One of my favorite bands growing up is the band Chicago. I remember listening to some of my father’s records that lived in my room as a child and putting on different Chicago albums. I’ve loved them ever since I heard those horns many years ago. Through their long career, their musical style has changed drastically. Their first album came out in 1969, and they actually released their 40th album today (even though it’s a live album from 1971). I’m sure you can imagine the changes in lineup, style, and instrumentation. This album was their 17th album, hence the name Chicago 17. This album was a tough one for Chicago because it marked the last album with Peter Cetera. Peter was a founding member, the band’s bassist, and an incredible vocalist. This album was also the 2nd of Chicago’s to be produced by the great David Foster. In 1985, the album won three Grammy Awards: Producer of the Year (Non-Classical), Best Engineered Recording (Non-Classical), and Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocal(s). It was nominated for Record of the Year, Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals and Best Vocal Arrangement for Two or More Voices. This is looked at as some of David Foster’s best work as a producer and one of the best power ballads of the time.
Listen for… Peter Cetera and Bill Champlin’s back and forth vocals on this tune. I love it towards the end when Bill comes in strong with “I’m addicted to you.” Also notice the strings toward the end of the song. There are so many epic moments in this song. I love the big lead-in and dropout around 3:10. Big drum fill, strings, face melting electric guitar. What else do you need?!
Hope you enjoy!
Song: “Hard Habit To Break”
Artist: Chicago
Album: Chicago 17
Year: 1984
Other great tracks on the album:
“Stay The Night”
“You’re The Inspiration”
“Stay The Night”
“Only You”
Empty Saddles · Burl Ives (1961)
This song takes me back to a hike on Mt. Whitney with my friend Jordan. We were tackling the tough trail, with the air getting thinner, but the music kept us going. We didn’t quite make the top but we had a blast fighting our way up the mountain and listening to albums by Sons…
Now being without you
Takes a lot of getting used to
Should learn to live with it
But I don’t want to
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Empty Saddles · Burl Ives (1961)
This song takes me back to a hike on Mt. Whitney with my friend Jordan. We were tackling the tough trail, with the air getting thinner, but the music kept us going. We didn’t quite make the top but we had a blast fighting our way up the mountain and listening to albums by Sons…
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Cheap Seats · Alabama (1993)
Alabama’s “Cheap Seats” feels like summer, and these past few days in San Diego reminds us that it’s coming soon. This song’s about the folks who show up to the game no matter what, sitting way up in the stands where the view isn’t perfect but the heart is all there. I’ve been listening to…
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On The Sunny Side Of The Street · Aloysio De Oliveira (1957)
I came across Aloysio de Oliveira’s name a few years ago while watching the old Disney film Saludos Amigos with my kids. It’s a 1942 movie that mixes animation with live-action footage from Latin America, and it was Disney’s first real push into the region. One of the musical moments, “Aquarela do Brazil“, caught my…
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Help Me · Joni Mitchell (1974)
The past few nights, I have been painting my kitchen. I’m not the fastest painter, but it has been peaceful in its own way. To keep me company, I decided to put on Court and Spark by Joni Mitchell. I have always been a big fan of Joni Mitchell’s music. There is something about the…
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the 1 · Taylor Swift (2020)
You might not expect to see a Taylor Swift song on this blog, but this is what’s been on my stereo for the past week or so. I’ve slowly become a fan over the years, especially after folklore came out in 2020. I’m a big believer in giving credit where it’s due, and regardless of…
My name is Michael Sanchez and I’m an avid record collector and obscure song searcher. My goal is to post one song a day that’s been on my stereo/turntable frequently. If you don’t like the song… too bad 🙂 I do.
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Sanchez Song Of The Day 