me Smile. You could throw Old Days, Alive Again, Does Anybody Know What Time it Is, and Dialogue in the second tier. Their soundtrack is stuck in my head forever, and I love it.

[@joepawlosky7911]

Wow Old Days & Alive again are two more of my favorites, play them all the time. Going into the 80’s & Chicago 17, Prima Donna another great musical combination they are made of. Along Comes a Woman also has great horns, drums, base guitar and Peters voice. Luv it!

[@spencer9836]

Does anybody know what time it is can be tier one and then everyone will be happy

[@walleyeman50]

Love the Beatles, love Journey , love the Eagles, but Chicago is the band of my life. Greatest time period, greatest memories, of love and laughter.

[@celticblood4010]

Totally agree. Same for me.

[@bladeofzorro1932]

It has to be 25 or 6 to 4. Not just the brilliance of the individuals but put them all together and WOW! that song blew me away when I first listened to it, and it still does now. Everyone in the band compliments each other and for its time it was cutting edge. That recognisable riff and those horns. The galloping drums and bass. Nothing comes close.

[@kimmitchell7239]

The whole song is just soooo cool! The musical rifts and the change in beats and the strange words! LOVE IT!!

[@souldavidthompson4854]

I think Wishing You Were Here is on par with Brian Wilson's In My Room or God Only Knows. The songwriting and production never failed to transport me to a special place when I was a teen in the '70s, and still does.

[@metathoughts732]

The Beach Boys sang on the backroound vocals on Wishing You were Here.

[@paulastiles5507]

"Feeling Stronger Every Day" is also amazing.

[@souldavidthompson4854]

@@paulastiles5507 Yes! Inspired songwriting. One of the best to lift me up 👍

[@metathoughts732]

@@paulastiles5507 for sure. I thought of that after I poster but definitely top 10

[@LP5369GT]

This is why Chicago concerts were awesome. Every tune was a familiar friend, some a pleasant surprise you haven't seen in a while.

[@DianeLake-sw3ym]

You saw Chicago in concert? so did I. It was a great one. They were so good.

[@GeraldWalker-p6l]

Likewise when I saw him live I was stupefied at how incredibly perfect they sounded almost better than the albums

[@jerryp514]

What I like about Rick - he’s a music insider, but he’s a FAN. He’s so fun to geek out with, and man am I geeking out from these most excellent songs from my childhood.

[@ChipTingle]

Agreed! Best of both worlds.

[@gregbates2844]

Rick, I'm being a little hyperbolic, but not a lot. Watching you analyze and enjoy these songs is almost as much fun as listening to them. :) You "get" so many of the subtle nuances that we who love the music also get. And you find so many little nuggets that many of us never noticed before. I could watch these videos on loop forever. Great music, great analysis, and most important, the obvious great love for the music. Thank you forever for bringing these to us.

[@mrsgstd]

Impossible to pick one but "If You Leave Me Now" is often forgotten. Great song, great arrangement!

[@RG-hf4et]

#1 hit around the world. 🌎

[@jeffmckinnon5842]

My wife, who passed, over 20 years ago, said it was her favorite song ever. I would play it on an acoustic guitar for her, and she would cry. Maybe because I played it so badly! It was "our song" She always made me dance to it.

[@TheLoveSignGuy]

The crescendo in "Searching" gives me goosebumps every time.

[@vincelucas5722]

Terry Kath was so underrated. What a talent - - voice and guitar! I saw Chicago the summer of 1970 at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City and was blown away. I played drums and was so impressed with Danny Seraphine's playing. What a great band!

[@1pianorock]

Terry Kath, who Jimmy Hendrix called the best guitarist he ever heard 🏆

[@jakemitchell1671]

Why do you think Terry was "underrated?" Musicians the world over recognized his talent. Some of the most iconic guitarists mentioned him as one of the best. As a member of a "horn band" he was never going to get the type of spotlight attention afforded to guitarists in 3- and 4-piece bands. But Terry's talent has been acknowledged since Chicago put our their first successful albums. Terry Kath was never going to be featured as "THE" main player, because Chicago was a multi-faceted, multi-talented group. I miss him greatly, and only our imagination can lead us to what might have been.

[@cooper2270]

Right on. Underrated?!? Underrated by who? Lol

[@veryfriendlyok]

Color my World is part of the make me smile Suite

[@veryfriendlyok]

I agree. I think Chicago Vll is when the band was in their best, the bands climax, imho

[@sherryheim5504]

Chicago is one of my all time favorite bands. I have seen them live so many times I can't count and they never disappoint, tight and spot on every time. I would have a hard time picking a favorite song because each one has something special to offer. Their production was the best.

[@terryjones7616]

My wife and I were married in 1978, I was a music major vocal principle. I sang 'Colour My World' in the wedding. Beautiful song...but the main reason I chose it was it only had 39 words. I knew I'd be nervous and was afraid I'd forget the words. I hope everyone has a special song from their wedding. This is ours.

[@timwood6115]

Frank Sinatra wanted to record Colour My World, but wanted it to have a second verse. James Pankow didn't write a second verse because he couldn't bring himself to mess with the song. Good call.

[@mikemaegly2521]

Sorry. I just found this. I played this album every day and drummed along when I was in junior high school. Danny shaped my music forever.

[@wadefinklestein6013]

I love watching Rick love a song.

[@Dethfeast]

One thing that gets overlooked a lot is their 3 lead singers of Robert Lamm, Peter Cetera and Terry Kath. Three different sounds, all could easily carry the lead.

[@edlawn5481]

The harmonies were so good, especially on "All Is Well".

[@phishphan5732]

James Pankow was good too !

[@jhnstn1]

what's this world coming to is a fine example of that.

[@jhnstn1]

@@casparuskruger4807: He has a man crush on Kath and Seraphine. 😎

[@marcweissman5752]

@@casparuskruger4807 very weird especially since Saturday in the Park is his #1 song and Bobby sings lead on it. Strange indeed?

[@joshuaconnelly779]

Break down on feeling stronger everyday is what made me a Chicago fan. It’s pure magic. Peters voice mixed with that guitar tone spectacular.

[@georgelincoln5041]

You left a Chicago concert on cloud 9 in the 70s - singing all their hit songs on the drive home. Top five of best bands I've ever seen live.

[@FreeManOutpost]

Danny Seraphine is fantastic! One of the most underrated drummers ever. It’s a shame that he was let go.

[@jhamler1]

Seriously. His beats and fills just hit different. Four on the floor jazzrock. The other Dude, whoever he was, that played drums with Blood Sweat and Tears, though? That dude coulda sat on that Chicago drum stool too

[@kennethmills5470]

It was the END for Chicago as we Know them

[@ronc4500]

@@jhamler1 do you mean Bobby Colomby?

[@daveyelverton6287]

Respectfully, I believe his tempo issues and overplaying didn't fit where the band wanted to go. JMO. Still love his playing, particularly on Chicago 2. I have spent countless hours learning that stuff and know every note!

[@PlymouthVT]

Fantastic drummer.

[@greatnorthern706]

Feeling Stronger Every day has the best groove of all of them. The horn parts always give me chills.

[@jasontobola7916]

Man when I hear CHICAGO I think about the old days !!! I had my whole life ahead of me !!! Love it !!! 😊

[@frankd1682]

Rick’s reference to Leonid & Friends is on point. What Chicago did with 7 band members, Leonid uses twice that. They are a great tribute to Chicago, but what Chicago produced over 50 years ago is simply amazing!

[@jamesparker1063]

not fair.....L/F recreates "live", what Chicago did, "studio", which (obviously) needs more personell, to duplicate....

[@craigwillms61]

Make Me Smile is the quintessential Chicago track. It is often overlooked. It encompasses everything great about Chicago. Leonid and Friends doing Chicago covers made me revisit the band and their quality covers make me appreciate what a great band Chicago is/was.

[@Lhuminon]

Ballet For A Girl In Buchanan is Chicago's best piece of music, in my opinion. Starting with the expanded version of Make Me Smile, transitioning eventually into Color My World and more instrumental sections to wind up back at the great ending of Make Me Smile. Phenomenal.

[@Greg-vq8ct]

👍

[@gordongood]

I’ve always loved James Pankow’s trombone playing. He has such great finesse in his upper register (“Saturday in the Park”) but can also belt it out in the lower register. He’s a hero.

[@scottr6394]

Questions 67 and 68 we're great

[@GdeMarco787]

Right on! Good call!

[@bobmoffatt5529]

The first note of the bone solo in Beginnings!

[@horacecomegna335]

Plus he’s a great composer!

[@TheLordLeviticus]

I feel your enthusiasm Rick, your commentary takes on a whimsical journey...you're the GOAT

[@drumlover1687]

"Introduction" is a phenomenal piece of music.

[@ga0425]

From beginning to end. Indeed!

[@michaelhavas87]

Terry's Opus. 4 Genres. The king is dead. Long live the king!

[@smitlag]

I think James Pankow wrote most of their horn arrangements. It is a great lesson as to why keyboards do not do as great of a job on horn parts as opposed to real horns. Dynamically the three players are spread over a couple octaves instead of clustered into a triad. Sonically this is a huge difference in the way a chord sounds. The 70s had a lot of horn parts which added incredible warmth to the already good writing skills bands had.

[@christophercrommett]

Pankow indeed did virtually all of the arrangements for the horns. And, actually, sometimes they're clustered tightly together, other times they're spread over a couple of octaves.

[@smitlag]

@@christophercrommett it's interesting in the way that Chicago and Blood, Sweat and Tears wrote their horn parts. What a majestic sound that has been lost to most modern music.

[@dapper763]

I think I’ve Been Searching So Long will be my favorite Chicago song of the 70s. A family member told me a story of him being deployed in Germany in the 70s and being terribly sick. When he was getting treated, that song came on the radio and brightened him up. The first Chicago song he ever heard, and he was a fan for life. It’s incredible, the power of music. It knows no borders. He knew little English at the time, but that language barrier didn’t stop him at all from enjoying that great song.

[@bikeman9419]

Thank you Rick, finally there is someone out there that gets as excited about Chicago as I do. I bought their first album in 1969 when I was 11 years old. I used my lawn mowing money to buy it. I have been hooked for 55 years. I used to be in the school band so I understand a little about how music is put together. The complexity of their music sucks you in and doesn’t let you go. People used to say that Chicago’s songs run a little long, I say that many of their songs aren’t long enough. It’s like making love to a wonderful woman, you never want it to end. I have never been bored listening to Chicago. I believe that it was Devine intervention that brought these musicians together. The song “I’ve been searching so long” is extremely religious. If I ever get to heaven, I hope Chicago’s music is piped in. I totally believe that those little UFO spacecrafts are hanging around just to listen to Chicago’s greatest hits on FM.

[@ricricciardi7086]

I feel the same but I didn't hear Robert lamms name one time he wrote almost all the first few years of Chicagos songs. And Rick's favorite song was written and song by R.L. he gets no respect up and down the comments section either I can't understand it.

[@maxcactus7]

Feelin' Stronger Every Day is one of my favorite songs of all time!! Makes me feel fantastic inside and saved my insanity after my divorce. Peter C's voice was utter perfection on that track. Chicago's brass in all their early work will forever make them one of my all time favorite bands. Thank you so much for this amazing video, Rick!!