Watch the live version at Tanglewood 1970. They are even better live. This song is about someone trying to write a song and he notices it is 25 or 26 minutes to 4 am.
The alternative explanation is that it is about two forms of LSD which had different effects. Robert Lamm said in interviews it was about trying to write a song but he may have had good reasons to say that.
This song is written by their keyboardist Robert Lamm. He's stated that the song came about with he was in the studio between "25 or 26 to 4am" with writer's block trying to find something to write about. So he decided to write about his feelings about the writers block and the way it made him feel so tired at that hour of the morning. Really good tune and a good reaction to it. Thanks.
LOL 66 years old and never knew what this song was about. Of course, have loved Chicago since the 70's. Thanks for the enlightenment. Makes a whole lot more sense now.
Their guitarist, Terry Kath, was one of the best but died young in a shooting accident. As others have suggested, the live Tanglewood version of this is amazing and really shows what a wizard Terry was on the guitar.
Aileen, I truly believe that you are reincarnated soul from the 60's and 70's revisiting music from your former life. The joy always shows on your face.
Indeed well said... She's realizing the variety of the genres... She's even dipping her foot into the era of the songwriters as she has on her list Gordon Lightfoot's The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Have a great day 😊👍
Aileen, I was a sophomore in high school when this song hit the airwaves, and it was HUGE. Even the teachers, (most of whom were not into rock music,) liked it. Hell, even my PARENTS liked it.
I'm glad I am as old as I am. I got to live through all the great music. I am constantly amazed that people have never heard of bands like The Doors, Chicago, etc. I love your appreciation of all music, Aileen 🖤
Great band from the 70's-80's. They were a rock & roll band with horns & blended elements of classical music, jazz, R&B, & pop music. They had a lot of great songs such as "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?", "Beginnings", "Feelin' Stronger Everyday", "Questions 67 & 68", "I'm A Man", "If You Leave Me Now", "Hard To Say I'm Sorry", "Saturday In The Park", "Colour My World", "You're The Inspiration", "Will You Still Love Me?", "Look Away", "Old Days" etc.
Go dig up their debut album when they were known as The Chicago Transit Authority and play these two tracks: "Introduction" and "Poem 58". Guitar player Terry Kath wrote "Introduction" and sang lead vocals. He was called "The White Ray Charles" by his bandmates. Soulful baritone voice! "Poem 58" is nine minutes of PURE FUNK led by Terry Kath on guitar, Danny Seraphine on drums, and Peter Cetera on bass. Kath's guitar will make you want an ice pack for your jaw after you pick it up from the floor! When they were "The Chicago Transit Authority", they were the house band at the Whisky a Go Go in LA. One night between sets, Jimi Hendrix, who was in the audience, went to their dressing room after catching their first set. He approached their sax player Walt Parazaider and said, "You guys have a horn section that sounds like one set of lungs and a guitar player that's better than me! You wanna go on the road?" They said "YEAH!". And that's how they became Hendrix's opening act on a national arena tour.
Beginnings and Questions 67 & 68 from the same album too. Listen to all of Chicago II album. Many of the songs are movements so it is best to listen to it from beginning to end.
Yeps. I was just reading about it to find out. I remember when a lot of people thought it was about speed. But I never thought that fit the vibe at all. I actually played in a metal band in the 80's that did have a song about it. Note: Don't do speed, folks. It's all bad.
Yes it was written by keyboardist and lead singer Robert Lamm. They featured 3 lead singers bassist Peter Cetera and lead guitarist Terry Kath(RIP). The music for this song was done primarily by trombonist James Pankow. They are still touring today with 3 original members Robert, James, and trumpet player Lee Louchnane. My favorite band all time.
YEa, for year all I ever heard was people thinking it was 25 or 624. The lyric LITERALLY tell you that its time cause he is telling a story and if people would listen and understand the story they would get it.
"Make Me Smile" is the beginning of a 13 minute track called "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon." It was released as a single, as was another part of the Ballet, "Color My World." A simple and beautiful melody. Sung by Terry Kath.
The band was on a crunch to push out a last track for this album. They had rented a space away from all distractions and sitting around all night hammering out the music but had no words. Someone came into the room; it was a janitor. One of the band members asked him what time it was. He looked at his wrist and said I don't have a watch on but its about 25 or 6 to 4 in the morning. If this is Your Jam they have a bunch like it. Try "Saturday in the park", "Make me smile" or "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" All are in this same genre with a happy strong jazzy summer feel.
Original Chicago 1968-1978 is a giant rabbit hole of hits. Later after Terry Kath (lead guitar) dies they become a power ballad band in the 80s and 90s with occasional memories of past glory. Three lead singers, this is Peter Cetera (bass), you should check out Saturday in the Park to hear Robert Lamm (keyboard) on lead and Make Me Smile to hear Kath lead.
My two favourite songs by Chicago are this, and "If You Leave Me Now". Both are tattooed deep inside my musical heart. I'm happy to see how much you enjoyed "25 or 6 to 4"
I saw that look, I felt that shiver! That’s the reason I love reaction videos! This band is like no other. Chicago, REO Speedwagon and Styx are all from Illinois and some of the most incredible bands that Rock ever knew. The voices alone can make you cry or get up and dance across the room. The music is on another level.
Definitely check out the live at Tanglewood performance (long version). The late, great Terry Kath tears it up and the rest of the band, all showing their talent and creativity. A performance for the ages that helps solidify the legend of Terry Kath.
When Jimi Hendrix himself calls your guitarist his favorite, you know you have someone special. RIP Terry Kath. BTW, the song is about having writer's block.
Unfortunately, the cheesy 80's ballads make up the majority of their "biggest hits" if you go by stats (Look Away being their only US #1). From this era, I would say this song was bigger than "Saturday," but it's close.
You definitely need to watch the LIVE version. They are incredible... Also, they were the first band I saw in concert when I was 15.... 40 years ago. It was amazing..
Huey Lewis and The News has/had a dedicated sax player and later had the Tower of Power horn section on their albums. Take a deep dive with them too. You won't regret it. 😉
This warmed my heart, seeing you light up and digging this song. 25 or 6 to 4 is in reference to being up late at night, he was looking at the clock and it was 3:34 or 3:35, Terry Kath was such an amazing guitar player, as others mentioned, the Tanglewood 1970 version is a must watch. Feelin' Stronger Everyday is another good one, to check out.
This was SO FUN watching you swoon over this song! Not that your reactions arent genuine, but this one stood out as extra genuine sauce, LOL...thank you for the smiles!
I usually don't recommend live versions but you really gotta check it out. It has a maddening guitar solo that goes on and on. It's amazing. He shreds.
In 1974 Chicago hosted a New Year's Eve special. One of the songs they played that night was the ballad 'Wishing You Were Here" that included members of The Beach Boys singing the harmonies. Check it out. I know you will love it!
CHICAGO is a "Super Band" they have been around since the late 60's and continue to tour today in 2024!!! Their concerts are amazing because they are high level performers!!!
Great reaction Aileen!! Better late than never - and that applies to ANY of the awesome music you're discovering on this channel's journey! Re-listen to this song, with the context that it's the singer, trying to come up with a song, and he notices the time is 3:34 or 3:35 (or 25 or 26 minutes to 4!) It's as simple as that - but man, is it an awesome track! Chicago has SO many great tracks! Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is, Saturday In The Park, If You Leave Me Now, Beginnings, Hard To Say I'm Sorry, I'm A Man, Hard Habit To Break...all essential tracks...and so much more! Cheers!
You are in for quite the ride with Chicago! You need to listen to their live versionn of this song at Tanglewood. You'll love it. They have a very deep and great catalog. Enjoy!
a work buddy of mine from a few jobs ago used to know the singer from this band, peter cetera, during the 80's and early 90's. he was a professional musician for many years. he told me once that his brother, who was also a professional musician, didn't believe that he was friends with peter. so one time when his brother was visiting him in L.A., he invited his brother to a recording studio. according to my buddy, when they walked in, peter was there mixing a song or whatever, and looks up and sees him and says "hey jack, how are you doing?" (jack is literally my buddy's name) and his brother was dumbfounded.
Chicago is awesome! There is a contemporary band that has picked up the standard from Chicago and ran with it. Check out any "Leonid and Friends" live or studio performances.
As a guy who is old enough to be your father, Aileen, it's great to see some of the younger generation appreciate timeless and incredible music in a world that has become a musical wasteland. I wish my nephews and nieces had the same appreciation.
There are two eras of Chicago. There's the Terry Kath era with their original guitarist from their founding on February 14, 1967 to Terry's accidental death on January 23, 1978, and then the post-Kath sappy ballad era. With Terry in the band, they were a kick-ass rock band that blended prog rock, jazz, blues, funk, R&B, and Latin percussion (adding Laudir de Oliviera starting on Chicago VI as a session percussion player, full member after Chicago VII). I grew up in their Terry Kath era and the later stuff went to disco then soft pop which was a commercial success but does not appeal to me. Folks who discovered them in the pop era of "Hard To Say I'm Sorry" under Peter Cetera and David Foster's soft influence would be stunned to find out they had real balls in their early years.
@@CharlesPhillips-no3sz Yeah, it's called "selling out". Unfortunately, it can be the only recourse for musicians in a Capitalist economy, but the industry is content pander to the LCD.
@@DerekDominoes regardless of how much one dislikes Foster, he pulled the band out of the musical gutter and gave them a fresh start. The band was ready to split, and Foster replaced Serraphine because he couldn’t produce anymore original sounding drum beats, then he along with Cetera, wrote some softer songs and power ballads, and that made the band relevant again. To this day they owe their continued success to Foster.
Another song from Chicago that I love is called “beginnings”. I believe it is also from 1970. Also there is a version of 25 or 6 to 4 live from Tanglewood that almost all reactors do because it is so damn good live and such a cool video featuring the legendary Terry Kath on Lead Guitar ❤.
Legendary vocalist (and bassist): Peter Cetera. Legendary guitarist: Terry Kath. Legendary band: Chicago. Yeah. There is no real equivalent to this first album (Chicago Transit Authority), but every track is killer. Enjoy.
Welcome to the music of Chicago. For those of us who grew up when these songs were on the charts, it is an indelible part of our existence. The first ten years with guitarist Terry Kath are a favorite for many of us, as the band definitely changed direction for many years after. Some of that change, to be fair, kept them scoring on the charts to be sure. But 25 or 6 To 4 is early Chicago at its finest, and definitely my personal favorite. I suggest you dig deep into this catalog. At their core, they are The Rock Band with Horns! It's magical stuff.
A Huge Monster Hit for Chicago during my youth in the 70s and still played every day on Classic Rock radio stations 📻across this country. And Chicago has Dozens of Hits and many great songs that stand the test of time 👍🎶🎸🎤🎺🥁🎷🎹🎼✌
A Chicago song you really need to react to next is "Introduction" from their first album titled "Chicago Transit Authority." It encompasses everything Chicago was when they first started in the late 60's.
Yes "Introduction" is the perfect introduction to that masterpiece of a debut album Chicago Transit Autnority and a must listen introductory tune of the band.
Man you just articulated what is going on with all the different instruments and nuances and subtleties and explosions the synchronization of all these different flavors melding into a multi variety of flavor and is potent energy which is a rush in a high!
Great band. Terry Kath on guitar, Peter Cetera on bass and vocals, and Danny Seraphine on drums. They have so many hits that to list which ones you should react to who take days! This is a rabbit hole you will absolutely love.
I've seen them several times. Back in the 70's was by far the best. I've seen them with Huey Lewis & The News (awesome). The last time I saw them, they played with Earth, Wind & Fire, which was phenomenal. Two completely different genres came together, and a massive party happened. But nothing can replace the late great Terry Kath. RIP
Chicago is a deep dive there are so many songs beginnings , Saturday in the park., brand new love affair ,wishing you where here (beach boys background vocals ) anybody know what time it is etc. also as mentioned there is a great tribute band called Leonid and friends who are just as good
This song is beautiful chaos. It's like every instrument was played with great anger. RIP Terry! I saw the pentagram in your photo. I would love for you to post a video explaining all your tattoos.
I graduated in 1981 and the jazz band in my high school did a good job covering it. They had a couple of talented guitarist and the horns section was from the marching band.
My comment is wrong! I thought my school was the only one who played this. I asked a lot of folks about this and was told they never heard it before. Thanks for correcting me!
We played it at the Friday night football games in the mid to late 80’s, too.. Even had a studio guitarist come in one week.. Total jam.. I played the tuba..
My wife and me got to see them in concert a few years ago and it was one of the best concerts we ever attended.A few of the original members were still with them. James Pankow, original trombone musician was having a fantastic time playing for the audience. Truly enjoyed making music. After over 55 years of playing you're listening Aileen to a master class of professionals who still enjoy entertaining.
You definitely have to listen to the Live at Tanglewood version. It's one of the few live versions of a song that is better live than the studio cover. IMHO.
I agree she should listen to that but I prefer the studio version. Terry’s guitar solo is amazing but Peter Cetera’s voice was off during that performance.
The song title refers to time. 25 or 26 minutes to 4 in the morning. He couldn't sleep and was trying to work on lyrics to a song. People mistakingly thought it was about drug use. I'm really inspired by the unbelievable passion you show while listening to these songs. I'm an artist and I also play piano and every time, after I watch one of your videos I have to go draw or play the piano. Thank you so much for the inspiration inspiration.🥰🐟💙
it was about drug use go watch the Terry Kath documentary his daughter an wife did for youtube his wife tells you what its about plus just listen to the lyrics stay up all night should i do some more its about doing cocaine i dont understand how people get it wrong o well PEACE OUT
Two bands in the late 90s that were swing/ ska/ jazz, were Cherry Poppin Daddies (Zoot Suit Riot), & Squirrel Nut Zippers (Hell). Both of their two biggest hits. They're fun, and I'm pretty sure you'll love them.
Hello to you. I agree with you. I believe on rare occasions that she might find a live performance that is just as good it is best to listen to the album version of the music of our time. Have a great day.😊👍
Hi Aileen! I'm hooked on hearing and seeing your facial expressions many different reactions. I feel your feelings sometimes when you discuss and analyze each video. You have pure emotions and a beautiful heart and face. Keep working hard and good luck in all you do .Music is a big part of my life and heart it's good medicine for me. THRASH METAL LIVES!!!!Peace out
To continue a true CHICAGO exploration, go back to their debut album called CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) and please react to >INTRODUCTION (their very 1st song) >BEGINNINGS (their first hit song) >QUESTIONS 67&68 You'll get to hear all 3 lead vocalists and get a great feel for their great talent for jazz funk fusion. Make sure you use the studio ALBUMS (not a compilation) because compilations sometimes use the short versions. Chicago was a SEVEN PIECE BAND, with 3 vocalists and 3 brass/horn players. One of the best bands of the 70s and of the rock era.
The guitarist, Terry Kath, was amazing. Jimi Hendrix was a huge fan of his. Unfortunately, his talent gets unrecognized due to his early death and the fact that Chicago's "big band sound" is what it's known for. Whenever I hear the radio edit of this song in the car (which cuts out the guitar solo), I flip out.
I received their Chicago 7 album for my birthday in the seventies and it was fantastic. Talk about diversity is their style, highly recommend you give a listen.
Let's not for get he also said that about a 15 yr old kid that was on tour with him with the band the moving sidewalks.. by the name of Billy Gibbons. The singer and guitar player of ZZ -TOP.
Yeah...that's more than likely a myth. That type of statement has been attributed to a bunch of great guitarists. I originally heard that Clapton was asked how it feels to be the greatest guitarist and he allegedly said go ask Prince. Probably none of those stories are actually accurate.
Interesting angle. I love that kinda stuff. Reminds me immediately of "God Allow Me (Please) To Play Music", a song about being allowed to write and perform a song, from a group that grew up with conservative Islam, another rocker with interesting transitions (but just a standard rock trio, no horns)
Or Billy Preston's "Will it Go Round in Circles", a song (which definitely has a melody) about a song that has no melody (much closer to Chicago's style than the Voᗺ track)
If you want more Chicago Songs: 1. Question 67 and 68(Closest Song to 25 or 6 to 4) 2. Beginnings 3. Dialogue Part 1 and Part 2 4. Make Me Smile 5. Feeling Stronger Everyday 6. No Tell Lover (Groovy) 7. Sing a Mean Tune, Kid 8. Low Down The Last 2 are my Favorites. 9. Happy Cause I'm Going Home (Bossa Nova Chicago-style) 10. The Approaching Storm (If you want to hear Chicago's mastery of their instruments, this is the Song for you) PS. Danny Seraphine is my favorite drummer. And as you have heard from 25 or 6 to 4, he is Amazing! If you want more of his awesome drumming, try Beginnings.
This song, which became one of Chicago's biggest hits, was originally intended to just be an "album filler" (a song that was made off-handedly because the band needed to fill the album -- hence the name -- and wa never meant for release as a single). The story behind the song -- allegedly -- is that the members Chicago needed one more song to finish their second album and were coming up empty. The various members of the group were sitting around the studio, too tired to be very creative, which is when Robert Lamm turned to James Pankow and asked, "What time is it, anyway?" Supposedly, Pankow squinted at the clock on the wall and replied that it was "25, maybe 26 minutes to 4 o'clock" (in the morning). Lamm was thus inspired to write a song about being up until Oh-God-Thirty in the morning, trying to write one last song to fill an album and failing. I don't know how true that story really is, but it sounds like a story that *ought* to be true, even if it isn't.
Incorrect. The song came to writer Robert Lamm's mind as he was up in the middle of the night after a gig. Band members were living in rented homes in Hollywood, they were the house band at the Whisky a Go Go. Lamm, the keyboard player, was awake in the middle of the night and staring out the window of the rented house and saw the flashing neon lights in the distance as he was composing and dealing with writer's block. He stared at the clock across the room and in the dimness couldn't make out the time, if it was 25 minutes to 4 AM or 26 minutes to 4 AM. He jotted down "25 or 6 to 4" as a shorthanded way of noting the time and had it in the lyrics as a filler, figuring he would put something else in later. In the daytime, he presented the song to the rest of the band and they kept the line in there. The other band members were not involved when Lamm was working on the lyrics, he was by himself.
@@craigw1911 Thank you, Mister Pedantic Ass. I knew some OCD jackass would come along and needlessly correct me on a story I repeatedly said might be false because they are such a weak personality they just have to point out how wrong we are. to make them feel better/
A great song, like a great book, leaves NO loose ends, it uplifts the listener (reader) and leaves the listener (reader) satisfied yet wanting more. There are VERY few songs (or books) that fill this description, but when you come across one, it is magical. THIS is magic!
You might like their tune "Does anyone really know what time it is" from 1969. I think they were still calling themselves Chicago Transit Authority. Great song. Glad you enjoyed their song about trying to find something to sing about at 25 or 26 minutes before 4am. Good reaction.
Thank you! One of my favorites! My dad took us to see Chicago when I was 12 and it was the entire OG band. As a young drummer, I was blown away. Perfection!
Saw them in concert at least three times. Loved them. Peter Cetera went on for a great career on his own. Back then, local bands played Chicago song in nightclubs so we heard Chicago songs every weekend. Upstate NY had Shades of brass.
One of the greatest bands of all time and you’d never heard of them. You make feel old… until you start jamming and then I feel young, jamming along with you
Watch the live version at Tanglewood 1970. They are even better live.
This song is about someone trying to write a song and he notices it is 25 or 26 minutes to 4 am.
The alternative explanation is that it is about two forms of LSD which had different effects. Robert Lamm said in interviews it was about trying to write a song but he may have had good reasons to say that.
I prefer the studio version.
@@johnthursfield3056 I guess that explanation could work if you are willing to ignore all the lyrics.
The power of the live Tanglewwood performance is a must see
Yes the live version from Tanglewood is a must!!! Terry Kath’s solo is 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This song is written by their keyboardist Robert Lamm. He's stated that the song came about with he was in the studio between "25 or 26 to 4am" with writer's block trying to find something to write about. So he decided to write about his feelings about the writers block and the way it made him feel so tired at that hour of the morning. Really good tune and a good reaction to it. Thanks.
LOL 66 years old and never knew what this song was about. Of course, have loved Chicago since the 70's. Thanks for the enlightenment. Makes a whole lot more sense now.
Sure.
Honestly always thought it was an Acid song. Lol
Thanks man. Had no idea
Very well said. A great song that was a fail... wait... we will use it!
This is a truly great band and I think people will say Terry Kaith was a criminally underrated guitarist. He's a master.
"Criminally underrated guitarist" Is a Perfect term 👍
@@markcox731 Yes sir
WAY underrated!!!!!!💯💯
He was one of Jimi Hendrix's favourite guitarists. High praise...
Jimi Hendrix named Terry Kath as his favorite guitarist !
Yeah, that live Tanglewood version blows your mind. A definite must see version.
Their guitarist, Terry Kath, was one of the best but died young in a shooting accident.
As others have suggested, the live Tanglewood version of this is amazing and really shows what a wizard Terry was on the guitar.
Allegedly Hendrix called him _"the best in the universe."_
He really wanted to take his own music is a similar direction as Chicago.
YES!! I was like who is this guitar god!? Then I learned about his death. That guy could PLAY!!
Accident ??
Was ating Russian roulette with a .38 im my memory servese right! Great band!
Aileen, I truly believe that you are reincarnated soul from the 60's and 70's revisiting music from your former life. The joy always shows on your face.
well said!
Indeed well said... She's realizing the variety of the genres... She's even dipping her foot into the era of the songwriters as she has on her list Gordon Lightfoot's The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Have a great day 😊👍
I smiled the whole song watching you light up ! Its fun seeing you enjoy something new that surprises you in a good way !
It's only right that the next song to react to is "Make Me Smile". 😂 You'll also get to hear the lead guitarist, Terry Kath RIP, on lead vocals.
Aileen, I was a sophomore in high school when this song hit the airwaves, and it was HUGE. Even the teachers, (most of whom were not into rock music,) liked it. Hell, even my PARENTS liked it.
I'm glad I am as old as I am. I got to live through all the great music. I am constantly amazed that people have never heard of bands like The Doors, Chicago, etc. I love your appreciation of all music, Aileen 🖤
Yep, it's a joy to see a younger generation appreciating the music we grew up on 😁
Great band from the 70's-80's. They were a rock & roll band with horns & blended elements of classical music, jazz, R&B, & pop music. They had a lot of great songs such as "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?", "Beginnings", "Feelin' Stronger Everyday", "Questions 67 & 68", "I'm A Man", "If You Leave Me Now", "Hard To Say I'm Sorry", "Saturday In The Park", "Colour My World", "You're The Inspiration", "Will You Still Love Me?", "Look Away", "Old Days" etc.
Actually this song was from the late ‘60’s when I was in high school
Watch 25 or 6 to 4 LIVE at Tanglewood as soon as you can. R.I.P. Terry Kath
Go dig up their debut album when they were known as The Chicago Transit Authority and play these two tracks: "Introduction" and "Poem 58". Guitar player Terry Kath wrote "Introduction" and sang lead vocals. He was called "The White Ray Charles" by his bandmates. Soulful baritone voice! "Poem 58" is nine minutes of PURE FUNK led by Terry Kath on guitar, Danny Seraphine on drums, and Peter Cetera on bass. Kath's guitar will make you want an ice pack for your jaw after you pick it up from the floor!
When they were "The Chicago Transit Authority", they were the house band at the Whisky a Go Go in LA. One night between sets, Jimi Hendrix, who was in the audience, went to their dressing room after catching their first set. He approached their sax player Walt Parazaider and said, "You guys have a horn section that sounds like one set of lungs and a guitar player that's better than me! You wanna go on the road?" They said "YEAH!". And that's how they became Hendrix's opening act on a national arena tour.
Fantastic Song 👍✌️
Beginnings and Questions 67 & 68 from the same album too. Listen to all of Chicago II album. Many of the songs are movements so it is best to listen to it from beginning to end.
Chicago has an enormous catalog of hit songs!
The title is when they wrote the song, 25 or 26 minutes to 4am. and it is about writing a song in the night as far as i remember @AileenSenpai
they were all really tired and out of ideas and it was an off hand reply to a simple question. And the rest is history
Yeps. I was just reading about it to find out. I remember when a lot of people thought it was about speed. But I never thought that fit the vibe at all. I actually played in a metal band in the 80's that did have a song about it.
Note: Don't do speed, folks. It's all bad.
Yes it was written by keyboardist and lead singer Robert Lamm. They featured 3 lead singers bassist Peter Cetera and lead guitarist Terry Kath(RIP). The music for this song was done primarily by trombonist James Pankow. They are still touring today with 3 original members Robert, James, and trumpet player Lee Louchnane. My favorite band all time.
Yeah. The writer was trying to finish writing this song lol. Actually. Lol
@aylbdrmadison1051
"Drugs are bad, mmmmmk".😂
People always overthink the title.🤔 "25 or 6 To Four" lterally means it's 25 or 26 minutes 'til 4:00 o'clock!🤭❤️✌️
YEa, for year all I ever heard was people thinking it was 25 or 624.
The lyric LITERALLY tell you that its time cause he is telling a story and if people would listen and understand the story they would get it.
25 or 26 minutes to 4AM when he wrote the song
One of my favorite songs by Chicago is "Make Me Smile". I'm sure you'll like it because of your comments here.
Totally!!! ❤
"Make Me Smile" is the beginning of a 13 minute track called "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon." It was released as a single, as was another part of the Ballet, "Color My World." A simple and beautiful melody. Sung by Terry Kath.
The band was on a crunch to push out a last track for this album. They had rented a space away from all distractions and sitting around all night hammering out the music but had no words. Someone came into the room; it was a janitor. One of the band members asked him what time it was. He looked at his wrist and said I don't have a watch on but its about 25 or 6 to 4 in the morning. If this is Your Jam they have a bunch like it. Try "Saturday in the park", "Make me smile" or "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" All are in this same genre with a happy strong jazzy summer feel.
Thanks for playing the full version!
Been grooving to this song for over 50 YEARS now... and it never gets old. So cool to see someone discover the epic music of Chicago! 👍
Original Chicago 1968-1978 is a giant rabbit hole of hits. Later after Terry Kath (lead guitar) dies they become a power ballad band in the 80s and 90s with occasional memories of past glory. Three lead singers, this is Peter Cetera (bass), you should check out Saturday in the Park to hear Robert Lamm (keyboard) on lead and Make Me Smile to hear Kath lead.
My two favourite songs by Chicago are this, and "If You Leave Me Now".
Both are tattooed deep inside my musical heart.
I'm happy to see how much you enjoyed "25 or 6 to 4"
Chicago is one of the most successful bands. I like "Searching so long" and "If you leave me now".
I've always thought it was Hard To Say I'm Sorry
I saw that look, I felt that shiver! That’s the reason I love reaction videos!
This band is like no other. Chicago, REO Speedwagon and Styx are all from Illinois and some of the most incredible bands that Rock ever knew. The voices alone can make you cry or get up and dance across the room. The music is on another level.
Definitely check out the live at Tanglewood performance (long version). The late, great Terry Kath tears it up and the rest of the band, all showing their talent and creativity. A performance for the ages that helps solidify the legend of Terry Kath.
And they started to play when the drum set was still being fixed!
When Jimi Hendrix himself calls your guitarist his favorite, you know you have someone special. RIP Terry Kath. BTW, the song is about having writer's block.
"Saturday In The Park" is Chicago's biggest hit, I think. That would make a great reaction video.
Unfortunately, the cheesy 80's ballads make up the majority of their "biggest hits" if you go by stats (Look Away being their only US #1). From this era, I would say this song was bigger than "Saturday," but it's close.
E ❤n 😢
Oh god no. Thats song is to fruity and not even that good
@@Brandi6666 Fruity? WTF? It's a sweet song about enjoying life in the Park.
@@clh35I believe Feelin' Stronger Everyday is up there too. She has a lot to choose from that is very very good. Have a great day 😊👍
"Dialogue" is a pretty cool tune from them.
I want to weep that you never heard of Chicago before, but it is SO COOL seeing you discover them.
Chicago has one of the best horn sections ever!
You definitely need to watch the LIVE version. They are incredible... Also, they were the first band I saw in concert when I was 15.... 40 years ago. It was amazing..
Huey Lewis and The News has/had a dedicated sax player and later had the Tower of Power horn section on their albums. Take a deep dive with them too. You won't regret it. 😉
Terry Kath with one of the all time wah-wah freakouts.
Tragically gone way too soon.
This warmed my heart, seeing you light up and digging this song. 25 or 6 to 4 is in reference to being up late at night, he was looking at the clock and it was 3:34 or 3:35, Terry Kath was such an amazing guitar player, as others mentioned, the Tanglewood 1970 version is a must watch. Feelin' Stronger Everyday is another good one, to check out.
I love that you love this!!! Sooooo cool seeing someone hear it for the first time🤗 Thank you
This was SO FUN watching you swoon over this song! Not that your reactions arent genuine, but this one stood out as extra genuine sauce, LOL...thank you for the smiles!
Absolutely a wonderful reaction!
So many. Only The Beginning, Make Me Smile, (I've Been) Searching So Long and Feelin Stronger Every Day for starters.
I usually don't recommend live versions but you really gotta check it out. It has a maddening guitar solo that goes on and on. It's amazing. He shreds.
In 1974 Chicago hosted a New Year's Eve special. One of the songs they played that night was the ballad 'Wishing You Were Here" that included members of The Beach Boys singing the harmonies. Check it out. I know you will love it!
CHICAGO is a "Super Band" they have been around since the late 60's and continue to tour today in 2024!!! Their concerts are amazing because they are high level performers!!!
Yes sounddoctor they fucking rule
Great reaction Aileen!! Better late than never - and that applies to ANY of the awesome music you're discovering on this channel's journey!
Re-listen to this song, with the context that it's the singer, trying to come up with a song, and he notices the time is 3:34 or 3:35 (or 25 or 26 minutes to 4!) It's as simple as that - but man, is it an awesome track!
Chicago has SO many great tracks!
Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is, Saturday In The Park, If You Leave Me Now, Beginnings, Hard To Say I'm Sorry, I'm A Man, Hard Habit To Break...all essential tracks...and so much more! Cheers!
You are in for quite the ride with Chicago! You need to listen to their live versionn of this song at Tanglewood. You'll love it. They have a very deep and great catalog. Enjoy!
Feeling Stronger Everyday is a MUST listen to!
Chicago is a rabbit whole you want to explore Saturday In the Park please listen to!
a work buddy of mine from a few jobs ago used to know the singer from this band, peter cetera, during the 80's and early 90's. he was a professional musician for many years. he told me once that his brother, who was also a professional musician, didn't believe that he was friends with peter. so one time when his brother was visiting him in L.A., he invited his brother to a recording studio. according to my buddy, when they walked in, peter was there mixing a song or whatever, and looks up and sees him and says "hey jack, how are you doing?" (jack is literally my buddy's name) and his brother was dumbfounded.
Chicago is awesome! There is a contemporary band that has picked up the standard from Chicago and ran with it.
Check out any "Leonid and Friends" live or studio performances.
As a guy who is old enough to be your father, Aileen, it's great to see some of the younger generation appreciate timeless and incredible music in a world that has become a musical wasteland. I wish my nephews and nieces had the same appreciation.
There are two eras of Chicago. There's the Terry Kath era with their original guitarist from their founding on February 14, 1967 to Terry's accidental death on January 23, 1978, and then the post-Kath sappy ballad era. With Terry in the band, they were a kick-ass rock band that blended prog rock, jazz, blues, funk, R&B, and Latin percussion (adding Laudir de Oliviera starting on Chicago VI as a session percussion player, full member after Chicago VII). I grew up in their Terry Kath era and the later stuff went to disco then soft pop which was a commercial success but does not appeal to me. Folks who discovered them in the pop era of "Hard To Say I'm Sorry" under Peter Cetera and David Foster's soft influence would be stunned to find out they had real balls in their early years.
MTV ruined everything.
That later sappy era makes me feel really sour feelings about David Foster.
@@CharlesPhillips-no3sz Yeah, it's called "selling out". Unfortunately, it can be the only recourse for musicians in a Capitalist economy, but the industry is content pander to the LCD.
Totally agree and Peter was a total cunt after Terry died
@@DerekDominoes regardless of how much one dislikes Foster, he pulled the band out of the musical gutter and gave them a fresh start. The band was ready to split, and Foster replaced Serraphine because he couldn’t produce anymore original sounding drum beats, then he along with Cetera, wrote some softer songs and power ballads, and that made the band relevant again. To this day they owe their continued success to Foster.
Chicago was the first concert I went to in 1974 at the old Boston Garden, I was 15 and it was amazing.....Music is the universal language...
Another song from Chicago that I love is called “beginnings”. I believe it is also from 1970. Also there is a version of 25 or 6 to 4 live from Tanglewood that almost all reactors do because it is so damn good live and such a cool video featuring the legendary Terry Kath on Lead Guitar ❤.
My favorite Chicago song.
Legendary vocalist (and bassist): Peter Cetera. Legendary guitarist: Terry Kath. Legendary band: Chicago. Yeah. There is no real equivalent to this first album (Chicago Transit Authority), but every track is killer. Enjoy.
Yes, there are many many Great Chicago songs. I've always loved 'Saturday in the Park' and 'Wishing You Were Here'. But so many others too.
Welcome to the music of Chicago. For those of us who grew up when these songs were on the charts, it is an indelible part of our existence. The first ten years with guitarist Terry Kath are a favorite for many of us, as the band definitely changed direction for many years after. Some of that change, to be fair, kept them scoring on the charts to be sure. But 25 or 6 To 4 is early Chicago at its finest, and definitely my personal favorite. I suggest you dig deep into this catalog. At their core, they are The Rock Band with Horns! It's magical stuff.
A Huge Monster Hit for Chicago during my youth in the 70s and still played every day on Classic Rock radio stations 📻across this country. And Chicago has Dozens of Hits and many great songs that stand the test of time 👍🎶🎸🎤🎺🥁🎷🎹🎼✌
A Chicago song you really need to react to next is "Introduction" from their first album titled "Chicago Transit Authority." It encompasses everything Chicago was when they first started in the late 60's.
Yes "Introduction" is the perfect introduction to that masterpiece of a debut album Chicago Transit Autnority and a must listen introductory tune of the band.
Man you just articulated what is going on with all the different instruments and nuances and subtleties and explosions the synchronization of all these different flavors melding into a multi variety of flavor and is potent energy which is a rush in a high!
Anything from Chicago live at Tanglewood. I would suggest "I'm a man".
Agreed the whole tanglewood concert is amazing
Virtually any "early" Chicago is fantastic and worth a listen. Thanks for sharing. Love your reactions!
25 or 6 to 4 = 3:34 or 3:35 The song is the result of an all-night writing session.
Sure.
They shoulda done some more.
Cocaine my friend cocaine!
Great band. Terry Kath on guitar, Peter Cetera on bass and vocals, and Danny Seraphine on drums. They have so many hits that to list which ones you should react to who take days! This is a rabbit hole you will absolutely love.
One of their best
I've seen them several times. Back in the 70's was by far the best. I've seen them with Huey Lewis & The News (awesome). The last time I saw them, they played with Earth, Wind & Fire, which was phenomenal. Two completely different genres came together, and a massive party happened. But nothing can replace the late great Terry Kath. RIP
Check out any of the songs from live at Tanglewood 1970. Awesome!
just simply gorgeous...and the song is an absolute blast of a tune !!
Chicago is a deep dive there are so many songs beginnings , Saturday in the park., brand new love affair ,wishing you where here (beach boys background vocals ) anybody know what time it is etc. also as mentioned there is a great tribute band called Leonid and friends who are just as good
Long version of Beginnings is my favorite.
This song is beautiful chaos. It's like every instrument was played with great anger. RIP Terry! I saw the pentagram in your photo. I would love for you to post a video explaining all your tattoos.
Every high school pep band played this song back during the 1970s. Extremely popular song back in those days.
I graduated in 1981 and the jazz band in my high school did a good job covering it. They had a couple of talented guitarist and the horns section was from the marching band.
My comment is wrong! I thought my school was the only one who played this. I asked a lot of folks about this and was told they never heard it before. Thanks for correcting me!
We played it at the Friday night football games in the mid to late 80’s, too.. Even had a studio guitarist come in one week.. Total jam.. I played the tuba..
My wife and me got to see them in concert a few years ago and it was one of the best concerts we ever attended.A few of the original members were still with them. James Pankow, original trombone musician was having a fantastic time playing for the audience. Truly enjoyed making music. After over 55 years of playing you're listening Aileen to a master class of professionals who still enjoy entertaining.
You definitely have to listen to the Live at Tanglewood version. It's one of the few live versions of a song that is better live than the studio cover. IMHO.
I agree she should listen to that but I prefer the studio version. Terry’s guitar solo is amazing but Peter Cetera’s voice was off during that performance.
Oh those horns! i'm a ska fan and horn sections always make me happy, especially when they're as massive as these.
The song title refers to time. 25 or 26 minutes to 4 in the morning. He couldn't sleep and was trying to work on lyrics to a song. People mistakingly thought it was about drug use. I'm really inspired by the unbelievable passion you show while listening to these songs. I'm an artist and I also play piano and every time, after I watch one of your videos I have to go draw or play the piano. Thank you so much for the inspiration inspiration.🥰🐟💙
it was about drug use go watch the Terry Kath documentary his daughter an wife did for youtube his wife tells you what its about plus just listen to the lyrics stay up all night should i do some more its about doing cocaine i dont understand how people get it wrong o well PEACE OUT
Two bands in the late 90s that were swing/ ska/ jazz, were Cherry Poppin Daddies (Zoot Suit Riot), & Squirrel Nut Zippers (Hell). Both of their two biggest hits. They're fun, and I'm pretty sure you'll love them.
So glad someone is reacting to the studio version. Big thanks!
Hello to you. I agree with you. I believe on rare occasions that she might find a live performance that is just as good it is best to listen to the album version of the music of our time. Have a great day.😊👍
Yes. Album versions rule, for the most part.
Feel the same here
Yes, album versions always first.
Hi Aileen! I'm hooked on hearing and seeing your facial expressions many different reactions. I feel your feelings sometimes when you discuss and analyze each video. You have pure emotions and a beautiful heart and face. Keep working hard and good luck in all you do .Music is a big part of my life and heart it's good medicine for me. THRASH METAL LIVES!!!!Peace out
To continue a true CHICAGO exploration, go back to their debut album called CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) and please react to
>INTRODUCTION (their very 1st song)
>BEGINNINGS (their first hit song)
>QUESTIONS 67&68
You'll get to hear all 3 lead vocalists and get a great feel for their great talent for jazz funk fusion.
Make sure you use the studio ALBUMS (not a compilation) because compilations sometimes use the short versions.
Chicago was a SEVEN PIECE BAND, with 3 vocalists and 3 brass/horn players. One of the best bands of the 70s and of the rock era.
Introduction is a great one!
Great reaction!! Chicago has a huge catalog of songs! GREAT BAND ❤
The guitarist, Terry Kath, was amazing. Jimi Hendrix was a huge fan of his. Unfortunately, his talent gets unrecognized due to his early death and the fact that Chicago's "big band sound" is what it's known for. Whenever I hear the radio edit of this song in the car (which cuts out the guitar solo), I flip out.
I received their Chicago 7 album for my birthday in the seventies and it was fantastic. Talk about diversity is their style, highly recommend you give a listen.
Jimi Hendrix is quoted saying terry kath was the best guitarist in the world. High praise. RIP
Let's not for get he also said that about a 15 yr old kid that was on tour with him with the band the moving sidewalks.. by the name of Billy Gibbons. The singer and guitar player of ZZ -TOP.
He supposedly said that about a lot of guitar players, and it's probably all apocryphal.
🙏🏽🙏🏽💙Rip
I heard that he was walking past and saw them playing and was instantly blown away by Terry's brutal force of nature that he was
Yeah...that's more than likely a myth. That type of statement has been attributed to a bunch of great guitarists. I originally heard that Clapton was asked how it feels to be the greatest guitarist and he allegedly said go ask Prince. Probably none of those stories are actually accurate.
Chicago like Supertamp are a huuuuge rabbit hole of rock, jazz fusion, prog, and pop to open,, have fun!
He wrote a song about not being able to write a song.
Interesting angle. I love that kinda stuff. Reminds me immediately of "God Allow Me (Please) To Play Music", a song about being allowed to write and perform a song, from a group that grew up with conservative Islam, another rocker with interesting transitions (but just a standard rock trio, no horns)
Or Billy Preston's "Will it Go Round in Circles", a song (which definitely has a melody) about a song that has no melody (much closer to Chicago's style than the Voᗺ track)
Seinfeld in music!
Or when Graham nash99 Of Crsoby, Stills and Nash)) was bet he could not write a song in like 15 minutes, so he wrote "just a Song before I go"
great band with so many great songs! some of my favorites are "Old Days", "Call On Me" and "No Tell Lover"
Jimi Hendrix once said of Chicago:
_"they have a horn section with the same set of lungs and a guitarist who can play better than I can."_
This is from when they were their early Chicago Transit Authority era. They became a sappy ballad, easy listening band as the years progressed.
If you want more Chicago Songs:
1. Question 67 and 68(Closest Song to 25 or 6 to 4)
2. Beginnings
3. Dialogue Part 1 and Part 2
4. Make Me Smile
5. Feeling Stronger Everyday
6. No Tell Lover (Groovy)
7. Sing a Mean Tune, Kid
8. Low Down
The Last 2 are my Favorites.
9. Happy Cause I'm Going Home (Bossa Nova Chicago-style)
10. The Approaching Storm (If you want to hear Chicago's mastery of their instruments, this is the Song for you)
PS. Danny Seraphine is my favorite drummer. And as you have heard from 25 or 6 to 4, he is Amazing! If you want more of his awesome drumming, try Beginnings.
This song, which became one of Chicago's biggest hits, was originally intended to just be an "album filler" (a song that was made off-handedly because the band needed to fill the album -- hence the name -- and wa never meant for release as a single). The story behind the song -- allegedly -- is that the members Chicago needed one more song to finish their second album and were coming up empty. The various members of the group were sitting around the studio, too tired to be very creative, which is when Robert Lamm turned to James Pankow and asked, "What time is it, anyway?"
Supposedly, Pankow squinted at the clock on the wall and replied that it was "25, maybe 26 minutes to 4 o'clock" (in the morning). Lamm was thus inspired to write a song about being up until Oh-God-Thirty in the morning, trying to write one last song to fill an album and failing. I don't know how true that story really is, but it sounds like a story that *ought* to be true, even if it isn't.
Incorrect. The song came to writer Robert Lamm's mind as he was up in the middle of the night after a gig. Band members were living in rented homes in Hollywood, they were the house band at the Whisky a Go Go. Lamm, the keyboard player, was awake in the middle of the night and staring out the window of the rented house and saw the flashing neon lights in the distance as he was composing and dealing with writer's block. He stared at the clock across the room and in the dimness couldn't make out the time, if it was 25 minutes to 4 AM or 26 minutes to 4 AM. He jotted down "25 or 6 to 4" as a shorthanded way of noting the time and had it in the lyrics as a filler, figuring he would put something else in later. In the daytime, he presented the song to the rest of the band and they kept the line in there. The other band members were not involved when Lamm was working on the lyrics, he was by himself.
@@craigw1911 Thank you, Mister Pedantic Ass. I knew some OCD jackass would come along and needlessly correct me on a story I repeatedly said might be false because they are such a weak personality they just have to point out how wrong we are. to make them feel better/
A great song, like a great book, leaves NO loose ends, it uplifts the listener (reader) and leaves the listener (reader) satisfied yet wanting more. There are VERY few songs (or books) that fill this description, but when you come across one, it is magical. THIS is magic!
You might like their tune "Does anyone really know what time it is" from 1969. I think they were still calling themselves Chicago Transit Authority. Great song. Glad you enjoyed their song about trying to find something to sing about at 25 or 26 minutes before 4am. Good reaction.
Watching you enjoy music I grew up with is just so much fun. So glad you’re here Aileen. You’re a delight.
Thank you! One of my favorites! My dad took us to see Chicago when I was 12 and it was the entire OG band. As a young drummer, I was blown away. Perfection!
Danny Seraphine was criminally underrated. The nature of the music required him to do so much more than most rock drummers.
@bobsandler4563 Absolutely!
Will You Still Love Me, Hard To Say I'm Sorry/Get Away , and Stay The Night are a few of my favorite Chicago songs.
Love your reaction, my favorite song of Chicago is Colour My World ..... Always a pleasure watching you !!!
Saw them in concert at least three times. Loved them. Peter Cetera went on for a great career on his own. Back then, local bands played Chicago song in nightclubs so we heard Chicago songs every weekend. Upstate NY had Shades of brass.
Love your enthusiasm for new music; this track always blows my socks off, no matter how many times I hear it.
A MUST HEAR Classic track,, Chicago "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" ❤
It's interesting that this song, "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," and "Babe I'm Gonna Leave You" (Zeppelin) all came out within a year or so.
One of the greatest bands of all time and you’d never heard of them. You make feel old… until you start jamming and then I feel young, jamming along with you
Please do more Chicago! "Saturday In The Park" and "Wishing You Were Here" are great ones to start with ☮️
One of my joys in high school was to play this in pep band (I played trumpet) during ball games. So glad you love this!!!
There is a great video of them playing this live. Great reaction! ❤