Seriously, you two should check out that Tanglewood performance of this song- I don't know anyone who is not impressed with Terry Kath's guitar work on this one.
THE TANGLEWOOD CONCERT !!! - Terry was on FIRE !!! - As others are saying Terry's guitar solo was unbelievable. Up there with the G.O.A.T. Also from Tanglewood "Ballet for a Girl In Buchannon" and "I'm A Man" - From the 1st album there is the grossly overlooked "Questions 67 & 68". It is their 1st power Ballad and Peter's vocals made me sit up and take notice of greatness. Then Chicago teamed up with the great backing vocals of the Beach Boys for "Wishing You Were Here"
I’d like to add something to the discussion of this wonderful song and it’s guitar solo. A big difference between 70’s rock and current music is that the solos were actually improvised back then. So, between this version, Tanglewood, the Carnegie Hall live album, and the three times I saw Chicago live with Terry, I heard six totally different and awesome guitar solos for this song. I miss that. Also, Terry did the singing on “Introduction” (which has a nice little guitar solo of its own) and it’s Peter Cetera here.
Actually, a neat idea for a series..Im A Man, first the original by the Spencer Davis Group, then Chicago’s version, then Traffic’s ( with Steve Windwood from the original Spencer Davis Group updating his song with Traffic in the mid 70s). Would make a great three-fer on one reaction for you guys!
Terry Kath is the guitarist for Chicago, and plays on this song. Peter Cetera, the bass player, was the lead vocalist on this song. If you want to hear Terry Kath's vocals, he sings the lead on "Make Me Smile", one of Chicago's best songs.
@@stevet7487 Does Anybody Know What Time it is? Questions 67 and 68, Make Me Smile, Beginnings, Dialogue, Saturday in the Park, Another Rainy Day in New York City, Policeman, and the mighty Take Me Back to Chicago are other great songs written by Robert Lamm. Kath or Cetera sang Lamm's songs as much as Lamm.
A recent album - Now has some great songs by Robert Lamm: Naked in the Garden of Allah, Free At Last...also, More will be Revealed. Something's Coming I Know
And "25 or 6 to 4" refers to Rob Lamm (the band's keyboardist and one of the main songwriters) trying to come up with a song idea as Twenty-five or Twenty-six to Four AM.
Their catalogue from back then is just about unmatched. They were unique, innovative, and extremely talented in many ways. 3 vocalists that all contributed to very memorable music.
Terry Kath!! One of the best guitarists I've ever heard!! RIP!! By the way, Terry Kath, Peter Cetera and Robert Lamm are three of the vocalists I remember most from their early works.
The story goes Jimi Hendrix was once asked, "What does it feel like to be the greatest guitar player?" Hendrix supposedly answered, "I don't know. Let's ask Terry Kath." I was fortunate that the first rock concert I attended was Chicago in 1976, before Terry Kath killed himself and the band morphed into the '80s pop ballad band they became known as. As far as those blase ballads go, I think their albums through Chicago XI stay in this vein, as XI is the last one with Kath. After Kath's passing is when the overall sound really started to change.
See the interview on The Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum channel called "Jimi Hendrix meets Terry Kath + Talks About Recording With Chicago". The first time I saw Chicago was when my high school and a neighboring one pooled our resources and had them play a school dance while they were touring to promote their first album. For a song from their first album with a lot of guitar soloing try "Poem 58".
It's great that you guys heard the studio version first, it's what everyone heard on the radio all these years. But on this song in particular, now watch "the Live At Tanglewood" video. Guitarist Terry Kath goes off!
Definitely the song that got me into Chicago and still one of my favorites by them. I love the lyrics because it's a song about writing a song! It contains one of my absolute favorite guitar solos too. Oh yeah and two amazing drum tracks.
Just a little bit of trivia. The second album, Chicago (II), sold better because of the hits '25 or 6 to 4', 'Make Me Smile' and 'Color My World' #nicknlexrequest. As a result, there was a resurgence of sales of the first alum, which did not sell all that well when first released. However, because of the success of the second album, songs on the first album began to chart better than initially released and sales of the first album did better than when first released. 'Make Me Smile' and 'Color My World' are both from the suite; 'Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan' #nicknlexrequest which takes up almost all of side two. 'Make Me Smile' in my opinion has an even better guitar solo than the one on '25 or 6 to 4'. This would be great to play in its entirety, but would probably get blocked unless maybe you interrupt it a lot? One of my favorite non-hit deep tacks is 'In the Country' #nicknlexrequest . Also, the four part 'It Better End Soon' #nicknlexrequest war protest song would be quite fitting for what is happening in Ukraine. Yes, Chicago did war protest songs. Also, the real Chicago Transit Authority in Chicago gave them grief about the band name hence the shorter name of the band on the second album. 'Does Anybody Really Know What Time it Is?'#nicknlexrequest , 'Beginnings' #nicknlexrequest , 'Questions 67 and 68' #nicknlexrequest and 'I'm a Man' #nicknlexrequest are all great tunes from the first album. 'I'm a Man' is actually a cover of the song by Spencer Davis Group.
All great points you brought up. I also love Terry Kath's "In The Country" on the eponymous second album. Terry's mellow ballad "Byblos" on Chicago VII is a fantastic track, and contrasts with the mind blowing guitar funk of "Poem 58" on the Chicago Transit Authority debut album.
@@debrabrabenec3731 "Byblos" reminds me of my high school first love. We were too shy to hook up back then, we're married to other people now but still friends 2000 miles apart and 45 years after we met. I introduced her to "Byblos" after we reconnected and told her what it means to me, and she loves the song now too.
I played trumpet in high school and I loved Chicago. Chicago III was the first album I owned along with a Creedence Clearwater Revival album (my brother bought them both for my birthday). A couple of my favorite Chicago songs are "Beginnings" and "Make Me Smile".
My wife & I saw Chicago play this song in August 2019 at the Biltmore Concert grounds in Asheville, NC. They sounded just as good then as they did back in the 60s.They even had some of the original band members. It was amazing!
Peter Cetera was the lead vocalist on this and Terry Kath did that smokin' guitar solo. Terry Kath was the guitarist that even Hendrix was jealous of!! 25 or 6 to 4 is and will always be my favorite Chicago song. I feel I missed out on them in my youth because I didn't grow up listening to them. Sure, I knew the hits and loved the hits, but I didn't dive deep into their catalog until recently.
Saw them live back in the day 14 times.....there is a "live" version of this song that is legend as one of the greatest live performances....1970...Tanglewood.
Chicago's producer/manager Jim Guercio stated in an interview that while CTA was performing at The Whiskey a Go Go, Hendrix said he wanted to produce the band. Guercio stated that he told Jimi "I need to do this Jimi, let me do this and then we can talk about it". Hendrix reluctantly agreed and asked Guercio to have Chicago open for him on a series of west coast shows. I'm sure there were some great moments between Kath and Hendrix during that tour!
On "Introduction", Terry Kath (guitar) was the vocalist, on this song, Peter Cetera (bass) did vocals. The other lead vocalist they have is Robert Lamm (keyboards). If you are looking for something more progressive by them, there is an instrumental called "Devil's Sweet" from Chicago VII from 1974.
I'm am so happy to have found you two! I love following your introduction to some of the best music ever - certainly the soundtrack of my life. For a gauge - I graduated high school in '78. The obvious joy you get from exposure to this music is truly heartwarming. BTW... if you find yourselves falling in love with Chicago - I would suggest looking into a Russian band, Leonid and Friends. They are a group of, mostly, non-english speaking Russians musicians who basically pick apart these Chicago songs and recreate them note for note - live. They're quite popular - I saw them at the Hard Rock in Dallas. They're truly tremendous. Keep up the good work and keep up the joy (bobbleheading encouraged :)
25 Or 6 To 4 was one of Chicago's best songs, bar none, and the signature song for the band. Big AM radio hit in the early 70's. You mentioned how "fast" Terry's guitar licks were. Terry picked it up from listening to the masterful jazz guitarist, George Benson amongst others. Terry apparently had the ability to combine the two forms with brevity and not over dominate. He knew the reality of spaces but shined in his leads.🎉
Luv you both .. this was my fave Chicago song back in the day .. I’m 62.. mainly cuz of guitar solo.. but it has it ALL and holds up!! .. what a group.. Terry really had a small handful of peers
I have read a review a while ago and to paraphrase '3 horn players with one set set of lungs, a demon on guitar (Terry Kath), 3 vocal stylists, a madman on drums, a killer keyboardist, and with Peter laying down the bass and such a voice>"
Been listening to Chicago since 1970... Yes the early years are so great. Make Me Smile Questions 67 and 68 and my fave from later 70s Street Player.... Thanks you guys love
They were great in both eras, but their earlier days, they frickin rocked. And they could've amped it up in the 80s, but they chose the safe and comfortable easy route. They got rich, why not?
@@61hink The disco influenced Chicago? Hardly! Can't go wrong with the fist three albums (6LP's), and you can endure the next four, but then they jumped the shark.
Great reaction. The late great Terry Kath on guitar. Jimmy Hendrix himself was a fan, saying that he played better than Jimmy did and that he was the best player in the Universe. High praise from the praise worthy I guess.
Chicago - Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon - Tanglewood - Be sure you do the 14 minute one because it has been cut up. It includes "Make Me Smile" and "Colour My World". They were cut out of 'Ballet' to meet the 3 minute limit of A.M. radio which was standard in cars at the time and therefore King.
A little bit of trvia for you guy,s Jimi Hendrix invited Chicago to open up for him on tour in 1968! And Jimi also commented that Terry Kath Chicago,s guitarist at the time, was a better player than himself?? Thx for the song guy,s! Clayton
At the very beginning of the lyrics: “Waiting for the break of day,” i.e. waiting at around “25 or 6 to 4,” which was still a good time before daybreak. In other words, around 3:34 a.m. (26 to 4) or 3:35 a.m. (25 to 4) . . . . Love this song. I was in my 20s when it was released, and I sat on the floor many times listening to the whole album, as well as their first album.
Correctamundo. I was hoping someone would point this out. The whole song is about being up late with writers block trying to write something. (Everyone came up with loads of wild theories about what the lyrics and title meant.)
Chicago was my first concert. I was about 14 in 1976. My mother dropped my friends and I off at the old Colosseum in New Haven and said "Have a good time". I can't imagine that happening today.
You can drop the needle almost anywhere on those first two Chicago albums and be blown away. FYI - this song was written by keyboard player Robert Lamm and the horn arrangements were done by trombonist James Pankow. The band had three lead singers: Peter Cetera who sings here, Terry Kath, and Robert Lamm. The voice on a song was determined by what voice was appropriate as determined by the group - the composer did not necessarily sing his own songs. They had three main composers: Robert Lamm, guitarist Terry Kath, and James Pankow. Cetera did a little writing and everyone contributed somewhat to arrangements. This song is a great example of their synergy: written by Lamm, brass arranged by Pankow, vocals provided by Cetera, and a monumentally great guitar solo by Terry Kath.
Chicago was a soul rock band with a ton of jazz influence... Terry Kath was also a self-taught guitar hero revered by guitarist - including Jimi Hendrix who looked up to him. If you saw the Tanglewood concert version you'd say the recording on Chicago II pales. The same with the song Introduction, they were ten to hundred times better live than on recorded albums. 25 or 6 to 4 is likely one of of Chicago's simpler songs harmonically (most their songs were quite harmonically complex - a ton of extensions and poly chords) -Anyway the verse is Am Am/G Am/F# F E ... and the chorus if I remember correctly F C G F (I always liked that descending chromatic country like 5/3 lick on the C chord - listen closely) the guitar solo begins with a cross between the A harmonic and natural minor (aeolian mode) scales...
Song (from just this album "Chicago" - aka Chicago II afterwards) Ballet for a Girl From Buchannon (which includes "Make Me Smile", "Colour My World" and "Now More Than Ever") and Fancy Colors. From their first album "Chicago Transit Authority" (Before the lawsuit that forced the name change) are: Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?", "Beginnings", "Questions 67 & 68", "Southern California Purples" and their version of The Spencer Davis Group (Steve Winwood tune) "I'm a Man"! These were some of their essential tunes. Many more followed.
I'm glad that y'all reviewed this. I heard this growing up as a kid due to my father playing this all the time on his reel to reel. I actually got to meet original drummer, Danny Seraphine several years back at a drum clinic in Dallas, and I purchased the Zildjian splash cymbal he used, and he autographed it. It would be cool if you would give"Devil's Suite" from Chicago VII a listen. Danny's drumming with brushes and sticks is incredible!
Being a hit or being widely popular doesn't make a song one to be ignored. This is a banger! Great drama, relatable situation, great horns and guitar work, and Peter Cetera's unmistakable voice.
There's a few sorties about Terry Kath. One was that somebody asked Jimi Hendrix what it felt like to be the greatest guitar player, and Hedrix said " Ask Terry Kath".
While stationed at Ft. Carson in the early 70's was forced by some of my friends (armed with a case of German wine) into a road trip to Denver to see Chicago. Well worth the hangover for sure!! A couple of us still in touch still talk about that trip!!!
Danny Seraphine on drums did some double tracks for drums if you listen carefully. You can really notice it during the guitar solo. He talks about it on a YT interview.
This brings back memories of my childhood me running around loose with my shorts and tube top barefoot and hitch hikers standing with their finger sticking out for a ride. Good memories
I first heard this and loved it a short time before I started learning to play the trumpet. Now, over fifty years later, I am honored to be in a band (Reck-n-Crew) that will be playing this Saturday night along with other Chicago hits, and dozens of other great songs by the bands we grew up on and still love. Thanks for sharing your musical journey!
Terry Kath was a real team player - he was one of the most talented guitarists of that time, yet played background rhythm guitar on many of their horn driven songs. He, keyboardist Robert Lamm, and trombonist Jimmy Pankow were the primary songwriters for the group in those days, while Kath, Lamm, and bassist Pete Cetera were the primary vocalists. Three suggestions - I'm a Man from their first album is a rocker that showcases all three of the vocalists; Beginnings from the first album is an upbeat love song which highlights the horns again in a fabulous outro; and Dialogue, Parts 1 & 2, from their fifth album is my all time favorite Chicago song that really shows off their writing and performing talents.
The band also put out a 4 album live concert box set back in the 70's. If you can find it, it is a treasure and a MUST listen! Came with a large 6' by 6' poster which hung on my wall for many years!
This was such a treat to see you two discover this awesome track. I can see Nick playing around with the solo sometime in the future. The live version of this from Tanglewood is a must see if you ever get the chance. This is a very talented band and by covering a second song you only leave about 100 greats songs still to hear by these excellent musicians. Thanks for making my night.......again! Have a great week.
Another fantastic song from this group, once you hear this song you can't forget that beginning hook just like you did. This group first became poplular while I was in high school. My brother who was in college introduced me to their music. This song came out while I was in my second year of college.
After what seems a lifetime of hearing this track, I only recently found out its meaning: trying to write a song, awake all night with no luck undecide whether to try to sleep or keep at it. Looks at the lock - 25 or (twenty) six (minutes) to four - almost dawn. The experience becomes the muse for the song - it has written itself! Kath's solo - blistering, Cetera's vocal - spot on, but often overlooked is Seraphino's drumming - world class. A classic.
Yes, and Robert Lamm wrote this song from his personal experience. Surprising how often he is left out when praise is being handed out by fans. He wrote their first hits; Beginnings, Does Andybody Know What Time It Is, and 25 or 6 to 4, amoung many others.
It's so awesome seeing a young, fresh reaction to a staple song I've listened to for over 50 years! Jimi Hendrix thought Terry Kath (Chicago guitarist) was the greatest, and I can't disagree. My first concert in 1972 (16 years old) was Yes, followed two months later by Chicago, both at the Arie Crown Theatre in Chicago, so it's really cool that you guys are reacting to both these bands now! React to the Chicago hit "Make Me Smile" next!
A simply perfect song! I still get chills from that exquisitely dissonant finish. I agree with checking out "I'm a man" I'm not generally into drum solos, but this is a full band drum solo. You will have to listen to know what I mean.
As a 16year old in ‘70,when this dropped,i rushed out and bought the album. Was NOT disappointed. Check out my favourite by these great musicians….Feelin Stronger Every Day. STILL sends chills today.
This is the song that got most of my generation hooked on Chicago. The song is basically about writing the song early in morning after an all nighter. 25 or 26 minutes to 4 in the morning. Terry was an amazing guitarist and a vicious vocalist. As suggested below, Make Me Smile is probably the next to try out. I saw them live in Toronto for my 16th birthday (1972) ... Awe inspiring night! There is a Canadian band from the same era called Lighthouse that had a similar musical bent (horn section) that you might enjoy also. One Fine Morning and Hat's Off To The Stranger are but two of their pieces that shine.
This is the Chicago that is so R&B / rock based. Later, Chicago became a ballad band - great if you like that. I personally like the older Chicago like this. Peter Cetera is lead singer on this one. This whole album is fantastic.....you would like "Beginnings".....fire....
Loved your reaction. For an up tempo follow up, do “I’m a Man” from their first album. It has two lead singers, taking turns on the verses, a long percussion break (by the drummer and the horn players), and tons more dirty guitar. You will not regret it.
I have never heard another guitarist copy Terry Kath's solo note for note except Sergey from Leonid and Friends, who also sounded exactly like Robert Lamm.
Make Me Smile! I had one of their early 8 tracks, I would listen to every night before bed. Color My World was also one of my favorites. Terry Kath really had the better voice out of the three lead vocalists…, unfortunately he mixed guns and alcohol together too much.
If you listen to "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon", from "Chicago II", it is 7 song cycle that starts "Make Me Smile" (album version), then moves into "So Much to Say, So Much to Give", "Anxiety's Moment", "West Virginia Fantasies", "Colour My World", "To Be Free" and concludes with "Now More Than Ever" (which was added to the end of an abbreviated version of "Make Me Smile" by the record company to create the single version of "Make Me Smile").
And to hear what they became..sad..they were one of the best bands in the world at this point in time..keep em coming' my rocky mtn friends..all my best,Kent.
Another epic song for me is Question 67 & 68 from the 1st album. I grew up with it as the theme song to the Minnesota Vikings pre-game show back in the 70's.
Your just getting started. Lots of great material. The late Terry Kath on guitar. They were a band with multiple lead singers. Peter Cetera on this one. If you want to smile try listening to Make Me Smile. Terry Kath on guitars and vocals a great drum part and horns out the wazoo. Lots of great music in your future. Can’t wait. Enjoy! 😀
“Listen” off of their first album, a proto-funk song with what I can only describe as “psychedelic cowbell” 😊 is a must-listen-to song. The song describes Chicago’s early days when they were playing in bars, struggling to get by, and trying to get the crowd to actually pay attention to their music as they were playing it.
![OUR FIRST TIME LISTENING TO [REAL] Chicago - Introduction | COUPLE REACTION & RE-Discovery!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XcXoNiWXRUs/mqdefault.jpg)
![OUR FIRST TIME LISTENING TO [REAL] Chicago - Introduction | COUPLE REACTION & RE-Discovery!](/img/tr.png)
Hey everyone! Thank you all for the feedback of the audio: we are aware and are actively trying to fix it! SORRY!
Stay away from the Tequila when you're recording. lol. I don't know what's wrong with it, but you'll figure it out.
You guys got this! I can't tell you how problems just seem to come out of nowhere. :(
@@TonyCouldveBeen The mix suddenly stopped working properly so the last few videos have been shit quality.. oh well. Thanks Tony
Solid now as far as I can tell!!!
Tequila a little is excellent maybe one or two shots for a song like this... Or just one perfect Margarita...😍
52 years listening to this song and it sounds wonderful every time.
Same and Agree!
Best Chicago song. Have to see them play this at Tanglewood. One of the best live performances In rock history!
The live version at Tanglewood is great also. The whole concert is worthy of a reaction!
Yep... Terry Kath unleashes the beast on that one.
I caught Bernstein's final performance there. Lovely estate and shed.
Seriously, you two should check out that Tanglewood performance of this song- I don't know anyone who is not impressed with Terry Kath's guitar work on this one.
This is the best version:
ruclips.net/video/9_torOTK5qc/видео.html
Definitely agree
THE TANGLEWOOD CONCERT !!! - Terry was on FIRE !!! - As others are saying Terry's guitar solo was unbelievable. Up there with the G.O.A.T. Also from Tanglewood "Ballet for a Girl In Buchannon" and "I'm A Man" - From the 1st album there is the grossly overlooked "Questions 67 & 68". It is their 1st power Ballad and Peter's vocals made me sit up and take notice of greatness. Then Chicago teamed up with the great backing vocals of the Beach Boys for "Wishing You Were Here"
Genius! Writing a song about TRYING to write a song when you now have great, hot band and you HAVE to keep the output crankin'. Damn.
I’d like to add something to the discussion of this wonderful song and it’s guitar solo. A big difference between 70’s rock and current music is that the solos were actually improvised back then. So, between this version, Tanglewood, the Carnegie Hall live album, and the three times I saw Chicago live with Terry, I heard six totally different and awesome guitar solos for this song. I miss that. Also, Terry did the singing on “Introduction” (which has a nice little guitar solo of its own) and it’s Peter Cetera here.
Their version of “I’m a Man”, originally done by the Spencer Davis Group, is a must listen!
Here's the link (live at Tanglewood): ruclips.net/video/DPZUgfOqAdg/видео.html
Yes!
Tanglewood.... definitely!
Actually, a neat idea for a series..Im A Man, first the original by the Spencer Davis Group, then Chicago’s version, then Traffic’s ( with Steve Windwood from the original Spencer Davis Group updating his song with Traffic in the mid 70s). Would make a great three-fer on one reaction for you guys!
the vocals are weird on that song to me.
The live version of this really shows off how good of a guitarist Terry Kath was...and the horn section is real horns, not a synth.
June 1973 - as a 15 year-old HS junior - my first concert was Chicago and the warm-up act was a skinny kid from NJ name Bruce Springsteen...
Wow. That’s amazing.
Terry Kath is the guitarist for Chicago, and plays on this song. Peter Cetera, the bass player, was the lead vocalist on this song. If you want to hear Terry Kath's vocals, he sings the lead on "Make Me Smile", one of Chicago's best songs.
Terry also sings lead on "Colour My World" and shares vocal duties with Peter on "Wishing You Were Here".
This song, was written by Robert Lamm, who wrote several of their early hits, is often left out when credit is mentioned.
@@DanielFrost21 not to mention the beach boys sang the back vocals on wishing you were here u can youtube it
@@stevet7487 Does Anybody Know What Time it is? Questions 67 and 68, Make Me Smile, Beginnings, Dialogue, Saturday in the Park, Another Rainy Day in New York City, Policeman, and the mighty Take Me Back to Chicago are other great songs written by Robert Lamm. Kath or Cetera sang Lamm's songs as much as Lamm.
A recent album - Now has some great songs by Robert Lamm: Naked in the Garden of Allah, Free At Last...also, More will be Revealed. Something's Coming I Know
And "25 or 6 to 4" refers to Rob Lamm (the band's keyboardist and one of the main songwriters) trying to come up with a song idea as Twenty-five or Twenty-six to Four AM.
Their catalogue from back then is just about unmatched. They were unique, innovative, and extremely talented in many ways. 3 vocalists that all contributed to very memorable music.
Terry Kath!! One of the best guitarists I've ever heard!! RIP!! By the way, Terry Kath, Peter Cetera and Robert Lamm are three of the vocalists I remember most from their early works.
The story goes Jimi Hendrix was once asked, "What does it feel like to be the greatest guitar player?" Hendrix supposedly answered, "I don't know. Let's ask Terry Kath."
I was fortunate that the first rock concert I attended was Chicago in 1976, before Terry Kath killed himself and the band morphed into the '80s pop ballad band they became known as.
As far as those blase ballads go, I think their albums through Chicago XI stay in this vein, as XI is the last one with Kath. After Kath's passing is when the overall sound really started to change.
Hendrix was a fan but that “quote” gets attributed to a lot of different artists, about a lot of different artists.
@@adamp2029
Hence me saying "the story goes."
I attended 3 of their concerts when I was in high school, in 73, 74, and 75. And for the record, Kath was also on Chicago VIII.
@@debrabrabenec3731 Chicago XI was Terry's last.
Accidentally shot himself while fooling around with a gun he thought was not loaded.
“I’m a Man” is another one to check out from early Chicago, it’s off their CTA debut album, and what an absolute jam!
Studio version first
One of my top 5 albums of all time. Thanks so much.
There is nothing, I repeat nothing ever today or the last 30 years that could touch this. Fantastic
See the interview on The Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum channel called "Jimi Hendrix meets Terry Kath + Talks About Recording With Chicago". The first time I saw Chicago was when my high school and a neighboring one pooled our resources and had them play a school dance while they were touring to promote their first album. For a song from their first album with a lot of guitar soloing try "Poem 58".
This song and I'm a Man are my favorite Chicago songs. Tytyty for posting.
I always thought that Terry Kath, Peter Cetera and Danny Seraphine would have made a great power trio!
It's great that you guys heard the studio version first, it's what everyone heard on the radio all these years. But on this song in particular, now watch "the Live At Tanglewood" video. Guitarist Terry Kath goes off!
He was on acid.
At 4:27..... "Wondering how much I can take...."
"Should I try to do some more..."
25th song... and 6 to 4. ;-)
Definitely the song that got me into Chicago and still one of my favorites by them. I love the lyrics because it's a song about writing a song! It contains one of my absolute favorite guitar solos too. Oh yeah and two amazing drum tracks.
Just a little bit of trivia. The second album, Chicago (II), sold better because of the hits '25 or 6 to 4', 'Make Me Smile' and 'Color My World' #nicknlexrequest. As a result, there was a resurgence of sales of the first alum, which did not sell all that well when first released. However, because of the success of the second album, songs on the first album began to chart better than initially released and sales of the first album did better than when first released. 'Make Me Smile' and 'Color My World' are both from the suite; 'Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan' #nicknlexrequest which takes up almost all of side two. 'Make Me Smile' in my opinion has an even better guitar solo than the one on '25 or 6 to 4'. This would be great to play in its entirety, but would probably get blocked unless maybe you interrupt it a lot?
One of my favorite non-hit deep tacks is 'In the Country' #nicknlexrequest . Also, the four part 'It Better End Soon' #nicknlexrequest war protest song would be quite fitting for what is happening in Ukraine. Yes, Chicago did war protest songs.
Also, the real Chicago Transit Authority in Chicago gave them grief about the band name hence the shorter name of the band on the second album.
'Does Anybody Really Know What Time it Is?'#nicknlexrequest , 'Beginnings' #nicknlexrequest , 'Questions 67 and 68' #nicknlexrequest and 'I'm a Man' #nicknlexrequest are all great tunes from the first album. 'I'm a Man' is actually a cover of the song by Spencer Davis Group.
All great points you brought up. I also love Terry Kath's "In The Country" on the eponymous second album. Terry's mellow ballad "Byblos" on Chicago VII is a fantastic track, and contrasts with the mind blowing guitar funk of "Poem 58" on the Chicago Transit Authority debut album.
@@craigw1911 LOVE "Byblos!"
Great info, requests and comment 👍 “Children play in the park - they don’t know …” 🤭
@@debrabrabenec3731 "Byblos" reminds me of my high school first love. We were too shy to hook up back then, we're married to other people now but still friends 2000 miles apart and 45 years after we met. I introduced her to "Byblos" after we reconnected and told her what it means to me, and she loves the song now too.
I played trumpet in high school and I loved Chicago. Chicago III was the first album I owned along with a Creedence Clearwater Revival album (my brother bought them both for my birthday). A couple of my favorite Chicago songs are "Beginnings" and "Make Me Smile".
My wife & I saw Chicago play this song in August 2019 at the Biltmore Concert grounds in Asheville, NC. They sounded just as good then as they did back in the 60s.They even had some of the original band members. It was amazing!
In the country is a great tune.... you should listen to it too.
Peter Cetera was the lead vocalist on this and Terry Kath did that smokin' guitar solo. Terry Kath was the guitarist that even Hendrix was jealous of!! 25 or 6 to 4 is and will always be my favorite Chicago song. I feel I missed out on them in my youth because I didn't grow up listening to them. Sure, I knew the hits and loved the hits, but I didn't dive deep into their catalog until recently.
Saw them live back in the day 14 times.....there is a "live" version of this song that is legend as one of the greatest live performances....1970...Tanglewood.
Me too!
Chicago's producer/manager Jim Guercio stated in an interview that while CTA was performing at The Whiskey a Go Go, Hendrix said he wanted to produce the band. Guercio stated that he told Jimi "I need to do this Jimi, let me do this and then we can talk about it". Hendrix reluctantly agreed and asked Guercio to have Chicago open for him on a series of west coast shows. I'm sure there were some great moments between Kath and Hendrix during that tour!
Beginnings is another good one. Live version at Tanglewood pls
On "Introduction", Terry Kath (guitar) was the vocalist, on this song, Peter Cetera (bass) did vocals. The other lead vocalist they have is Robert Lamm (keyboards). If you are looking for something more progressive by them, there is an instrumental called "Devil's Sweet" from Chicago VII from 1974.
I agree with Cindy, y'all really need to watch the Terry Kath experience. Great documentary
I'm am so happy to have found you two! I love following your introduction to some of the best music ever - certainly the soundtrack of my life. For a gauge - I graduated high school in '78. The obvious joy you get from exposure to this music is truly heartwarming. BTW... if you find yourselves falling in love with Chicago - I would suggest looking into a Russian band, Leonid and Friends. They are a group of, mostly, non-english speaking Russians musicians who basically pick apart these Chicago songs and recreate them note for note - live. They're quite popular - I saw them at the Hard Rock in Dallas. They're truly tremendous. Keep up the good work and keep up the joy (bobbleheading encouraged :)
Cramming for an exam or writing a song at 25 or 26 till 4:00.Loved cruising to this song in my 65 American Rambler back in the early 70s.
Kath’s solo is afreakinmazing.
25 Or 6 To 4 was one of Chicago's best songs, bar none, and the signature song for the band. Big AM radio hit in the early 70's. You mentioned how "fast" Terry's guitar licks were. Terry picked it up from listening to the masterful jazz guitarist, George Benson amongst others. Terry apparently had the ability to combine the two forms with brevity and not over dominate. He knew the reality of spaces but shined in his leads.🎉
When I think of horns and Rock, I think of Chicago! This song and ther "Fancy Colors" from the samde album have never left my playlist.
An Early MUST HEAR Classic,, Chicago "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?"
Luv you both .. this was my fave Chicago song back in the day .. I’m 62.. mainly cuz of guitar solo.. but it has it ALL and holds up!! .. what a group.. Terry really had a small handful of peers
top 5 guitarist of rock
I have read a review a while ago and to paraphrase '3 horn players with one set set of lungs, a demon on guitar (Terry Kath), 3 vocal stylists, a madman on drums, a killer keyboardist, and with Peter laying down the bass and such a voice>"
Been listening to Chicago since 1970... Yes the early years are so great. Make Me Smile Questions 67 and 68 and my fave from later 70s Street Player.... Thanks you guys love
How many bands had three lead singers not to mention horns and one of the best guitarist of his generation and those drums!!! Fantastic
I so envy you hearing these songs for the first time..... it takes me back to those same days.
One of the best rock guitar solos.
I'd stick with 60's and 70's Chicago. By the 80s they had become more of an easy-listening pop band (with many hits, to be fair).
Testify!
agree
Yeah... Occasionally deep in an album you could find a gem. PC got a little bit... No a big ego.
Amen, brother.
They were great in both eras, but their earlier days, they frickin rocked. And they could've amped it up in the 80s, but they chose the safe and comfortable easy route. They got rich, why not?
One of my favorite guitar solos ever! Glad you got to hear it
This is me in college! We were sure we could change the world! Where are the enthusiastic youth of today? Let's capture the day!!
Probably one f the best guitar solos ever. Thanks for doing this one, great reaction.
A bit of a heads up; when experiencing new Chicago songs, ignore any album after 1975.
We shouldn't recommend a full album listen of "Hot Streets" then?
@@61hink The disco influenced Chicago? Hardly! Can't go wrong with the fist three albums (6LP's), and you can endure the next four, but then they jumped the shark.
@@ForbiddTV That's EXACTLY how I feel. EXACTLY the way you laid it out. I endured those few mediocre albums before I finally had to give up on them.
I quite like the big band album and Stone of Sisyphus...
I Agree with Cindy P. Live at Tanglewood is super!!
One of the best musical venues in USA -my son was in orchestra group there for top youth players there - Boston symphony’s home away from home
Great reaction. The late great Terry Kath on guitar. Jimmy Hendrix himself was a fan, saying that he played better than Jimmy did and that he was the best player in the Universe. High praise from the praise worthy I guess.
Chicago - Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon - Tanglewood - Be sure you do the 14 minute one because it has been cut up. It includes "Make Me Smile" and "Colour My World". They were cut out of 'Ballet' to meet the 3 minute limit of A.M. radio which was standard in cars at the time and therefore King.
Written and composed by Jimmy Pankow
A little bit of trvia for you guy,s Jimi Hendrix invited Chicago to open up for him on tour in 1968! And Jimi also commented that Terry Kath Chicago,s guitarist at the time, was a better player than himself?? Thx for the song guy,s! Clayton
YES! Can't wait to see your reaction to this great song.
At the very beginning of the lyrics: “Waiting for the break of day,” i.e. waiting at around “25 or 6 to 4,” which was still a good time before daybreak. In other words, around 3:34 a.m. (26 to 4) or 3:35 a.m. (25 to 4) . . . . Love this song. I was in my 20s when it was released, and I sat on the floor many times listening to the whole album, as well as their first album.
I just love the idea of a guy sitting awake at night struggling to write a song about a guy sitting awake at night struggling to write a song.
@@joepegel Yes, well put!
Correctamundo. I was hoping someone would point this out. The whole song is about being up late with writers block trying to write something. (Everyone came up with loads of wild theories about what the lyrics and title meant.)
@@joepegel That guy struggling to write those lyrics was Robert Lamm.
Chicago was my first concert. I was about 14 in 1976. My mother dropped my friends and I off at the old Colosseum in New Haven and said "Have a good time". I can't imagine that happening today.
You can drop the needle almost anywhere on those first two Chicago albums and be blown away. FYI - this song was written by keyboard player Robert Lamm and the horn arrangements were done by trombonist James Pankow. The band had three lead singers: Peter Cetera who sings here, Terry Kath, and Robert Lamm. The voice on a song was determined by what voice was appropriate as determined by the group - the composer did not necessarily sing his own songs. They had three main composers: Robert Lamm, guitarist Terry Kath, and James Pankow. Cetera did a little writing and everyone contributed somewhat to arrangements. This song is a great example of their synergy: written by Lamm, brass arranged by Pankow, vocals provided by Cetera, and a monumentally great guitar solo by Terry Kath.
Chicago was a soul rock band with a ton of jazz influence... Terry Kath was also a self-taught guitar hero revered by guitarist - including Jimi Hendrix who looked up to him.
If you saw the Tanglewood concert version you'd say the recording on Chicago II pales. The same with the song Introduction, they were ten to hundred times better live than on recorded albums.
25 or 6 to 4 is likely one of of Chicago's simpler songs harmonically (most their songs were quite harmonically complex - a ton of extensions and poly chords) -Anyway the verse is Am Am/G Am/F# F E ... and the chorus if I remember correctly F C G F (I always liked that descending chromatic country like 5/3 lick on the C chord - listen closely) the guitar solo begins with a cross between the A harmonic and natural minor (aeolian mode) scales...
Song (from just this album "Chicago" - aka Chicago II afterwards) Ballet for a Girl From Buchannon (which includes "Make Me Smile", "Colour My World" and "Now More Than Ever") and Fancy Colors.
From their first album "Chicago Transit Authority" (Before the lawsuit that forced the name change) are: Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?", "Beginnings", "Questions 67 & 68", "Southern California Purples" and their version of The Spencer Davis Group (Steve Winwood tune) "I'm a Man"! These were some of their essential tunes. Many more followed.
I'm glad that y'all reviewed this. I heard this growing up as a kid due to my father playing this all the time on his reel to reel. I actually got to meet original drummer, Danny Seraphine several years back at a drum clinic in Dallas, and I purchased the Zildjian splash cymbal he used, and he autographed it. It would be cool if you would give"Devil's Suite" from Chicago VII a listen. Danny's drumming with brushes and sticks is incredible!
Being a hit or being widely popular doesn't make a song one to be ignored. This is a banger! Great drama, relatable situation, great horns and guitar work, and Peter Cetera's unmistakable voice.
Well, the radio version that was the big hit cut out most of the guitar solo. The album version smokes the version that was a hit.
@@61hink Good point.
There's a few sorties about Terry Kath. One was that somebody asked Jimi Hendrix what it felt like to be the greatest guitar player, and Hedrix said " Ask Terry Kath".
While stationed at Ft. Carson in the early 70's was forced by some of my friends (armed with a case of German wine) into a road trip to Denver to see Chicago. Well worth the hangover for sure!! A couple of us still in touch still talk about that trip!!!
Just love the fact you two love the 70s so much.
Danny Seraphine on drums did some double tracks for drums if you listen carefully. You can really notice it during the guitar solo. He talks about it on a YT interview.
This brings back memories of my childhood me running around loose with my shorts and tube top barefoot and hitch hikers standing with their finger sticking out for a ride. Good memories
I first heard this and loved it a short time before I started learning to play the trumpet. Now, over fifty years later, I am honored to be in a band (Reck-n-Crew) that will be playing this Saturday night along with other Chicago hits, and dozens of other great songs by the bands we grew up on and still love. Thanks for sharing your musical journey!
Terry Kath was a real team player - he was one of the most talented guitarists of that time, yet played background rhythm guitar on many of their horn driven songs. He, keyboardist Robert Lamm, and trombonist Jimmy Pankow were the primary songwriters for the group in those days, while Kath, Lamm, and bassist Pete Cetera were the primary vocalists.
Three suggestions - I'm a Man from their first album is a rocker that showcases all three of the vocalists; Beginnings from the first album is an upbeat love song which highlights the horns again in a fabulous outro; and Dialogue, Parts 1 & 2, from their fifth album is my all time favorite Chicago song that really shows off their writing and performing talents.
Hi guys, 25 or 6 to 4, was written in the early hours of the morning, hence the title, 25 mins or 26 mins to 4 am.
The band also put out a 4 album live concert box set back in the 70's. If you can find it, it is a treasure and a MUST listen! Came with a large 6' by 6' poster which hung on my wall for many years!
This was such a treat to see you two discover this awesome track. I can see Nick playing around with the solo sometime in the future. The live version of this from Tanglewood is a must see if you ever get the chance. This is a very talented band and by covering a second song you only leave about 100 greats songs still to hear by these excellent musicians. Thanks for making my night.......again!
Have a great week.
Another fantastic song from this group, once you hear this song you can't forget that beginning hook just like you did. This group first became poplular while I was in high school. My brother who was in college introduced me to their music. This song came out while I was in my second year of college.
Very cool! This is when they were rockin’ hard. Very cool wah wah effects.
After what seems a lifetime of hearing this track, I only recently found out its meaning: trying to write a song, awake all night with no luck undecide whether to try to sleep or keep at it. Looks at the lock - 25 or (twenty) six (minutes) to four - almost dawn. The experience becomes the muse for the song - it has written itself! Kath's solo - blistering, Cetera's vocal - spot on, but often overlooked is Seraphino's drumming - world class. A classic.
Danny kills the drums!!
Bobby Lamb wrote it.
Yes, and Robert Lamm wrote this song from his personal experience. Surprising how often he is left out when praise is being handed out by fans. He wrote their first hits; Beginnings, Does Andybody Know What Time It Is, and 25 or 6 to 4, amoung many others.
Ah please do MAKE ME SMILE next , from the same album !
It's so awesome seeing a young, fresh reaction to a staple song I've listened to for over 50 years! Jimi Hendrix thought Terry Kath (Chicago guitarist) was the greatest, and I can't disagree. My first concert in 1972 (16 years old) was Yes, followed two months later by Chicago, both at the Arie Crown Theatre in Chicago, so it's really cool that you guys are reacting to both these bands now! React to the Chicago hit "Make Me Smile" next!
A simply perfect song! I still get chills from that exquisitely dissonant finish. I agree with checking out "I'm a man" I'm not generally into drum solos, but this is a full band drum solo. You will have to listen to know what I mean.
The Chicago rabbit hole is well worth it 10 or 12 70s albums wonderful love you guys
As a 16year old in ‘70,when this dropped,i rushed out and bought the album.
Was NOT disappointed.
Check out my favourite by these great musicians….Feelin Stronger Every Day.
STILL sends chills today.
Feelin Stronger... is a great high. good recommend for NicknLex!
This is the song that got most of my generation hooked on Chicago. The song is basically about writing the song early in morning after an all nighter. 25 or 26 minutes to 4 in the morning. Terry was an amazing guitarist and a vicious vocalist. As suggested below, Make Me Smile is probably the next to try out.
I saw them live in Toronto for my 16th birthday (1972) ... Awe inspiring night!
There is a Canadian band from the same era called Lighthouse that had a similar musical bent (horn section) that you might enjoy also.
One Fine Morning and Hat's Off To The Stranger are but two of their pieces that shine.
Love "One Fine Morning!"
Saw them live when this album first came out. Amazing group.
Dialogue Part I and II also is pretty cool. It's framed as a dialogue between guys of differing political perspectives.
My favorite Chicago tune. Terry tears it up in part ii...
Poem 58 starts of with a solo. Listen to that!! Don’t miss it
👌 For most of poem 58 we get to hear Chicago's power trio. Love that.
This is the Chicago that is so R&B / rock based. Later, Chicago became a ballad band - great if you like that. I personally like the older Chicago like this. Peter Cetera is lead singer on this one.
This whole album is fantastic.....you would like "Beginnings".....fire....
You absolutely need to listen to Poem 58 from the first album.
I second that! Such a great funky tune!!
the late, great Terry Kath on guitar 🎸
Loved your reaction. For an up tempo follow up, do “I’m a Man” from their first album. It has two lead singers, taking turns on the verses, a long percussion break (by the drummer and the horn players), and tons more dirty guitar. You will not regret it.
And Cowbell!!
You need to check out Leonid and Friends version of this. They are Ukraine and play this song live in a studio. They kill it! Great song.
I have never heard another guitarist copy Terry Kath's solo note for note except Sergey from Leonid and Friends, who also sounded exactly like Robert Lamm.
They are actually Russian. Serge is from Ukraine and no longer with band. They are currently touring on East Coast and moving towards West Coast.
Make Me Smile! I had one of their early 8 tracks, I would listen to every night before bed.
Color My World was also one of my favorites. Terry Kath really had the better voice out of the three lead vocalists…, unfortunately he mixed guns and alcohol together too much.
If you listen to "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon", from "Chicago II", it is 7 song cycle that starts "Make Me Smile" (album version), then moves into "So Much to Say, So Much to Give", "Anxiety's Moment", "West Virginia Fantasies", "Colour My World", "To Be Free" and concludes with "Now More Than Ever" (which was added to the end of an abbreviated version of "Make Me Smile" by the record company to create the single version of "Make Me Smile").
In 1975 Chicago toured with the Beach Boys, was at Schaffer stadium 6/29/1975.
And to hear what they became..sad..they were one of the best bands in the world at this point in time..keep em coming' my rocky mtn friends..all my best,Kent.
Poem 58 has to be the hardest edged guitar song ever. With the horns thrown in, just spectacular.
AGAIN GREAT TUNE,SO LUCKY TO HAVESEEN THEM 1972ISH B4 THEY WERE CRAY BIG///YOUR VIETNAM VET CHICO
The virtuosity of Terry Kath on lead guitar and Peter Cetera on vocals and bass. A favorite of mine.
Another epic song for me is Question 67 & 68 from the 1st album. I grew up with it as the theme song to the Minnesota Vikings pre-game show back in the 70's.
Chicago
One of the BEST super bands during 70s !!!
Terry Kath was an amazing guitarist to see live. A great loss.
Your just getting started. Lots of great material. The late Terry Kath on guitar. They were a band with multiple lead singers. Peter Cetera on this one. If you want to smile try listening to Make Me Smile. Terry Kath on guitars and vocals a great drum part and horns out the wazoo. Lots of great music in your future. Can’t wait. Enjoy!
😀
“Listen” off of their first album, a proto-funk song with what I can only describe as “psychedelic cowbell” 😊 is a must-listen-to song. The song describes Chicago’s early days when they were playing in bars, struggling to get by, and trying to get the crowd to actually pay attention to their music as they were playing it.
Wow ! I haven't listened to that for years my friends! Great reaction as always beautiful souls ❤ Thank you ❤