Ok I’m back. I’ve been listening to the original recording for like an hour on a loop. For the first time in my audiofool life I’m going to say it…THIS VERSION IS BETTER. Start flinging the stones now. The dynamics, the whole breadth of this rendition is PHENOMENAL! These guys are absolutely WORLD CLASS MUSICIANS. Perfect, Perfect, Perfect!!!
yea, I've actually back to back compared. These guys nail it. (They DO seem to use more musicians though) Bottom line though, they raise the song to a level it probably never reached before, and certainly they do it better than the current iteration of the band known as Chicago
The tune original version by Chicago Transity Authority is how this tunes original sounded and that total smoothness. Saw this band in Amarillo with two other bands and that was my first concert I'd ever attended and it was worth every cent. Fantastic concert and artist. This is before they broke up and changed their name - forcefully.
Perhaps you're hearing the band's love for music ... the desperation to spread love and peace to the WORLD. They have more to 'prove' than Chicago did, I think.
Their guitarist is WAY better than Chicago's current guitarist (Tony... and Tony ain't bad) Their show is one of the highest energy shows I have ever seen live. THESE GUYS ROCK!
Yes they are great. It is one of my favorite, Make me smile and 25 or 6 to 4 is the other. I saw Chicago two times in concert and they were great also.
I CANNOT stop watching & listening to this group! Since I ‘discovered’ them, here on RUclips, 2 weeks ago I’ve played their entire catalog over & over (& over ...). As both a vocalist & horn player growing up in the ‘60s & ‘70’s in America I was obsessed with the great horn bands like Chicago; Blood Sweat & Tears; Earth, Wind & Fire, et. al.. I marvel at the exquisite musicianship displayed by all of these immensely talented people and only wish I could could ‘sit in’ with them! Leonid’s ability to cipher these tracks - BY EAR - is reminiscent of the scene in ‘Amadeus’ (movie about Mozart) where Mozart hears Salieri’s march played once by the Emperor Joseph II ... which leads to Mozart sitting down and playing it and then running many variations off with ease. Okay, back to the present from my obscure movie reference ... Leonid & Friends musicianship, obvious passion and enjoyment of playing keystone music from my youth has brought tremendous joy to me in what has been (like so many I suspect) one of the most difficult years of my 60 year-old life! (2020) I am a disabled Veteran living in chronic pain and fatigue from Parkinson’s disease. My medical providers encouraged me to return to my musical & artistic youthful endeavors for ‘Neuroplasticity’ ... and it’s been one of the most effective means of pushing back on chronic pain and keeps me from falling into the twin abyss of dopamine deficiency induced Anxiety & Depression. I, however, hit a very rough spot, 3 months ago and stopped painting and playing my music. That is ... UNTIL I heard Leonid & Friend’s opening riffs of Chicago’s “Make Me Smile”. ... which, in a profound way they did! Thank you so very much to all of you in Leonid & Friends for returning music, joy and hope back into my life!
Hi Rock Head! First of all thank you for serving our country ! Welcome to the Lenheads! Lol My bf and I had a rough yr last year health wise and when we heard them I looked them up and by golly if they weren’t going to be in concert an hour away a month later . Bought tickets right away . Met so many ppl on their Facebook fan page before we even went . Omg do you know my bf did not stop smiling the entire concert ! Everyone was smiling and singing along . It’s like we were born again or something! It’s really weird how they’ve made such an impact here. Now , go get your art supplies out and next time they come here you HAVE to go see them!
Rock Head - Thank you for your service! I been playing drums for over 50 years, and guitar for over 40, and like you, this band reminds me of why I started playing and listening to music in the first place. I just can’t get enough of seeing their joy in their playing and singing...
Strum Bum thanks Strum ... I’m on Sound Cloud if you wish to hear any of my music. Most popular is a cover of ‘Vincent’ (Starry Starry Night by Don McClean) .... so appreciate your kind words!
Oh, and Judy ... thank you for the gentle nudge back to painting. I won a National juried Veteran Art show in fall of 2017. My icon is a self portrait ;)
These guys are phenomenal. Not only does it sound like Chicago, it sounds like the original studio recording. Bands are always trying to "make a song there own," but it takes extraordinary talent to replicate a recording down to the last note and inflection. Often even the original band cannot duplicate there original recording when they are live. Of course, there performance is all the more amazing considering that they are not native English speakers. Bravo guys.
Seriously. The whole band is incredible but he’s SO solid you end up paying attention to the drums more than you normally would. Plus he keeps his drums pretty ‘dead’ like Steve Gadd which is a solid plus too!
I've gone back and listened to the original Chicago songs, and listened to the drumming in particular, and man that dude was killer too. He gets no credit because of the horns and the unique sound, but he's due a lot of props.
OMG, this has got to be the most incredible cover of any American pop song I’ve ever heard in my life! It really sounds exactly like Chicago!!! I mean the rhythm, the instrumentals, the vocals (and HARMONIES!!!)…. Absolutely incredible!! And these guys are in Russia?!? Do they even speak English??? I have no idea how they did that! It’s like listening to Arnel Pineda singing old Journey and Steve Perry songs…UNCANNY!
What's funny is that they don't think that they're anything special. When they tour the USA or hit them up on FB, they all respond and chat for hours 😂😂
This isn't so much a tribute to one of the greatest bands in the world as it is one of the greatest bands in the world performing somebody's original from 48 years ago.
David Muzzatti I agree! Generally I'm sceptical of so called tribute bands, there's a certain parasitic sense to someone doing Zeppelin, Beatles, Allman Bros, or Stones shows for a living. I'm of an age that I have fond memories of the real thing. I loved the first couple of Chicago's lp's, but felt ambivalent about the rest of their output. It's a treat to hear their best music played so well by guys who are so passionate about it.
I remember watching Chicago in 1979… they were the finale at Chicagofest at Navy Pier… I’ve never gotten over the live horns. These guys are a close 2nd. 👍🏼
These videos from Leonid and Friends are addictive. Everyone here is simply first class, from the drummer to the guitarist/bassist to the pianist to the horn'ers to the singers. Everyone's role reminds me of the original Chicago bandmates. Amazing.
Olive Rivera - yuk, really..... are you serious......... I think you need your hearing fix. He may have the slightest accent but yuk is not an appropriate response for these talented musicians.
Olive Rivera - well, at least you got one thing right, olive...... for a brain. Pickled with a pimento for an ear. Booooo hoooo, little kid playing on mommies phone ☎️. Okay, there’s shit in your diaper, time to shower the shit out of your ears so you can hear well!
I've seen Chicago once or twice. I've seen Leonid and Friends 2 times. I prefer Leonid and Friends. Here's hoping for a third time in a couple of months.
Our band leader back in 1970 was like leonid. He taped this song and wrote the sheet music for our stage band. I played trumpet. Our stage band played this song ( along with others ) at a competition in North Dakota. We took 2nd place out of 18 bands performing. Can’t say enough for the experience and fun being in band with such a dedicated teacher.
This kid did a gell of job an drummer ALL of them did great!👍🥰😔😥miss Chicago/ earthwind FIRE ETEC ALL GOOD bands..the crap that's out there now music AWARDS isnt music to me..
Does anybody really know how much joy you guys bring to all of the world wide ,life long Chicago fans???? Don't come to America guys because we won't let you go!!!!! Sergey, the way you rip that guitar and sing the American women will definitively make you stay!!!! Seriously, may God continue to bless you all now and forever.............
New York City on 1/8/19, Los Angelis, CA on 1/11, 12 &13/2019, Rosemont, IL on 1/15/18, Highwood, IL on 1/18/19, Dallas, TX on 1/20/18 and Clearwater, FL on 1/22/19.
As a former horn player and band leader for a popular group here in the USA, let me just say that these guys are amazing. As good as Chicago, who I love dearly.
I'm 59, live in Georgia ( U.S., not Europe--smile), and have heard Chicago sing this several times live over the years, and you guys sing this as well as I've ever heard it. Very well done, sirs....
I'm a few years younger than you but I also grew up listening to Chicago and they nailed it. What is even more surprised is that she didnt grow up speaking English. Playing jazz is tough but they are tight.
I've only just discovered L&F tonight and I've listened to every single thing they have on RUclips. Every song is perfect.. better than the original usually. But every nuance of the original is in tact. The engineers who mic'd these sessions are as talented as the players, really. I'm an engineer and musician and I can tell you that both are important to what we hear.
Ron, you're gonna miss some sleep late nights listening to L and F. Of course it's worth it. You can also enjoy the visuals and individual efforts the members of the band put forth. Be well.
I agree 100%. The studio work is impeccable. Everything, every instrument, every voice, is crisp and clear. This band sounds brand new and shiny clean every time.
As a musician who plays trumpet, guitar, and keys these guys are TIGHT! The horns are spot on and the vocals are better than the originals. I've played in several bands thru the years but nothing close to these guys. Thanks.
Composition: Right after the free form piano solo, the time signature of the fanfare preceding the trumpet solo is, per bar, 4/4, 7/8, 9/8, 4/4, 7/8 and 4/4, then transitions to a section in 5/8 for 6 bars, then goes into 6/8 for one bar. The song stays in 4/4 after that. Incredible guys! All musicians would agree and most musicians would NOT be able to pull this off perfectly. Nice work.
Good stuff in every way. I'm a 68 year old and remember this song being on the charts and being played on the radio. Hearing it takes me back to the care-free days of my youth.
It's magic with Serge or Sergey or Micheal on vocals and Igor on the drums. I grew up listening to Chicago all of the 70's. The difference is barely noticeable. You put so much work into every song. It brings tears to my eyes how well everyone in the group is so talented at what they do, keyboard, saxs, trumpet, guitar work, vocals and of course Ksenia. Best cover group of all time !!!
I want to thank you for getting me through these times. I have tears in my eyes because I have no other emotion left to express the level of joy I experience when I watch your video's. Thank you today from CA USA 3/20/2020
I'm sadly going through these same depressing times with you, Corona virus and now riot's in the US because of another police murder of an unarmed black man. I heard " Feeling stronger every day" on a local oldies channel and looked it up on RUclips. Thankfully I discovered Leonid and Friends and will enjoy and spread the word of their amazing musical talents. Let their music get us though 2020 and beyond.
Same here. Became a widow and have to go through these scary times without my best friend. We always used to listen to this song. When I watch this wonderful talented band, I Cry.
@@williambonson6846 L & F are a gift during these trying times. On the riots, look up the actual statistics for yourself - do not rely on the national media to inform you - on the comparative rarity of those encounters (I'd recommend Heather MacDonald's articles). B on B homicides are much more common. Look at the city of Chicago year-over-year.
I was a huge Chicago fan in the day. This group of musicians are absolutely amazing. There are not the words to describe what a miracle this music by these people is. Thank you Leonid and Friends!
For years I thought my recording was warped or something because I kept getting that " what I called interference". Lol. I had to watch this video to know that it was deliberate. I couldn't make out what was being said. Thank goodness for RUclips.
@@Mij1965 Thanks, so much! I'll keep an eye out for them. I hope they include Houston on their tour. There aren't many bands that I would pay nearly any amount to see, but, Leonid and Friends are certainly worth it.
@@Mij1965 I played Trumpet, Baritone and Coronet since age 10 and am 72 now. I grew up just north of Chicago and loved the band. These guys sound absolutely INCREDIBLE !.[ tight, crisp and perfect !..would love to hear what Peter Cetera thinks of these guys...Bravo...they should be very proud of their work ! Peace !
I played one of your songs to my wife and I said to her who is this and she said "Chicago" as a huge Chicago fan you do them justice, keep up the great work, absolutely fantastic.
This band doesn't need my approval they are outstanding!! Took me back to my high school days on the lakefront in Chicago (yeah) everyone who was there knows how beautiful it really was.❤❤
I actually don’t remember Chicago EVER sounding this good...Like seriously this band is so tight, and I love that smug look Sergey has a few times because he knows they have absolutely mastered it. God bless, just phenomenal !!!
I heard them live in the gym at Lamar University in Beaumont back in the early 70s when Terry Kath was still alive...and they were definitely this good, even in that kind of sound environment. Don't tell me that the original band didn't sound this good..I was there.
145 people are either tone deaf or never liked this song in the first place, because this is every bit as good as the classic original. An awesome, flawless cover. Chicago would be proud.
@@82luft49 So they can post about how any Chicago song without Terry Kath sucks. The same 145 then go over to Foreigner threads and whine about how they suck without Lou Gramm. I'm still bowled over by how accurately these folks have reproduced one of my favorite groups of all time. 5 stars all the way.
I grew up Listening to CHICAGO; and if anyone would have told me as a child, that another band would come some 50 years later, and would be BETTER THAN CHICAGO! I would have thought they were CRAZY!! And then, LEONID & FRIENDS SHOWED UP!! NUFF SAID!! 😍♥😘🙏
It is astounding that a group of musicians whose native language is Russian could perform a cover of an American pop band's music so well, that it might even be better than the original!
Agreed..these guys are marvelous.Amid sanctions vs Putin and alleged electgion invasions and super cyber trickery and investigations, why not just lock Putin and Trump in a room and make them listen to this for a week
the instrumentals are phenomenal but the lead vocal on this just has too much 'Russian- slugginess / slur' to be better than the original. He needs to spend a bit more time in the US and we can fix that! Still, a great cover.
I just saw a live performance of this song by Chicago themselves dated 1998 outdoors. They just seem to get sloppier as they get older....this version BLEW AWAY CHICAGO BY A MILE!!!!
Channeling Terry Kath! Love the "cool" of the drummer! Brass is rock solid, strings hit the spot, and the vocals - OMG! Synth and bongos - man you're on it too. To the video production - hours and hours of Great work! You're havin fun and it shows. Share-Share-Share!
Very Nice. Almost brought a tear, remembering my childhood. At 8 years old, grabbed my bike in the morning. Rode wherever I wanted. Back home by supper. Nobody cared about time. I was a man at 8. Lol.
I used to play these songs in a band 50 years ago...coronet...crazy thing is i doubt we could ever sing a russian song so good...what a fresh breath of air!!!!!
Jimmy Hendrix stated years ago that Terry Kath was a great guitar player. Now that's impressive coming from a great guitar player. I loved Terry's raspy voice too especially in Color My World.
@@isee7668 Wish I could. Unfortunately, I live in a red state in the US, so covid has me pretty financially stressed as well. I'll donate one of these days when things are brighter.
This band is amazing. Every time I hear their covers of Chicago, et al, it literally brings tears to my eyes... reminds me when I first heard the songs on the radio, albums, etc. Leonid and Friends have given me hope for the world and bringing people together with their music. Keep bringing it.
Nov. 19, 2019. About six weeks ago, I had a hankering to listen to some Earth Wind & Fire -- "September" in particular. And this link (Leonid & Friends) showed up in a RUclips list for the song. So I listened to it -- enthusiastically. I presumed they were some garage band from the [American] mid-west or someplace from USA. I saw how beautiful the woman vocalist is, and was amused by how the guitar player (whom I now know to be Sergey Kashirin) could NOT keep his eyes off of her. I enjoyed the video so much, I listened to more and more of the "Leonid & Friends" videos. I fell in love with EVERY SINGLE SONG. I was astonished to discover that they are all Russians-- with a Ukrainian and a Moldovan thrown in! And that English is a second language to them!! I am still addicted, and listen to them every day. The singer from Kiev -- Serge Tiaghiryadno - has an amazing voice -- so strong! You can see inside his mouth and he has wonderful teeth! But I confess my favorites are: (1) Serge Kashirin, for his smooth, easy voice and accomplished guitar skills (and sense of humor -- love the "Mr Sexy" tee-shirt); (2) Leonid Vorobyev, for being the master-mind and arranger of this fantastically talented group, and (3) Igor for his command of the drums! I also checked out Sergey Kashirin singing in his native language: The Real Bodrit - Superman, I believe it was. Just very impressed by all of their musical talents, enthusiasm, and joy in performing. Hats off to Mr. Vorobyev! PS Vasily -- kudos for your masculine, "gravelly" voice an your pride in being a MAN. Also have a crush on the tall trombone player Alexandr- something. Pure joy to watch and listen to you guys!
You guys are absolutely fantastic. I am 50 and a musician a drummer. I live in Canada and I love the early music of Chicago, so good so awesome. Way to go, thank you for sharing your talent. Brought tears to my eyes.
Oh man, ear candy to the MAX! The recorded quality and performance is top drawer, better than the original. I know what time it is---time to give you guys 5 thumbs up!👍👍👍👍👍
I honestly don't have a word to describe this. All of Leonid and Friends covers are unbelievably good but this one is off the scale. If there is anything better than perfection this is it.
I think that this cover could possibly surpass the original! I am a Chicago fan grew up listening to this great music. Leonid & Friends is one of best big sounding groups currently on the planet. Musicianship is spot on and vocals off the scale! Big fan of original and current covers of some great music! D
Back for another few dozen listens 👍
How many of you come back, and listen to this time and time again. It never gets old. Love you guys!
I sure as hell do! Especially when I get some time to myself and have a few cocktails. It always puts me in a good mood.
Me
Me too
Yup
Yup
Ok I’m back. I’ve been listening to the original recording for like an hour on a loop. For the first time in my audiofool life I’m going to say it…THIS VERSION IS BETTER. Start flinging the stones now. The dynamics, the whole breadth of this rendition is PHENOMENAL! These guys are absolutely WORLD CLASS MUSICIANS. Perfect, Perfect, Perfect!!!
yea, I've actually back to back compared. These guys nail it. (They DO seem to use more musicians though) Bottom line though, they raise the song to a level it probably never reached before, and certainly they do it better than the current iteration of the band known as Chicago
The tune original version by Chicago Transity Authority is how this tunes original sounded and that total smoothness. Saw this band in Amarillo with two other bands and that was my first concert I'd ever attended and it was worth every cent. Fantastic concert and artist. This is before they broke up and changed their name - forcefully.
Oh, please...
Perhaps you're hearing the band's love for music ... the desperation to spread love and peace to the WORLD. They have more to 'prove' than Chicago did, I think.
Their guitarist is WAY better than Chicago's current guitarist (Tony... and Tony ain't bad)
Their show is one of the highest energy shows I have ever seen live.
THESE GUYS ROCK!
My alltime favorite Chicago song! These guys pretty much nailed it. Nice job!
Yes they are great. It is one of my favorite, Make me smile and 25 or 6 to 4 is the other. I saw Chicago two times in concert and they were great also.
I also like Make me smile and 25 or 6 to 4. I saw Chicago twice in concert. But I am really impressed with these guys.
Note-for-note, nuance-for-nuance. These guys are the absolute very best cover or tributes that I've ever heard, incredible!
So true!
I love those Russians and Ukrainians!!!
@@elisabethlinz4256 ....and i love baby poop!
@@gregorytyse9317
What an intelligent remark!
@@gregorytyse9317 do you love yourself
@@fabio38551 No I hate myself until the end of ALL time!!!! Do you understand Doao Farlos Ji Aabio?!?! I love baby poop.
Chicago created these songs. Huge accomplishment. These amazing musicians play this music to perfection. Kudos to boh
Facts🔥🔥🔥🔥
Leonid had to create his own musical scores just from listening to Chicago music
That’s amazing
I CANNOT stop watching & listening to this group! Since I ‘discovered’ them, here on RUclips, 2 weeks ago I’ve played their entire catalog over & over (& over ...). As both a vocalist & horn player growing up in the ‘60s & ‘70’s in America I was obsessed with the great horn bands like Chicago; Blood Sweat & Tears; Earth, Wind & Fire, et. al.. I marvel at the exquisite musicianship displayed by all of these immensely talented people and only wish I could could ‘sit in’ with them!
Leonid’s ability to cipher these tracks - BY EAR - is reminiscent of the scene in ‘Amadeus’ (movie about Mozart) where Mozart hears Salieri’s march played once by the Emperor Joseph II ... which leads to Mozart sitting down and playing it and then running many variations off with ease.
Okay, back to the present from my obscure movie reference ... Leonid & Friends musicianship, obvious passion and enjoyment of playing keystone music from my youth has brought tremendous joy to me in what has been (like so many I suspect) one of the most difficult years of my 60 year-old life! (2020)
I am a disabled Veteran living in chronic pain and fatigue from Parkinson’s disease. My medical providers encouraged me to return to my musical & artistic youthful endeavors for ‘Neuroplasticity’ ... and it’s been one of the most effective means of pushing back on chronic pain and keeps me from falling into the twin abyss of dopamine deficiency induced Anxiety & Depression.
I, however, hit a very rough spot, 3 months ago and stopped painting and playing my music. That is ...
UNTIL I heard Leonid & Friend’s opening riffs of Chicago’s “Make Me Smile”. ... which, in a profound way they did!
Thank you so very much to all of you in Leonid & Friends for returning music, joy and hope back into my life!
Hi Rock Head! First of all thank you for serving our country ! Welcome to the Lenheads! Lol
My bf and I had a rough yr last year health wise and when we heard them I looked them up and by golly if they weren’t going to be in concert an hour away a month later . Bought tickets right away . Met so many ppl on their Facebook fan page before we even went .
Omg do you know my bf did not stop smiling the entire concert ! Everyone was smiling and singing along . It’s like we were born again or something! It’s really weird how they’ve made such an impact here. Now , go get your art supplies out and next time they come here you HAVE to go see them!
Judy Patterson Ayala thank you so very much!
Rock Head - Thank you for your service! I been playing drums for over 50 years, and guitar for over 40, and like you, this band reminds me of why I started playing and listening to music in the first place. I just can’t get enough of seeing their joy in their playing and singing...
Strum Bum thanks Strum ... I’m on Sound Cloud if you wish to hear any of my music. Most popular is a cover of ‘Vincent’ (Starry Starry Night by Don McClean) .... so appreciate your kind words!
Oh, and Judy ... thank you for the gentle nudge back to painting. I won a National juried Veteran Art show in fall of 2017. My icon is a self portrait ;)
These guys are phenomenal. Not only does it sound like Chicago, it sounds like the original studio recording. Bands are always trying to "make a song there own," but it takes extraordinary talent to replicate a recording down to the last note and inflection. Often even the original band cannot duplicate there original recording when they are live. Of course, there performance is all the more amazing considering that they are not native English speakers. Bravo guys.
They must have a different lead vocalist now and sounds different but they are still good...5 1 2024
The sound quality is superb. Hats off to the audio engineer.
Yepppppp
BRAVO 👏 👏
Good choice of songs nice job guys someone taught you well
No doubt. The mix and levels on this are perfect.
The drummer is a machine
Seriously. The whole band is incredible but he’s SO solid you end up paying attention to the drums more than you normally would. Plus he keeps his drums pretty ‘dead’ like Steve Gadd which is a solid plus too!
IGOR!
THE WHOLE BAND IS !!!!!!!
The guy is amazing. Deep deep deep in the pocket
I've gone back and listened to the original Chicago songs, and listened to the drumming in particular, and man that dude was killer too. He gets no credit because of the horns and the unique sound, but he's due a lot of props.
OMG, this has got to be the most incredible cover of any American pop song I’ve ever heard in my life! It really sounds exactly like Chicago!!! I mean the rhythm, the instrumentals, the vocals (and HARMONIES!!!)…. Absolutely incredible!! And these guys are in Russia?!? Do they even speak English??? I have no idea how they did that! It’s like listening to Arnel Pineda singing old Journey and Steve Perry songs…UNCANNY!
The band is truly awesome. Seeing Chicago 8 times starting in the mid 70s, I can appreciate how very good this band is. Keep Chicago rockin.
They were touring with Earth Wind and Fire recently.
I TOTALLY AGREE!! 😀🖐🇦🇺🐨
Ditto
Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!! How they do this!!! I’m speechless. This shows you what human being can do with love in their hearts
Fantastic!
And English is not their first language! Incredible!
What's funny is that they don't think that they're anything special. When they tour the USA or hit them up on FB, they all respond and chat for hours 😂😂
Bravo! I love this song! Many good memories thanks guys well done!
YES!!! I’m with you my brother. I have loved Chicago since 1969. I have the Chicago Transit Authority album in my collection. These guys are great!
This isn't so much a tribute to one of the greatest bands in the world as it is one of the greatest bands in the world performing somebody's original from 48 years ago.
David Muzzatti That is the best compliment!
Word!!!....
David Muzzatti Exactly!!!
Well said!
David Muzzatti
I agree! Generally I'm sceptical of so called tribute bands, there's a certain parasitic sense to someone doing Zeppelin, Beatles, Allman Bros, or Stones shows for a living. I'm of an age that I have fond memories of the real thing. I loved the first couple of Chicago's lp's, but felt ambivalent about the rest of their output. It's a treat to hear their best music played so well by guys who are so passionate about it.
I’m 67 and saw Chicago three times in their heyday. You guys have absolutely nailed it! Thank you for bringing it back so perfectly...
Your comment "Covers" me exactly!!!
I remember watching Chicago in 1979… they were the finale at Chicagofest at Navy Pier… I’ve never gotten over the live horns. These guys are a close 2nd. 👍🏼
They absolutely nailed this❣️
Steve thank you for your comment I'm 37 years old I've always been a ol soul I wish I could have seen eagles or chicago in their hayday.
dude music's not whar it used to be
Sitting by the campfire and just heard this for first time...... ya , life is good !
Okay this is getting ridiculous now.
Every time I click on these guys my mind is blown.
Me too....
FEELING THE SAME! UNREAL!
The same way I feel. Out of this world.
I agree!
It's crazy how good they are!!...Sometimes I forget this is a cover and think they're actually Chicago!!
These videos from Leonid and Friends are addictive. Everyone here is simply first class, from the drummer to the guitarist/bassist to the pianist to the horn'ers to the singers. Everyone's role reminds me of the original Chicago bandmates. Amazing.
They are absolutely spot on. Even the background vocalists. Absolutely amazing!
I still can't grasp this even better than the regular Chicago band though I seen them 15 times over the years.
OMG !! Holy Crap these guys sound 'exactly' like Chicago, they're hitting everything right on cue I can't believe it. They're AWESOME !!
NO !!! the guy DOES NOT sound like Robert Lamm at all, this guy has an accent! YUK! The background singers does sounds like.
Olive Rivera - yuk, really..... are you serious......... I think you need your hearing fix. He may have the slightest accent but yuk is not an appropriate response for these talented musicians.
Bart Simpson Booo Hoooo! I’m crying so hard !! The replicas are so good!!! ... NOT !!!
Olive Rivera - well, at least you got one thing right, olive...... for a brain. Pickled with a pimento for an ear. Booooo hoooo, little kid playing on mommies phone ☎️. Okay, there’s shit in your diaper, time to shower the shit out of your ears so you can hear well!
And yet it's just different enough to know that it is a cover, as it has its own unique sound.
I don’t think there is another band that can cover Chicago as good as these guys can!
Correct Paul..At least we have not found them yet..:)..The best of the best!!!
Not even Chicago!
I've seen Chicago once or twice. I've seen Leonid and Friends 2 times.
I prefer Leonid and Friends.
Here's hoping for a third time in a couple of months.
@@toober4013lol!!!
Absolutely Incredible!!! How could ANYBODY not love this!!! It's just Perfect!!!
Every time I watch this I end up with tears in my eyes...
I love you guys.
The fact that they included the spoken part in the last verse is what gets me.
As a tribute to the one of the greatest bands in the world! Shit, what band has EVER been better.
Our band leader back in 1970 was like leonid. He taped this song and wrote the sheet music for our stage band. I played trumpet. Our stage band played this song ( along with others ) at a competition in North Dakota. We took 2nd place out of 18 bands performing. Can’t say enough for the experience and fun being in band with such a dedicated teacher.
That’s a great story/memory. 😁
Im guessing chicago music is a huge favorite of high school and college bands everywhere.
Back when high school budgets hadn't yet slashed the music program.
This group is possibly one of the best on the planet, great horn section, magic vocals, well done!
I was prepared not to like this being a huge Chicago fan and having seen them so many times live. WOW, was I ever wrong! Great freaking job!
This kid did a gell of job an drummer ALL of them did great!👍🥰😔😥miss Chicago/ earthwind FIRE ETEC ALL GOOD bands..the crap that's out there now music AWARDS isnt music to me..
Listen to everything, you will not regret it, they do Chicago better than the original. Remember, they barely speak English!
@@julieannkuster1999 Can't even compete, I really hate to call today's sh-- music, electronic drivel.
Same here… These folks are fantastic!!!
JUST PERFECT, SO EXCELLENT, TOP OF THE WORLD MUSICIANS
Does anybody really know how much joy you guys bring to all of the world wide ,life long Chicago fans???? Don't come to America guys because we won't let you go!!!!! Sergey, the way you rip that guitar and sing the American women will definitively make you stay!!!! Seriously, may God continue to bless you all now and forever.............
Gregory Crnkovic chicago doesnt want them to come I think Theyd have to compete with them for concertgoers ....yea I'm serious
@Texbluejeans Uh no. Not better than the original. Each one stands on its own merit.
New York City on 1/8/19, Los Angelis, CA on 1/11, 12 &13/2019, Rosemont, IL on 1/15/18, Highwood, IL on 1/18/19, Dallas, TX on 1/20/18 and Clearwater, FL on 1/22/19.
What he said … for reals!!
Correct 💚💚💚💚
Incredible. Even the vocalists on these covers SOUND like the original!
The intro of this song is one of the most beautiful things ever recorded!
They sound exactly like the band Chicago. Absolutely Phenomenal!!!!
Was raised in the 70s and 80s they just do it better then first guys😮
As a former horn player and band leader for a popular group here in the USA, let me just say that these guys are amazing. As good as Chicago, who I love dearly.
Anyone I may know?
@@pacificcoastpiper3949 Kurt Hansen was with Head East, if this is the same guy.
I have seen this group 7 times in my life a great group
It is so good because they are using the original music and not playing the horns you hear.
@@joebeardfw IF so, very cool. Head East was awesome.
I'm 59, live in Georgia ( U.S., not Europe--smile), and have heard Chicago sing this several times live over the years, and you guys sing this as well as I've ever heard it. Very well done, sirs....
I'm a few years younger than you but I also grew up listening to Chicago and they nailed it. What is even more surprised is that she didnt grow up speaking English. Playing jazz is tough but they are tight.
I've only just discovered L&F tonight and I've listened to every single thing they have on RUclips. Every song is perfect.. better than the original usually. But every nuance of the original is in tact. The engineers who mic'd these sessions are as talented as the players, really. I'm an engineer and musician and I can tell you that both are important to what we hear.
Ron, you're gonna miss some sleep late nights listening to L and F. Of course it's worth it. You can also enjoy the visuals and individual efforts the members of the band put forth. Be well.
I agree 100%. The studio work is impeccable. Everything, every instrument, every voice, is crisp and clear. This band sounds brand new and shiny clean every time.
Currently touring USA
As a musician who plays trumpet, guitar, and keys these guys are TIGHT! The horns are spot on and the vocals are better than the originals. I've played in several bands thru the years but nothing close to these guys. Thanks.
They are just so tight!!
University music grads who didn't get a gig. Brilliant players but not satisfied as a studio musician.
Great performance by one and all. I used to play myself. I still have to give the nod to Chicago, because after all they wrote it.
They’re great but missing Terry’s grit.
They are all in the pocket, great feel.
Unbelievable, Without a doubt the Very Best Cover I've Ever heard in my life. And this Chicago Song - is a Masterpiece.
The trombone sign off is beautiful - so damn accurate and so cool.
I have such a weird connection to those 2 bars of music, ive always loved that trombone sign-off, so good.
Composition:
Right after the free form piano solo, the time signature of the fanfare preceding the trumpet solo is, per bar, 4/4, 7/8, 9/8, 4/4, 7/8 and 4/4, then transitions to a section in 5/8 for 6 bars, then goes into 6/8 for one bar. The song stays in 4/4 after that.
Incredible guys! All musicians would agree and most musicians would NOT be able to pull this off perfectly.
Nice work.
That horn section though! Amazing!
From an American 50 year fan of Chicago, this is an outstanding cover of one of their best songs.
Good stuff in every way. I'm a 68 year old and remember this song being on the charts and being played on the radio. Hearing it takes me back to the care-free days of my youth.
How I wish I could capture those Care free days. Best music ever
I remember when this song came out, too.
Graduated in 82 from HS; Chicago was always tops in my book. Great Horns. Love this tribute band. ^5
First time I heard it was on a cassette tape a neighbor kid let me listen & he recorded it from the radio in 1971.
I just time traveled
This group has left me speechless, full of admiration remembering the music of the 70's. Absolutely brilliant!! Come to Europe some day pls. Ricc
Man, this is so incredibly smooth and good! Please do not stop making these.
The 5a r e mono mp n m
This is without a doubt my favorite Chicago song!!!! Saw them in concert ..... way back in the ‘70’s !!!! Omg!!!!!
Damn fine rendition!
All I had to do was close my eyes and be transported back in time to the greated era in music. Well, done gentlemen. Bravo
@Jim McCracken It's called a typo friend. Wanna make someting of it?
You said it right 82 Luft.
Not really, it's called being human
Maravilhosos!!!!!
kick ass drummer , sweet horns , excellent vocals..they have it all 👍🏻✌🏻☮️🇨🇦❤️💯😊
that drummer is incredibly strong and very musical
Some people come for the hot blonde, I'm just here for the drummer
You can tell they are having fun, as well as being awesome musicians.
It would be fabulous to see them in Canada!🇨🇦
🤗🤗🤗🤗
It's magic with Serge or Sergey or Micheal on vocals and Igor on the drums. I grew up listening to Chicago all of the 70's. The difference is barely noticeable. You put so much work into every song. It brings tears to my eyes how well everyone in the group is so talented at what they do, keyboard, saxs, trumpet, guitar work, vocals and of course Ksenia. Best cover group of all time !!!
AMEN !
I thought I was the only one who cried when I heard these note-perfect renditions!
Hang on, while I pick my jaw up off the floor!!! Perfect cover!!! one of the best Ive ever heard!!
Sure is
The attention to detail is impeccable!
I want to thank you for getting me through these times. I have tears in my eyes because I have no other emotion left to express the level of joy I experience when I watch your video's. Thank you today from CA USA 3/20/2020
I'm sadly going through these same depressing times with you, Corona virus and now riot's in the US because of another police murder of an unarmed black man.
I heard " Feeling stronger every day" on a local oldies channel and looked it up on RUclips. Thankfully I discovered Leonid and Friends and will enjoy and spread the word of their amazing musical talents. Let their music get us though 2020 and beyond.
Same here. Became a widow and have to go through these scary times without my best friend. We always used to listen to this song. When I watch this wonderful talented band, I Cry.
@@williambonson6846 L & F are a gift during these trying times. On the riots, look up the actual statistics for yourself - do not rely on the national media to inform you - on the comparative rarity of those encounters (I'd recommend Heather MacDonald's articles). B on B homicides are much more common. Look at the city of Chicago year-over-year.
Who are these guys?!!! They are phenomenal!!!
I was a huge Chicago fan in the day. This group of musicians are absolutely amazing. There are not the words to describe what a miracle this music by these people is.
Thank you Leonid and Friends!
Even have the dude in the background talking. Perfect.
For years I thought my recording was warped or something because I kept getting that " what I called interference". Lol. I had to watch this video to know that it was deliberate. I couldn't make out what was being said. Thank goodness for RUclips.
Terria Nesmith that’s hilarious!
Was kinda wondering if that was an original member
@@kurtroberts2310 In this video it was not. Terry Kath spoke on the original recording.
@@dav8388 Any idea who the guy on this video is? Seems a little out of place to do it this way.
These guys are nothing short of awesome! They're way better than what's left of the original band. They should tour the US.
robertwbingo They have just toured USA and are coming back this June I believe.
@@Mij1965 Thanks, so much! I'll keep an eye out for them. I hope they include Houston on their tour. There aren't many bands that I would pay nearly any amount to see, but, Leonid and Friends are certainly worth it.
My pleasure Robert. I would be there too if I lived in the USA. Hope that you have a great time if you manage to get a ticket.
@@Mij1965 I played Trumpet, Baritone and Coronet since age 10 and am 72 now. I grew up just north of Chicago and loved the band. These guys sound absolutely INCREDIBLE !.[ tight, crisp and perfect !..would love to hear what Peter Cetera thinks of these guys...Bravo...they should be very proud of their work ! Peace !
Coming to San Diego...?
I played one of your songs to my wife and I said to her who is this and she said "Chicago" as a huge Chicago fan you do them justice, keep up the great work, absolutely fantastic.
If only you knew just how much I watch your RUclips videos. I would love to see you live!
I cant stop. They are amazing!!!!!!!!
They summer tour (July/August) is in the works now! Check their FB page and webpage for cities!
This band doesn't need my approval they are outstanding!! Took me back to my high school days on the lakefront in Chicago (yeah) everyone who was there knows how beautiful it really was.❤❤
Those were fabulous times💖💖💖💖
I've seen Chicago 8 times in concert. This is amazing musicianship.
Wow!!! I can’t!!! This band is like voodoo!!!!! They’re superb!!!!!!
I actually don’t remember Chicago EVER sounding this good...Like seriously this band is so tight, and I love that smug look Sergey has a few times because he knows they have absolutely mastered it. God bless, just phenomenal !!!
Chicago was untouchable but this band does them justice.
I love everything about Sergey.
I heard them live in the gym at Lamar University in Beaumont back in the early 70s when Terry Kath was still alive...and they were definitely this good, even in that kind of sound environment. Don't tell me that the original band didn't sound this good..I was there.
145 people are either tone deaf or never liked this song in the first place, because this is every bit as good as the classic original. An awesome, flawless cover. Chicago would be proud.
Then why the hell are they even on this channel listening? Assholes.
@@82luft49 So they can post about how any Chicago song without Terry Kath sucks. The same 145 then go over to Foreigner threads and whine about how they suck without Lou Gramm. I'm still bowled over by how accurately these folks have reproduced one of my favorite groups of all time. 5 stars all the way.
@@cll1639 Thanks for comment C L L. Well put guy. Amen
Chicago IS proud! They put some of these covers on their own website!
@@pierresaint-laurent7927 yup....Robert Lamm reportedly is blown away by these guys! Bestest of all compliments. 🥰
Listened to this two times and it
takes me back to a simpler time
in life when I was carefree and
had time on my side !!!!
I grew up Listening to CHICAGO; and if anyone would have told me as a child, that another band would come some 50 years later, and would be BETTER THAN CHICAGO! I would have thought they were CRAZY!! And then, LEONID & FRIENDS SHOWED UP!! NUFF SAID!! 😍♥😘🙏
It is astounding that a group of musicians whose native language is Russian could perform a cover of an American pop band's music so well, that it might even be better than the original!
Much better than the original indeed....!!!!!
Agreed..these guys are marvelous.Amid sanctions vs Putin and alleged electgion invasions and super cyber
trickery and investigations, why not just lock Putin and Trump in a room and make them listen to this for a week
They're great but no....definetly not better than Chicago
the instrumentals are phenomenal but the lead vocal on this just has too much 'Russian- slugginess / slur' to be better than the original. He needs to spend a bit more time in the US and we can fix that! Still, a great cover.
I guess they have the same notes of music in Russia as we do here in the west. Although, the sax did sound a bit Russiony.
Amazingly !!! Brilliant! !!! Excellent to infinity and beyond !!!
As a Trumpeter it olny inspires me to perform with excellents.
These guys JAMMED...if we ever get to the Pleiades, I'm certain the Greens would dig this music.....check the time, man.
You guys are astounding. Love how tight and polished you are.
The Count is CORRECT..!!!
Very Nice!
Wow all I can say is wow these guys are amazing they show so much passion and energy in their performance
I just saw a live performance of this song by Chicago themselves dated 1998 outdoors. They just seem to get sloppier as they get older....this version BLEW AWAY CHICAGO BY A MILE!!!!
Channeling Terry Kath! Love the "cool" of the drummer! Brass is rock solid, strings hit the spot, and the vocals - OMG! Synth and bongos - man you're on it too. To the video production - hours and hours of Great work! You're havin fun and it shows. Share-Share-Share!
This is my favorite song from Chicago.. And when you play it, it's like hearing the original with touch of beautiful freshness...
WOW WOW WOW. That was 3 1/2 minutes of unexpected fun. Such a good find during the sad times of this stupid virus.
Very Nice. Almost brought a tear, remembering my childhood. At 8 years old, grabbed my bike in the morning. Rode wherever I wanted. Back home by supper. Nobody cared about time. I was a man at 8. Lol.
I used to play these songs in a band 50 years ago...coronet...crazy thing is i doubt we could ever sing a russian song so good...what a fresh breath of air!!!!!
Hands down the greatest cover band ever.!!!!
One of the greatest, but not the greatest. The Who in their prime were untouchable.
Again, Leonid and his friends hits it out of the park.
I'm from Chicago..these guy's give me chills they're so good.
These guys nailed it!!!! GREAT JOB!
close your eyes and listen... not sure you can tell the difference. Incredible
Oh... I can tell the difference. Better and cleaner than Chicago did it on their recording. They hit every nuance.
There's much less empty space too. The mix on this is much better than Chicago's.
All TRUE & performed live!!! It was like a trip back in time 😎
Terry Kath would be proud of these wonderful musicians..
Keep on playing boys..Cheers 🍻🍻🍻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Jimmy Hendrix stated years ago that Terry Kath was a great guitar player. Now that's impressive coming from a great guitar player. I loved Terry's raspy voice too especially in Color My World.
This is my favorite thing I've ever found on the internet. Thank you guys, I hope you're staying healthy and playing music!!
Rock on.
I just give them money.
@@isee7668 Wish I could. Unfortunately, I live in a red state in the US, so covid has me pretty financially stressed as well. I'll donate one of these days when things are brighter.
I hope your situation is better now that a year has passed (and this band is in the midst of a U.S. tour).
@@richbogovich I live in Texas so what do you think lol. But I'll check it out, and I'm moving out of the state by the end of this year.
Congratulations. As a long time Steely Dan fan, I am blown away by the attention to the music detail, just fantastic. Chicago too - immense!
This band is amazing. Every time I hear their covers of Chicago, et al, it literally brings tears to my eyes... reminds me when I first heard the songs on the radio, albums, etc. Leonid and Friends have given me hope for the world and bringing people together with their music. Keep bringing it.
Fantastic trumpet, trombone and sax!!!!
Always have loved “The Brass” ever since the sixties. Yes I’m old. Brass sections need a comeback. Great job brass section !!!
They absolutely CRUSHED this! It is the GOAT cover of any song I’ve ever heard by anyone.
One of my all-time Chicago favorites, way to go guys!!!
Excellent example of excellence in musicianship. Wow. One of the best renditions ever!!
Thank you....
I’ve loved Leonid’s covers more than the originals. They are amazing!!!
Same here; they're fantastic!
Nov. 19, 2019. About six weeks ago, I had a hankering to listen to some Earth Wind & Fire -- "September" in particular. And this link (Leonid & Friends) showed up in a RUclips list for the song. So I listened to it -- enthusiastically. I presumed they were some garage band from the [American] mid-west or someplace from USA. I saw how beautiful the woman vocalist is, and was amused by how the guitar player (whom I now know to be Sergey Kashirin) could NOT keep his eyes off of her. I enjoyed the video so much, I listened to more and more of the "Leonid & Friends" videos. I fell in love with EVERY SINGLE SONG. I was astonished to discover that they are all Russians-- with a Ukrainian and a Moldovan thrown in! And that English is a second language to them!! I am still addicted, and listen to them every day. The singer from Kiev -- Serge Tiaghiryadno - has an amazing voice -- so strong! You can see inside his mouth and he has wonderful teeth! But I confess my favorites are: (1) Serge Kashirin, for his smooth, easy voice and accomplished guitar skills (and sense of humor -- love the "Mr Sexy" tee-shirt); (2) Leonid Vorobyev, for being the master-mind and arranger of this fantastically talented group, and (3) Igor for his command of the drums! I also checked out Sergey Kashirin singing in his native language: The Real Bodrit - Superman, I believe it was. Just very impressed by all of their musical talents, enthusiasm, and joy in performing. Hats off to Mr. Vorobyev! PS Vasily -- kudos for your masculine, "gravelly" voice an your pride in being a MAN. Also have a crush on the tall trombone player Alexandr- something. Pure joy to watch and listen to you guys!
Exactly ! Serge and Ksenia are so happy in this song.
Incredible!!! Powerful Performance! Why does this not have a million views already? Thanks!
You guys are absolutely fantastic. I am 50 and a musician a drummer. I live in Canada and I love the early music of Chicago, so good so awesome. Way to go, thank you for sharing your talent. Brought tears to my eyes.
Leonid and friends, without a doubt, the BEST band in the world. Absolutely ASTOUNDING ...
Absolutely magic. It's just after 7 in the morning in Canada I just received an upload notification and I'm smiling. Thanks guys.
Oh man, ear candy to the MAX! The recorded quality and performance is top drawer, better than the original. I know what time it is---time to give you guys 5 thumbs up!👍👍👍👍👍
I LUV IT
I honestly don't have a word to describe this. All of Leonid and Friends covers are unbelievably good but this one is off the scale. If there is anything better than perfection this is it.
Totally agree with you Doug..!!!!
I think that this cover could possibly surpass the original! I am a Chicago fan grew up listening to this great music. Leonid & Friends is one of best big sounding groups currently on the planet. Musicianship is spot on and vocals off the scale! Big fan of original and current covers of some great music! D
OMG!!! Close your eyes and IT IS the real sound brought back to our world all over again!!! Thank You 😊
Nice job guys. From a Chicago fan for 50+ years. Hello from America.
Jesus Christ!!!
This IS Chicago!!!
Bravo!!!!!!!!
Brilliant!!
OMG! This performance is awesome! And yes,! I would pay to listen to these guys...
would not b dissapointed
Sergio I saw the band in Los Angeles and it was the greatest concert experience I ever had. Next this Summer at Sonoma County Fair. You'd love them!
@@eddiemelikian2440 I can only imagine! The good news is that they are coming to San Diego in August! Already have tickets!
Wow! That was "Flawless!" If Chicago ever retires, you guys better hit the road! I'd paid to see you!
Oh yea!!! :-)
When these guys hit the road, Chicago decided to retire!