Chicago's Musical Journey: Songwriting Evolution

In the expansive world of rock bands, few have achieved the longevity and versatility of Chicago. Formed in 1967 with a unique blend of rock and jazz, Chicago has captivated audiences with its rich and vibrant sound. A central aspect of the band's legacy is its songwriting process. Over the course of their career, Chicago has demonstrated an evolution in songwriting, reflecting the changes in their members, producers, and overall creative direction.

Early Years: Self-Composers and Jazz Influence

Chicago's initial success was marked by their unique blend of rock and jazz, often characterized by the band's extensive horn sections (referred to as the Chicago Horns). During the band's early years, from their first album to their tenth, the songwriting process was largely self-contained. Founding members such as Robert Lamm, Peter Cetera, and James Pankow played pivotal roles in writing the majority of the songs. Their writings were often detailed in the liner notes, showcasing the band's commitment to their creative vision.

One interesting aspect of their early compositions was the inclusion of liner notes that often featured handwritten cursive. These notes provided insight into the lyrics, who wrote them, and sometimes even included poems or other creative elements. For instance, the band's cover of I'm A Man, originally by the Spencer Davis Group, was noted for having additional material written by the band's producer, James William Guercio.

Mid-Career Shift: Collaborations and New Influences

Around the eleventh recording, the writing process started to evolve, as Chicago began collaborating with external composers and songwriters. This shift was partly due to changes in the band's personnel and the introduction of new producers. Some notable songs from this period, such as Hard Habit to Break, were compositions by other artists, reflecting the band's willingness to incorporate new sounds and perspectives into their music.

The 1980s and 1990s marked a significant period for Chicago's songwriting, as they started to work more extensively with songwriters like Diane Warren. Diane Warren was known for her success in crafting hit ballads for various artists, movies, and TV shows. Chicago's collaboration with Warren resulted in some of the band's most beloved ballads, further cementing their status as a versatile and enduring act.

Conclusion: Chicago's Legacy as a Self-Composing Band

While Chicago has undoubtedly worked with external writers at various points in their career, their early success and the enduring quality of their music cannot be neglected. Robert Lamm, Peter Cetera, and James Pankow have consistently contributed to the band's creative output, displaying a commitment to their musical legacy. Chicago's evolution in songwriting underscores their adaptability and the importance of their original contributions to the rich tapestry of rock and jazz music.