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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Wichita Lineman · Glen Campbell (1968)
One of my favorite songwriters of all time is the great Jimmy Webb. He wrote numerous iconic songs, including By the Time I Get to Phoenix, MacArthur Park, Up, Up and Away, and Wichita Lineman. Webb collaborated with many artists throughout his long career, but he spent a great deal of time working with the…
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In The Stone · Earth, Wind & Fire (1979)
Here’s a fun track that will hopefully get you up and dancing! In the Stone is a standout song from Earth, Wind & Fire’s 1979 album I Am, and it’s been on repeat for me all week. This song is the perfect mix of funk, R&B, and jazz, with a big, bold sound. From the…
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Light My Fire · José Feliciano (1968)
I’ve listened to Feliciano! by José Feliciano so many times, and I absolutely love it. Released in 1968, this album was a breakthrough for Feliciano, blending Latin, pop, and folk influences in a way that felt fresh and exciting. His soulful, acoustic reimagining of The Doors’ Light My Fire became a huge hit, earning him…
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On The Street Where You Live · Mel Tormé (1960)
Here’s a fantastic tune originally from the classic 1956 musical My Fair Lady with music by Frederick Loewe and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner. This is a cover by the great Mel Tormé, with arrangements by Marty Paich. Tormé was one of the greatest jazz vocalists to ever grace this planet. He also played drums,…
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Moonlight In Vermont · Cal Tjader (1956)
Years ago, I was primarily a piano bar player, performing almost every night at fancy restaurants in San Diego. I took requests across nearly every genre, but I’ve always had a deep love for old jazz tunes—this one in particular has stayed with me for a long time. I played it often, whenever the mood…
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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