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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Seven Days – Sting (1993)
Gordon Sumner, better known as Sting, had a very successful career as the lead singer and bassist of the band The Police. With The Police, he released huge hits including “Roxanne,” “Message In A Bottle,” “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic,” “Every Breath You Take,” and many others. During his solo career, he released…
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California – Joni Mitchell (1971)
In 1971, Joni Mitchell released arguably one of the greatest albums of all time. Many lists of the most influential and best albums have this one on them. “Blue” was written right after a tough breakup with Graham Nash (from Crosby, Still & Nash) and during her relationship with James Taylor. Taylor and Mitchell would…
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Washer Woman – Levon Helm and the RCO All-Stars (1977)
This is a fun track from 1977 by the great drummer and singer Levon Helm. This one is a bit of a deep track, but this album has been in my head and on my stereo the last few days. This album is Levon’s first solo album after leaving the band “The Band.” One of…
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Until You Come Back To Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do) – Aretha Franklin (1974)
When you look at the list of folks playing on this song you already know it’s going to be great. Piano/Lead Vocals: Aretha FranklinGuitar: Hugh McCrackenElectric Piano: Donny HathawayOrgan: Richard TeeBass: Chuck RaineyDrums: Bernard PurdieFlute: Joe Farrell And to put the icing on the cake, the song was written by Morris Broadnax, Clarence Paul and…
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You Are – Lionel Richie (1982)
This track is off of Lionel Richie’s debut solo album. This album came right after he left the band “The Commodores.” It’s such a fun song with almost a complete symphony behind him deep in the mix. According to the credits on the record, he has strings, brass, saxophones, and even a harp. Put that…
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 