Why Peter Cetera is Pop Music's Natural | Pop Fix | Professor of Rock

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#PeterCetera #Chicago #80sPop #70sPop #Pop
Peter Cetera. His glorious, unmistakable, tenor moves us with emotionally rich conviction. Peter sings songs from the heart, and we feel his music in our hearts. He’s been one of my favorite vocalists since I can remember discovering music and if pushed I would say Peter Cetera is on a very short list of the greatest voices and interpreters in the history of popular song. I think he would’ve been the top in any era be it the rock era or even back in the days of the big bands and Tin Pan Alley. His voice is filled with pure conviction and undying affection. No one can sing a love song better Than Peter Cetera. An original member of the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame band Chicago, Peter Cetera was with Chicago on 18 albums- singing lead vocals on most of their LONG list of celebrated hits, before embarking on a solo career in 1984. I also want to say that One Good Woman is another incredible song from Peter’s solo career that deserves recognition. We will cover that one down the road as well.
#5….From the Karate Kid Part 2 Soundtrack “Glory of Love”
Peter kicked off his solo career with a bang- a #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100. The lyrics for “Glory of Love” were written by Cetera, with help from his ex-wife, Diane Nini. David Foster wrote the song’s musical arrangement.. When “Glory of Love” was finished, Peter was convinced that it was going to be big, but his enthusiasm was curbed, temporarily, by an immediate setback.
“Glory of Love” was originally written for the movie Rocky IV, but Sylvester Stallone passed on the song, and chose “Hearts on Fire” by John Cafferty for the training montage in Rocky IV. That song peaked at #76 on the Billboard Hot 100, a far cry from the chart topping success of “Glory of Love”.
#4- “25 or 6 to 4” one of 3 singles from Chicago’s self-titled second album release in 1970.
People generally refer to Peter Cetera as a balladeer, but there are many tracks where he demonstrates his rock chops- especially on his blistering lead vocal performance on “25 or 6 to 4”. It is even more impressive when you consider that Peter was forced to sing the vocal in the recording studio while his jaw was still wired shut from the broken jaw he suffered during an altercation he had at Dodger Stadium defending his Cubs against angry Dodger fans after a Cubs victory.
“25 or 6 to 4” spotlights the superb musicianship of Chicago- with their powerful horn section, and an incredible guitar solo by the late Terry Kath. Kath was a revered guitarist, and a catalyst that the band members referred to as the glue of Chicago.
#3- “If You Leave Me Now” First #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 for Chicago in ’76, and one of their biggest selling singles- with more than 1.5 million units sold. It also rose to #1 in the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, Ireland, South Africa, and the UK.
This classic tearjerker was written by Cetera, and truly ushered in his natural ability to project the anguish of a pleading lover with a moving vocal performance, that is one for the ages.
“If You Leave Me Now” showcases Peter’s range and versatility to change from the lower octave to a higher range with great control. and like I said, puts Peter in the highest echelons of interpreting a love song
#2- “You’re the Inspiration” from Chicago 17- the band’s biggest selling album- with over 6 million units sold around the world.
It was the 3rd single released from Chicago 17 in early ’85- climbing to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Cetera’s vocal fits the joyful elation of the song, so much so that it was bestowed an honor in the ’Most Performed Songs Category’ by the American Society of Composers and Publishers, otherwise known by the acronym ASCAP in ’86.
#1- “Hard Habit to Break”- another smash from Chicago 17- released as the 2nd single from the album in the summer of ’84.
Co-written by John Lewis Parker & Steve Kipner- who also penned Olivia Newton-John’s monster hit “Physical” and Christina Aguilera’s irresistible “Genie in a Bottle."
It’s one of a kind. The dynamic combination of Peter Cetera and Bill Champlin created one of the most outstanding dual vocal performances in popular music. It sure would’ve been great to have had more of those special recordings with Peter & Bill: I really can’t say enough about it.

[@jackfuqua8789]

How is the guy not the biggest thing on KZbin yet like omg

[@ChristopherSmithNYC]

For real. Content is king here and Professor of Rock rules.

[@DanieVargas]

As soon as I found a video of his, I was UTTERLY HOOKED!! I thought _I_ was the only serious audiophile around... I guess we are few and far between...

[@pappagetti]

He is the biggest thing.... To the cool kids. **** everyone else.

[@jackfuqua8789]

Like I’m only 22 but I love classic rock and I saw his stuff floating around but never clicked on it and then decided to give it a shot one day and wish I would’ve sooner

[@ladystrange7791]

Glad to find others exist😀

[@georgeweber8237]

Went through high school with Peter and he was one of the most likable young men I had the privilege of knowing. Since we are both 75 I have met many. Spent an afternoon with him in summer 2018 and found after all these years he is still the consummate gentleman. Happy to say I know him and thrilled for him for all the successes. Truly deserved. Thanks for the video.

[@84koolkid]

Always wanted to meet peter, I'm from Chicago and love the band Chicago always pretended as a teen that I was peter

[@luisramos3427]

That's a privilege! One of the best vocalist, composer and bass player out there and indeed a Great Humble Gentleman.

[@lamarravery4094]

God sure blessed Peter with so much talent. There'll never be another voice like his. He has always been my favorite singer since I heard him on the car radio singing Hard to Say I'm Sorry when I was 10.

[@HuntChicagoHomes]

mendel catholic prep!

[@josephstuhr6608]

Terry Kath, one of the most under-rated guitarist of all time

[@oig40203]

I think he is more unknown than underrated.

[@gbaker9295]

He was a great improvisational guitarist. Jam guitarist

[@erose964]

Chicago ceased being Chicago when Kath died. They became a straight top 40 group.

[@Axess-sv8nq]

Terry Kath was the 'heart of Chicago'. Cetera was the pop music of Chicago.

[@chrisclermont456]

Terry Kath was a monster guitarist. He was a favorite of Jimi Hendrix. What does that tell you?

[@petertavella4752]

Chicago’s first hit and Cetera’s best vocal performance “Questions 6768”.This song is a masterpiece.

[@JeanieD]

“Hard Habit To Break” is a song that always makes the hairs on my arms stand up.

[@sd80mac]

Right!? Such an amazing song. Is it a ballad? Is it a rocker? Is it an epic? Yes.

[@pierceelyhibionada342]

Bill Champlin's "I'm ADDICTED to You BABY" Made my Hair Stand Up.

[@lamarravery4094]

One of their best songs and they have so many great songs.

[@henryvillaflor]

That is why Peter Cetera is my favorite singer He's not only a great singer but also a great composer.

[@VIDEOHEREBOB]

Cetera has a one-of-a-kind, high frequency vocal timbre, instantly recognizable. Great singer.

[@pmcgee78]

All Cetera songs when he was in Chicago are pure gold, even the Jason Scheff songs with Chicago were good

[@robbchastain3036]

Feelin' Stronger Every Day is still my favorite Peter Cetera vocal.

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

Yeah watch the ORIGINAL VID on YT at their Colorado Compound

[@Pink_Freud_Obscured_By_Crowds]

@@AffordableEscapesShreveport that's 4000 acre Caribou Ranch in Nederland, CO where Chicago band manager James Guercio built his recording studio which was eventually used by over 150 recording artists. Chicago recorded VI thru XI there. Famous recording sessions from there started with Joe Walsh Barnstorm, Rick Derringer Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo. Elton did 3 albums here, Caribou, Captain Fantastic, and Rock of the Westies, Beach Boys were on hand recording their own songs like Good Timin' when they and Captain and Tenille joined Elton on Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me in 1974. Earth Wind and Fire That's The Way of the World in 1975, America recorded Hideaway in 1976, Supertramp did Give a Little Bit in 1977, and the studio at Caribou Ranch was in operation being used by Amy Grant on 4 of her albums up to 1985 when the studio caught fire which caused so much damage it was rendered useless and never used again.

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

@@Pink_Freud_Obscured_By_Crowds YASSS! Exactly right! Amazing to think of all the singers that went thru that place. I believe I heard that Michael Jackson was there awhile as well. Yep i knew about Elton. But don't mention Guercio to me- he funneled a ton of their money to fund that compound! Among other things.. They were pissed!

[@natashatomlinson4548]

Me too but “ Lowdown” is a close second.

[@MrPrice2U]

"Saturday in the park, 25 or 6 to 4, Call on me, Call on me, Does anybody really know what time it is...." are unforgettable gems. P.s.Listening to 70's Chicago reminds me that we need more horns!

[@chrisschrecker5497]

Agreed. The original band was unique. Even the post Terry Kath David Foster albums were tolerable. They lost me around 1990 with the Twenty-One release. Now they’re not even a decent cover band of themselves. Check out Leonid and Friends. They bring to life the old Chicago catalog better than the current Chicago lineup does in my opinion. Take care and be safe out there.

[@algallego]

@@chrisschrecker5497 Oh, my!!!! You've discovered Leonid, too???? Pure MUSIC genius, that ensemble!!!!!!!!

[@darrellrobinson9354]

All songs NOT produced by David Foster.

[@loganmpe7559]

@@algallego I'm going to look up "Leonid" now, you've planted a bug for me so I hope you're right! Thanks

[@henryvillaflor]

Wish someday Peter Cetera will comeback to Chicago to hear and wrote beautiful songs again

[@alexandrialubomir4805]

80s school dance...Cetera’s voice was the soundtrack

[@crimfan]

It was with "Colour My World" too, which is on one of the early albums. The "pop" Chicago was always there.

[@terrystowers6085]

@@crimfan I was born in November of 1971. Color My World is one of the first tunes I can remember. The flute solo still gives me goosebumps at age 50.

[@thaboomer53]

Part of the amazing attraction of Peter Cetera was the fact that when you hear him sing your favorite song, it immediately takes you to a time and a place that no other song can. And it's just a good the hundredth time as it was the first time you heard it on the radio. A good performer can do that.

[@WarofThoughts]

Amy Grant too

[@crimfan]

One of my high school math teachers was in The Exceptions. He said Peter was clearly *the* musician in that group and they all knew it. When The Exceptions split my teacher was cool with it... he wanted to head back to college anyway.

[@lamarravery4094]

Great story!

[@MIKECNW]

Never heard that band on the radio but I've heard their stuff on the internet. Pretty good.

[@michaelrochester48]

Peter Cetera had a knack for finding great people to sing with him in a solo career. Amy Grant, and Agnetha from Abba were phenomenal partners for him

[@lamarravery4094]

Chaka Khan was a great duet partner as well.

[@stephencampo6598]

Remember The Feeling is sadly overlooked a lot.

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

That song is a WINNER! Peter & Bill Champlin were a Fantastic Duo- their voices blended perfectly! ONCE IN A LIFETIME waz also an awesome Sound for these 2 together! Foster knew it!

[@bwm5150]

Definitely, always been my favourite Chicago and Cetera track!

[@Kiedad]

My favorite song on 17! Why was it not released as a single?

[@lamarravery4094]

​@@KiedadThey already had 4 singles that were released from 17 and all were top 20 hits.

[@96capricelt1tan]

Love Peter/Chicago , don't forget Peter on 'I've been searching ' (for so long )

[@conniebauer4128]

Your story about literally jumping up and down when Casey Kasem announced Glory of Love as #1 made me smile because I did the exact same thing four years earlier when Hard To Say I'm Sorry reached the top of the charts.

[@lamarravery4094]

I remember the summer of 86, you would hear the Glory of Love on the radio a lot and I loved it, loved that song and I would also root for that song on the weekly top 40 to get to the number one spot. Then in the fall, the Next Time I Fall was on its course to hit number one as well, what a great time to be a Peter Cetera fan.

[@roberthayden3741]

Despite what is in Wikipedia, Terry Kath did not leave the stage during live performances of "If You Leave Me Now". Terry played bass guitar and Peter played a 12 string acoustic for their live performances.

[@gregsnyder4268]

Great list...I love “Along Comes A Woman”

[@gregoryreed4866]

Literally can listen to it 10x in a row

[@vikkknasc]

It is the best song!

[@coolcat6303]

Chicago 17 was a Pop masterpiece but “Along Comes A Woman” was the one that always grabbed me the most.

[@julesw1403]

@@gregoryreed4866 I used to do just that. I wore that cassette out. Had to buy the CD. Then the iTunes download.

[@lavendermemorylane]

My most favorite singer, ever. And I love Steve Perry, both for AMAZING VOICES!! Peter Cetera played at my college when he was still with Chicago, and I fell in love!! LOL! I'll never forget how he looked when he showed up on the stage. Top to bottom all white, and looked like a Prince in a fairy tale!! And started to sing with THAT VOICE!! O.M.G..

[@PhilliptBates]

Peter is one of a kind. I saw him live a few years ago (as well as years ago with Chicago) and I was amazed at how great his vocals sounded live and that they really haven't dropped off all that much with age. He is such a joy to listen to. And I love that you gave his bass playing props... he's a master.

[@damonappel]

I saw him live 3--4 years ago, performing outdoors at a casino stage in Toledo. While I would've loved to hear him play more of his solo stuff, I can affirm that he and his band played Chicago songs (25 or 6 to 4 comes to mind) FAR better than Chicago can in concert...and I'm comparing to the last time I bothered to go to a Chicago concert, over 20 years ago. It's not just the vocals, which are so important, but also the bass playing and the timing. Cetera, even in his 70's, knows how to rock and how to croon.

[@maryk6039]

Love Peter! One of the greatest vocalist there ever was!!

[@yefunehdavid1005]

I'm a product of the 80's, and I know exactly what you are talking about. Well said.

[@mikkoluiro9968]

There's simply no one like Peter Cetera!

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

😁😁😁😁😁😁😊

[@lamarravery4094]

He's the Roy Hobbs of pop music.

[@ksglfr1]

He’s got a song from his solo career called “Have You Ever Been In Love” that is absolutely fabulous!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I love that song. It’s a tearjerker.

[@lamarravery4094]

And that was a cover song from the early 80s from Leo Sayer. But that song was made for Peter.

[@8L3553D]

Paris wrote it and perform it best.

[@cassityart7001]

I loved the early soulful sound and vocal noodling of Peter during the early Chicago years. But growing up though the 70’s - ‘80s I needed the soul of the big solid sound that only the band could achieve. Never related to the ballads of the 80s. Amen.

[@ajackson5955]

The mention of Joe “Bean” Esposito is the kind of thing that makes this channel great! This man does his research.

[@gregoryreed4866]

My top 5 Chicago: 5)Hard habit to break 4)you're the inspiration 3)hard to say I'm sorry 2)along comes a woman 1)if you leave me now Top 5 solo 5)after all 4)restless heart 3)the next time I fall 2)one good woman 1)even a fool can see

[@michaeltrujillo8494]

STREET PLAYER! Cetera and his funkyness came out on that one. That’s my car jam.

[@SoniaMVI]

Peter Cetera is my favorite singer. His voice was the soundtrack in every single moment in my life. My favorite album is World Faling Down. When I bought this album I listened to it for many weeks. I went to his gig in 2013 in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

[@damonappel]

World Falling Down is such an underrated album, and yes: his best. I first picked it up years ago from a discount bin. Such an amazing gem. 'The Last Place That God Made' is the standout for me, but there are so many emotional behemoths on that album.

[@lamarravery4094]

The last studio album he did, Another Perfect World was another great album. He couldn't hit the high notes like before, but he still sounded great. I remember bringing that cd to work in 2001, years after Peter was on the radio, some girl I worked with asks me if that's Peter Cetera. We hadn't heard from in in awhile, but yet we still remember that voice.

[@BucsFan9999]

After watching the David Foster documentary on Netflix, I have been listening to 80s Chicago like crazy. Brilliantly crafted music.

[@Giminey]

David Foster- The Hit Man.

[@coolcat6303]

That was a great documentary. My fav part was when they interviewed the members of Chicago & they explained why they resented Foster so much during that time. Even Foster admits that he was difficult to work with. But, like he said, it's hard to argue with all those hits that put them back on the charts.

[@michellec-i9415]

I became a fan in 1982at age 11. I grew up listening to his voice and it wasn’t until I became an adult that I went back and listened to his entire catalog with Chicago. I was floored when I realized that the same singer that sang “Love Me Tomorrow” also sang “If You Leave Me Now” 6 years prior! He was and will be the golden voice of our time!

[@MsDee_777]

"Hard Habit to Break" & "Wishing You Were Here" total favs! 🎶🎵 David Foster is a musical genius.

[@LameWolff]

Yeah, the ladies love Cetera. And if you love the ladies, by default you love Cetera. "Maurice" In truth I have to say I've always enjoyed listening to him.

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

YEP!!!!

[@gmwforce1972]

I forgot that line until you said it! How awesome! Wasn’t it from a beer commercial? Maybe Rolling Rock?

[@lamarravery4094]

@@gmwforce1972 Heineken.

[@uscgwife1]

1st of all, thank you for celebrating Peter’s amazing work of music. He was definitely listened to in my house growing up. I have sisters 12 and 13 years older than me and so I remember Chicago being played with hits 25 or 6 to 4 as well as If You Leave Me Now. But, there is one song that you left out mentioning that he wrote where The Beach Boys collaborated while Guercio got them back on touring. Wishing You Were Here is the most beautiful and definitely haunting song that seems to be under appreciated when he wrote this song below his vocal levels and Terry sang it in such a way that was remarkably done.

[@loganmpe7559]

Great information, thank you for sharing!

[@johneoff707]

OMIGOSH! "Hard Habit to Break" is my favorite as well. Honorable mention: "What You're Missing" and "Love Me Tomorrow" from his Chicago days and from his solo days "Big Mistake" and "You Never Listen to Me," the latter featuring David Gilmour on guitar and Guy Pratt on bass and I believe featured on an episode of Miami Vice.

[@edklein9415]

You Never Listen To Me is a GREAT song.... I turn that sucker up when it comes on when I listen to that album / CD / whatever!!!

[@lincolnadams83]

My Peter 5vr....Okay easy ones have been taken sooooo....gotta dig a little deeper here. And frankly I landed on 10. So if you get through the list to number one thanks for reading! And thanks for the great post on Pete! 10. Question 67 & 68 (Chicago Transit Authority) - The first time the world was supposed to hear Pete's soaring voice and Terry's soaring guitar that as Terry described on the Chicago IV live album was "their first bust, hit-bound single, that never was a bust hit-bound single." A great pop song of the day that features Pete's voice before he would begin singing with his signature clenched jaw. And it did really effect his vocal deliver and slightly alter his tone. Here his voice is rounder and a bit more open and breathy. 9. Chains (Chicago 16) - If "Hard for me to Say I'm Sorry" reintroduced the world to Pete's ballad voice, Chains is the counter weight that reminds everyone of Pete's rock vocal range. 8. I Remember the Feeling (Chicago 17) - Arguably the best ballad on Chicago 17 ( yeah, I know, I know) 7. Happy Man (Chicago VII)- first straight-up Chicago ballad (Just You and Me has that acid jazz interlude so it doesn't qualify) 6. Have You Ever been in Love (World Falling Down)- a deep ballad from Pete's top to bottom strongest solo album 5. 25 or 6 to 4 (Chicago)- The first time the world actually heardPete's soaring tenor and Terry's soaring guitar 4. No Tell Lover (Chicago Hotstreets)- This is the first time Pete's voice would really start to sound like 80's Pete- and the bass is such a great sub hook that it's a flawless pop song in it's own right. 3. Dialogue Parts 1 and 2 (Chicago V ) - This one is in for me because it's the total package of Cetera's abilities - effortless vocals and simply some of the best kick-ass funky, jazzy rock bassery you're going to hear. Part 2 is literally one of the best in your face rock jams ever put to vinyl! "We can Change the World! WE CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN!!!" 2. Hard Habit to Break (Chicago 17) - A powerful nuanced and mature Cetera voice. I've always wondered what Terry would have sounded singing with Pete on this rather than Bill) This really is the perfect power pop ballad. 1. (I've been) Searchin' So Long (Chicago VII) - a ballad with hair on fire soul and rock and roll at the end. Cetera RAW! This is the complete Cetera vocal range!! From the first time I heard it at age 5. It completely changed my life! Gives me gooesbumps to this moment!

[@davidbakerscuba]

Stay The Night was the first Cetera/Chicago song I remember hearing. I was 12 when it came out and was getting into girls. That song seemed naughty at that age and I loved it. That chorus of the words “Stay the night, there’s room enough here for two” was so cool.

[@gmwforce1972]

Same here (being 12/13 and the girls lol). Remember when Cetera tries to cop a feel in the video? However, for me it was the first time I saw them in a video. Then I went back and realized all the many songs I liked in the past was Chicago. They’ve been my favorite group ever since.

[@julesw1403]

Great tune.

[@dustylover100]

My favorite video. Stay The Night was so cool.

[@shpgrl1026]

Such a good pick. Peter Cetera has been and always will be one of my favorite singers. His voice is incredible. And you nailed it, no one sings love songs better than him. His solo album Faithfully was incredible too.

[@lamarravery4094]

Faithfully came from his One Clear Voice album.

[@denisereiland8458]

He’s my number one favorite singer! He has this tone, pitch that is other worldly! He’s underrated for his bass playing. He has not only a distinct voice but his bass playing is distinctive, especially on some of those Chicago deep cuts! If you listen close you can hear the influence Paul McCartney had on him.

[@flavellinator]

Not many remember "Street Player," a super cool funky tune done at the end of Cetera's tenure with Chicago... it was a good one! I remember most "If You Leave Me Now," as it was my first slow dance ever in 7th Grade. Ah, the "wonder years!"

[@katemaloney4296]

I don't know if it's on youtube, but I recall seeing Chicago perform "Street Player" on SNL, and they blew it out of the water.

[@janetlauer8382]

They played "Street Player" on the Merv Griffin show...must have been 1978 because Terry wasn't with them and it was before Donny Dacus. The video's on YT.

[@waltersimmons946]

@@janetlauer8382 Street Player, came out in 1979, Dacus is the guitar player on that album CHICAGO 13, the follow up album to HOT STREETS, Dacus only did those 2 albums with the band and was fired afterwards, Chris Pinnick was their next guitar player but was not a member of the band, the Merv Griffin performance was probably in 1980, during Chicago 14 period, Ceteras tenure didnt end till 1985, remember Chicago 17.?

[@najibkhan7299]

Chicago 17 was just a faultless, dazzling album. One of my all time favorite albums. For me Chicago was synonymous with Cetera's vocals & songwriting. My interest really waned after his departure.

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

AGREE AGREE AGREE

[@MrDuds1984]

It was a Cetera solo album not a Chicago album, thanks David Foster

[@lamarravery4094]

@@MrDuds1984 Essentially it was a Toto, Peter Cetera and David Foster album, since they were the ones who actually played on that album along with Bill Champlin. Lamm had a couple of songs on there, but by that time he was washed up.

[@katemaloney4296]

I dunno. 16 could rival 17 when it comes to Peter's vocals, I always thought that undertone of anger on "Chains" was expressing his frustration at the band's situation at that time. He had wanted to leave after Terry died, then agreed to stay; the record company treated Chicago like crap, then terminated them with a pity cheque; realizing what a gem 16 was, Warner Bros. buried Peter's solo album so deep the Titanic waves down to it. You can hear where he was in his life in that song.

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

@@katemaloney4296 16 was pretty dang good i agree. How did i seem to forget CHAINS! Thanks for mentioning that! Yeah Peter was written all over that tune

[@michaelfrazia4569]

Guys voice is instantly recognizable. Great American musician. His vocals on if you leave me now are breathtaking

[@donb9860]

My 5'er (all Chicago): 5. Old Days 4. Another Rainy Day in New York City 3. Stay The Night 2. Feelin' Stronger Everyday 1. 25 or 6 to 4

[@thesavvyboy]

Cetera hated "Old Days" (a fave of mine also). He berated Pankow for writing it, calling it the "Howdy Doody" song.

[@TheLizardKing1967]

I grew up listening to Chicago in 1970. Chicago is one of the Greatest bands ever and Peter Cetera helped make them famous.

[@MIKECNW]

No more than the others.

[@lamarravery4094]

Without Cetera, Chicago wouldn't have lasted past 1972.

[@tdwaybright1]

No Tell Lover from the LP Hot Streets ('78) is a great Cetera vocal and his bass playing is killer.

[@kilemath3471]

🤣 I literally lol’ed at “he and Weird Al would probably get along real well” referring to polka music 🤣👍 awesome video as usual PoR! Born in ‘76 I grew up hearing Peter’s glorious voice all over the place. Thanks for this piece.

[@markwideman339]

Peter is so often mislabeled as only a soft sappy love song singer. He can sing many different genres from rock, pop, country and hard rock. What a voice.

[@lamarravery4094]

But there's no denying, he did ballads the best. But he rocks with the best of them. 25 or 6 to 4, I'm a Man, Hideaway, Woman don't want to Love Me, Feeling Stronger Every day.

[@markwideman339]

And many other rockers​@@lamarravery4094

[@Capt.Gagan.Boparai]

What an amazing high pitch yet soft voice he has...! I heard one of his songs back in the '80s on the radio and never knew the name of the song and the singer, but fell in love with the voice and after much struggle (in the innocent non-Google/KZbin days), found the song-Love me Tomorrow by Chicago, sung by none other than Peter..after that I never forgot his name and voice. I am listening to that song while I comment..after almost 30 yrs..still getting chills...those opening drums wow!!

[@coolcat6303]

Great to see Cetera get covered on your channel. He was always one of my fav male vocalists & I luv his solo work just as much as his Chicago yrs. Especially his 1988 album "One More Story". Lots of catchy songs on that one & the one where he found the perfect balance of rock & adult contemporary. If you guys haven't heard them yet, checkout the deep cuts "Scherezade" which features Madonna on b/g vocals & "You Never Listen To Me" which features David Gilmour & Guy Pratt from Pink Floyd. Those two songs are amazing & probably could've even been hits.

[@pappagetti]

The Solitude album was our soundtrack at work for an entire year.... Not 35 years ago... but in 2018-19.

[@andrewjarvis2867]

Big Mistake is such a great tune; Peter wails on those vocals and the music, with the great guitar and bevy of key changes in the middle, is just awesome.

[@lamarravery4094]

@@andrewjarvis2867 Big Mistake should've been a top 40 song. I think it almost made it. If Peter would've promoted it more it would've been. He did put out an awesome rockin video for the song, so he did make an effort I guess.

[@lamarravery4094]

Many great songs from Solitude/Solitaire. Of course Glory of Love was huge and the Next Time I Fall, but I also loved Big Mistake, Wanna Wake up to Love, and Daddy's Girl, which was used in the popular 1987 film, Three Men and a Baby.

[@andrewjarvis2867]

@@lamarravery4094 Completely agree with you. Really, the entire album was great; probably his best solo album.

[@davidwise3426]

One of the best voices in Rock. This is true.

[@gmwforce1972]

I got huge into Chicago with Chicago 17 and had just started going back to collect their entire catalog. Then one night I was watching TV it was called “Friday Night Videos” and it said “coming up soon the new big song from Chicago off their Chicago 18 record”. I was like this is going to be great to hear a new song with Cetera! Then the song played, and I was like, wait- that’s not Peter Cetera’s voice? What the heck is going on? Somehow I eventually found out he had left the band (not sure how we did it back then without the internet ha ha). I was crushed. Yes, he began his solo career so I was happy to still hear him on the radio, but Chicago was never the same. I eventually grew to like Jason Scheff’s voice quite a bit, but the poor guy had to follow Cetera. ‘Nuff said.

[@lamarravery4094]

Chicago 17 was huge back in 1984. They had 4 hits from that album and I remember listening to the radio that Peter left the band in 1985 and the band was looking for someone to fill in for Peter. It was big news back then. They were asking Richard Page from Mr.Mister, but he said no. The following summer, I'm listening to the radio and I hear a new song, it sounds like Chicago, but it's not, it's from the ex lead singer from Chicago, Peter Cetera. Man, what a song, this is going to be a huge hit, and it was big time.

[@candacemoore7252]

I love most everything Chicago and Peter Cetera did. My most favorite was wishing you were here

[@kevgret]

"One more Story" and "World falling down" are two master works... and two very different type of albums...a must listen to for any music fan.

[@lionheartroar3104]

"World Falling Down" a major great pop song that went nowhere.

[@kevgret]

@@lionheartroar3104 unfortunately "world falling down" came out at the wrong time.. rap and r&B ruled the music airwaves... but put that record on today and tell me it isn't the finest slice of pop music... "Dip your wings" and "No tomorrow" are simply amazing and very under appreciated

[@willchavez4354]

Wild Ways is a beautiful pop song!

[@musicandfiction]

"Save Me". One of Peter's greatest works.

[@kevgret]

Save me was used for the first season of baywatch... not many people know that

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

Yes and then the GREAT JIMI JAMISON Beat it out with IM ALWAYS HERE

[@lamarravery4094]

I loved it as well, he played bass on that song, he had some soul in that one. And Bonnie Raitt was a background singer on it as well.

[@thegodfatherofthesec1748]

Peter was a great singer and front man in Chicago on all the Chicago Albums ! One of my Top 10 singers of all time . Great job once again PROFESSOR 🕵️‍♀️ The Glory of 💕 Love.

[@lamarravery4094]

He's the tops for me. The top 1%. Paul McCartney, Jimi Jameson are up there too.

[@DS-hs3qp]

Cetera is the best ballad singer ever...

[@joumarkancheta388]

when I was in elem. and every time I hear Glory of love, i got a goosebumps. His tone is one in a billion. I never get tired listening of him

[@lamarravery4094]

Summer of 1986, I was in the 9th grade and whenever I heard the Glory of Love come on the radio, I would freeze and just listen to it. It was magical and perfect, the other songs on the radio were silly compared to it. That song was played a lot that summer.

[@TheTop40hub]

Fave Peter Cetera...Old Days, Another Rainy Day In New York City, Just You And Me, Happy Man, Seachin So Long. His first solo record was real good.

[@Pink_Freud_Obscured_By_Crowds]

Free on 3. Real rocker.

[@lamarravery4094]

Call On Me.

[@TheTop40hub]

Dialogue is a great duet and Mama Mama is another favourite.

[@lauriesolonka2477]

Love your classic selections❤

[@tawnyamahaffey2377]

100% #truth - no one can sing like Peter Cetera!! I think every song he touched was gold! Thanks for this!

[@savethofel8952]

So thrilled to see you cover Peter Cetera. He is an exceptional and often overlooked vocalist, bassist and songwriter. From CTA til Chicago 16, his backing work, duets and solo work, his ability was nuanced and that voice is clarion. Thank you for this!

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

His ability to run bass line while singing was INCREDIBLE!

[@ChiefTomahawkHandle]

Professor of Rock,you deserve your own TV show for the amount of work and quality you put into these videos and interviews. I would love to see an hour long program where you bring back these entertainers to perform and do a little storytelling on cable TV. It would be awesome.

[@Levashanks]

Great "episode" if you will professor! I worked on a promo video for a tour in Japan with Peter in Ketchum, Idaho in 2012 really like Peter very down to earth for that much talent. I also did some photography for the project and took the photo you used in this vid around 3:24 - Keep em coming Professor looking forward to your next show...

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@AffordableEscapesShreveport]

Yeah i reckon I better be making a trip to IDEEHO SOON!

[@AllenPendleton]

The production work on Chicago 17 was off the chain for it's time.

[@saulmarquez6713]

I grew up liestening to Chicago because of my mom, I think the first Song i remember it’s “If you lea e me now”, I was like 5-6 years old, and then As a teen I heard Hard for me to say I’m Sorry, And I was blown away, then Chicago 17 came, I save to Buy the cassette, so when I got to the music store, they had only “Greatest Hits volume 2” which includes “ If you léave now,”I didn’t want lo leave the store with my hands empty so ai bought it, it wasn’t what I was looking for, but I Had the opporunity to discover the Classic Chicago , with Song like Question 67 and 68, take me back to Chicago, etc, and that’s How I became A real fan And eventually bought all of their records, of course I’ve always loved Peter’s voice

[@lamarravery4094]

In the 80s, Peter was the reason, I bought all of Chicago's records. He made that band rich and successful.

[@rodspear]

Terry Kath WAS the heart of Chicago. When Terry passed, the magic of that band died with him and they were never the same after. On subsequent albums Chicago was largely Cetera's backing band.

[@miguelrio1269]

I really find it very surprising that most in the US didn't know their song "Song for You". It didn't even chart in the US but was a big hit in the Philippines. Search "Song for You" as it is a heavily underappreciated beautiful song.

[@pierceelyhibionada342]

Yeah I can't believe it, it was a Huge Hit Here!

[@lamarravery4094]

That song was from their 14th album which didn't sell well in the states. Song For You was very low energy and Peter sang it in a low key, most people weren't use to that since it didn't have his trademark soaring tenor vocals, but it is a good song.

[@samcockrell]

He hasn’t made a bad song period the last place God made classic

[@katemaloney4296]

I beg to differ; "Baby, What A Big Surprise" was a stinker.

[@omarvasquez445]

25 or 6 to 4, my favorite of Chicago. With the great Peter Cetera on lead vocals and bass.📯🎵🎶🎷🎸🥁

[@rexsexson5349]

My 5 Cetera Songs 1. Hard to Say I'm Sorry (Played it in marching band at competitions on trumpet, we won a lot of awards) 2. Glory of Love 3. If You Leave Me Now 4. Just You N Me 5. Hard Habit To Me (played this song as much as Hard to Say I'm Sorry)

[@AZ2PM]

Love the story about him and his wife. And I get him when he says it set the bar for true love. Peter Cetera, what an amazing voice.

[@chaz9082]

Absolutely one of my favorite bands and definitely one of my favorite vocalist. “Feelin’ Stronger” and “Happy Man” are also two of my favorites. I don’t remember listening to them as a kid, but as an older adult, they have become two of my most listened to songs by Chicago. I learn something every time I watch one of your videos. Thanks 😊

[@roystephens568]

The Professor makes every artist seem like his favorite artist. Such enthusiasm and so many great stories. Thank you for all of your hard work Adam.

[@darrknight1971]

Man! Awesome video. Love all the background info.

[@troycampbell68]

Absolutely agree with what you've said in this video. I'm shocked someone else listens so closely to the vocals and music like I do. Some honorable mentions for me is... Love Me Tomorrow and Along Comes A Woman. I absolutely agree with your #1 pick. Hard Habit to Break. In fact it's my #1 favorite song of all time. I totally agree, I can't believe this song didn't hit #1 on the charts. The song is perfection. The vocals by Peter Cetera and Bill Champlin are exceptional and their interplay is one of the best we’ve heard in pop music. Foster’s work is outstanding; from the tender first verses to the emotional horns break and over the top climax. Another key element is Jeremy Lubbock’s fantastic orchestral arrangement that rises to the spotlight in the song’s coda. The musical and vocal arrangement on Hard Habit to Break is perfect. Also an honorable mention for Peter's pure vocals is the song...Peter Cetera - Paul Anka - Hold Me Till The Morning Comes. Make sure to listen to the version where only Peter's voice is highlighted on the chorus. OMG. When Peter sings the chrous it's magical as his tenor soars as he sings the chrous line. Peter is one of the best singers of all time.

[@andrewhudson7108]

Not sure if you’ve seen it but there’s a recent documentary on David Foster that goes into his time with Chicago with the band and Cetera’s thoughts on his tenure. Worth a watch. Great video as always btw

[@stephenmccollum1391]

Where? Big fan of both

[@andrewhudson7108]

@@stephenmccollum1391 "David Foster: Off the Record" can be found on Netflix.

[@algallego]

@@andrewhudson7108 Thanks for that mention of the documentary! Hadn't caught that yet. I did see what Peter calls the Chicago Mockumentary, however-- not sure what to believe when it comes to their historical accounts of the bands rise and fall. According to Peter it was the drugs and alcohol. The band eludes to it when they talk about the crazy times they had on learjet flights!

[@MrDuds1984]

That doc and the other docs on Chicago basically show the resentment of the band of Fosters involvement in particular Robert Lamm, very revealing.

[@edklein9415]

Watched it last night - and truth be know: Foster had a HUGE part in Cetera leaving the band.....

[@quantum_man]

Peter Cetera - absolutely extraordinary Vocal ability. One of the greatest of all time. Thanks for sharing this ❤️

[@TheSrAtlanta]

Freaking fantastic! Love your passion! Another home run of a video.

[@sallymjmj750]

Just to clarify, Peter Cetera was one of three lead singers in early Chicago (Peter, Terry, and Robert).

[@waltersimmons946]

But Cetera sang on a majority of their hits even songs 🎵 he didn't write. That's why he was the voice of Chicago.

[@justinwoods6240]

Oh me oh my.... Boy do I love Peter Cetera’s many great hits - both his solo stuff and his stuff with Chicago! I’ll do one better for you guys- here’s my top 10 Peter Cetera solo/Chicago hits list. Number 10 - After All (with Cher) Number 9 - 25 or 6 to 4 (Chicago) Number 8 - Feels Like Heaven (with Chaka Khan) Number 7 - Hard Habit to Break (Chicago) Number 6 - One Good Woman Number 5 - Save Me (the original theme to TV’s Baywatch) Number 4 - Hard to Say I’m Sorry (Chicago) Number 3 - You’re The Inspiration (Chicago) Number 2 - Glory of Love (Karate Kid 2 Theme) Number 1 - Next Time I Fall (with Amy Grant). Here also are my top 5 honorable mentions as well: Number 5 - Restless Heart Number 4 - Faithfully (from One Clear Voice album) Number 3 - Wild Ways (from World Falling Down album and a mini-reunion with former Chicago group mate Bill Champlain) Number 2 - Forever Tonight (with Crystal Bernard from TV’s Wings) and Number 1 - Along Comes A Woman (with Chicago from the Chicago 17 album). Anybody have any other suggestions not on my list? Please feel free and let me know!

[@lamarravery4094]

Also One Clear Voice, Wanna Wake up to Love, Daddy's Girl, There in the Dark... There's many others, basically anything that he sings is great. I love his voice.

[@DorieBennier]

Song for you.

[@ambrlie06]

Totally love Peter. Top 5 5. I’m Coming Home 4. Restless Heart 3. If You Leave Me Now 2. Next Time I Fall 1 Feels Like Heaven

[@janetlauer8382]

I love "I'm Coming Home" and no one ever mentions it......one of my favorites!

[@paulmillard9942]

Excellent episode on Peter Cetera, thanks for putting it together, 17 years with Chicago as an incredible vocalist and one of the best bassists in the business plus all his solo hits of course. Still one of my favourite songs he ever recorded is Searchin’ So Long from Chicago VII.

[@vewilli]

Yes, he‘s absolutely the best pop-singer ever, densely followed by Jon Anderson of Yes, but completely different!

[@w2gf]

Chicago has always been one of my favorites, between Terry's awesome guitar playing and Peter's voice... it was magic! When Peter decided to go solo, I didn't know what to expect. I was worried Chicago were done, but wanted to see where his career would go from there. As time went on, he really impressed me. I feel like Chicago lost some of their fire, when he left... and never recovered. I really love Peter's duet with Crystal Bernard (I Wanna Take Forever Tonight) on his 1995 album, Once Clear Voice. I don't think it received much air play, but I had a few clients back then request it for their wedding (used to be a mobile DJ). I think it's probably my top duet by him, and I agree.. Hard Habit To Break is an amazing song. I remember a couple friends and I sitting on the porch, listening to that song and just being amazed. 25 or 6 to 4 will always remind me of my childhood. Riding with my mom, cruising the streets of Champaign-Urbana, with WLS on the radio.

[@jsolethedj]

Speaking of KC Kasem, you are the KC Kasem of our era. Love this channel brother. I love Chicago, especially their earlier material and Peter's solo work. Salute!

[@jacksonmacleod1795]

"Happy Man" was a greatly under appreciated song by Peter and Chicago!!!

[@ChrisConnolly-Mr.C-Dives-In]

Chicago. Living in Chicago, Demon Dogs hot dog stand used “Hard Habit to Break” as their slogan. The walls were covered with Chicago (the band) posters and memorabilia and the juke box had a full catalogue of Chicago songs. I saw the band live about 4 years ago at Ravinia, an outdoor venue. Good memories. Old Days is one of the top feel good songs by any measure.

[@robf6105]

When Jason Scheff joined the band, they brought him to Demon Dogs to initiate him. Pretty cool.

[@ChrisConnolly-Mr.C-Dives-In]

Robert Fusco I wish Demon Dogs was still around. Thanks for the scoop.

[@robf6105]

@@ChrisConnolly-Mr.C-Dives-In You're welcome. Check out the KZbin video "Chicago-Jason Scheff joins the band 1985." Toward the end they bring him there.

[@ChrisConnolly-Mr.C-Dives-In]

Robert Fusco I will definitely check it out.

[@ChrisConnolly-Mr.C-Dives-In]

Robert Fusco Yeah that was great to see the guys and Demon Dogs too. I really miss the old places around town. Like the Yesterday store which is soon to be torn down. Old Days. Thanks again for the tip.

[@RobKimbro1966]

A very underappreciated gem from Chicago 17 is Remember The Feeling. The record company definitely missed the boat by not releasing this masterpiece as a stand alone single. It rates up there easily with both Hard Habit To Break and Your The Inspiration and what a grand slam that would have been had it happened.

[@brettsfav4]

Peter is truly one of the greats! Thanks for the awesome video.

[@seankent1807]

Excellent video as always! Kudos for taking the time to touch on his talent as a bass player too! You guys are always so thorough 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@josephcoon9914]

I loved when the lines from you’re the inspiration on Alf

[@peterabbate301]

Love His World Falling Down Album Every song Is Awesome Especially With chaka Khan !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@lamarravery4094]

Chaka has an awesome voice, I'm so glad Peter did that song with her. And to think he was originally going to sing that with country star Lorrie Morgan. That would've been a big mistake.

[@tristramcoffin926]

I liked Chicago growing up and saw them twice in concert. Also, as a big fan of the Karate Kid I loved his contribution to the sequel. However, my main memory about Peter Cetera was my mother buying all of his solo stuff on tape and playing them over and over in the car. I kinda couldn't listen to Chicago or Peter Cetera for a decade after that. It wasn't her fault. She just REALLY loved Peter Cetera.

[@cydizen4967]

I super enjoyed how you broke down songs and the invoked emotion that certain verses brought. Excellent man!

[@gregoryreed4866]

I remember If you leave me now as one of the first songs as a kid that made me feel so emotional. I mean at 5 years old it stirred something deep inside me and it's always been in my top 50 songs of all time-we all make those list lol

[@fitzgivesfits1]

Feels like heaven with Chaka Khan, I wanna take forever tonight with actress Crystal Bernard.

[@P4MU2Q]

Here are my top 5 Chicago songs led by Peter Cetera. 1: Hard Habit To Break 2: You're The Inspiration 3: Hard To Say I'm Sorry 4: The Greatest Love On Earth 5. If You Leave Me Now

[@sailingsam3815]

Glory of love!