The year is 1970…..the Chicago Transit Authority had changed its name to simply Chicago and just released its second album called simply Chicago II. Under the leadership of producer James Guercio (you might want to search out my earlier post on the Buckinghams who he had produced in the 60s) the horn driven rock band was in the process of becoming one of most popular bands of the 1970s. Robert Lamm, the keyboard player, had written 25 or 6 to 4 for Chicago II and it became the group’s biggest hit up to that point in time reaching number 4 on the US singles chart in June of 1970. I was about to turn 17 in June of 1970, enjoying summer break between my junior and single years of high school, and I loved this song. Let’s listen………
This song has a lot to offer: the great bass riff by Peter Cetera who also sings lead vocals; the amazing Chicago horns; and a wonderful guitar solo (including some solid way-wah pedal action) by Terry Kath. i hope you like it as much as I do!
There has been a lot of controversy regarding the meaning of the song. Over the years, many people have claimed the song was about drugs but I think we can put that rumor to rest by letting Robert Lamm set the story straight…….
If you like Chicago be sure to check back in on Sunday. I have a really special Sunday Session post planned for you.
By the way…..thanks to my friend Gerard who once again demonstrated is knowledge of music by identifying the song and the group based on just the opening Riff!
thebestmusicyouhaveneverheard 