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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Back Stabbers – The O’Jays (1972)
This is such a great track from one of my favorite years in music. “Back Stabbers” by The O’Jays is all about keeping an eye on those smooth-talking buddies who might try to snag our partners. I’ve always loved this song because it stands out—I’ve never really heard anything like it in all my listening…
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Boats To Build – Guy Clark (1992)
At least 4 years ago, I created a playlist on Spotify for my kids called “Noah and Levi’s Goodnight Playlist.” I initially added a bunch of songs right off the bat and I’ve been playing it almost every night as the kids drift off to sleep. I don’t remember exactly when I added the song…
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Quits – Glen Campbell (1975)
This is a great track off of the 40th anniversary edition of the album Rhinestone Cowboy. Glen Campbell recorded this incredible album back in 1975. When you record an album, sometimes not all the songs make the cut. “Quits” is one of those songs. He recorded this song in 1975, and for whatever reason it…
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Georgy Porgy – Toto (1978)
This is a great track off of Toto’s self-titled debut album from 1978. This song has Steve Lukather singing lead vocals with Cheryl Lynn singing backup. You might remember Cheryl Lynn from her hit song “Got To Be Real.” This album was a great opening release for Toto. It had good success on the charts,…
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Written In The Stars – Elton John & LeAnn Rimes (1999)
This song just kind of popped into my head yesterday, and I had to listen to it about 5 times while I got some work done. I remember hearing this for the first time on an Elton John Greatest Hits CD I had as a teen. I apologize for the length of this post. I…
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 