Five of the best from Chicago

• Chicago (Chicago II) (1970) – Notable Songs: “25 or 6 to 4”, “Make Me Smile”, “Colour My World” Achievements: Peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, certified double Platinum by the RIAA.
• Chicago V (1972) – Notable Songs: “Saturday in the Park”, “Dialogue (Part I & II)” Achievements: Peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, certified double Platinum by the RIAA.
• Chicago VI (1973) – Notable Songs: “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day”, “Just You ‘n’ Me” Achievements: Peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, certified Platinum by the RIAA.
• Chicago VII (1974) – Notable Songs: “(I’ve Been) Searchin’ So Long”, “Call on Me”, “Wishing You Were Here” Achievements: Peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, certified Platinum by the RIAA.
• Chicago 17 (1984) – Notable Songs: “Hard Habit to Break”, “You’re the Inspiration”, “Stay the Night”, “Along Comes a Woman” Achievements: Peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, certified 6× Platinum by the RIAA, making it their best-selling album.

1. Chicago (Chicago II) (1970)

Chicago’s second album, “Chicago (Chicago II),” released in 1970, stands as a pivotal moment in the band’s history. This double album showcases their unique blend of rock, jazz, and classical music, setting them apart in the music industry. The album features hits like “25 or 6 to 4,” “Make Me Smile,” and “Colour My World,” which remain staples in their live performances and classic rock radio rotations.

“Chicago II” climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard 200, reflecting its commercial success and the band’s growing popularity. The intricate arrangements and sophisticated musicianship highlighted in this album established Chicago as innovators in rock music. The album’s diverse musical styles and complex compositions also received critical acclaim, further solidifying their status in the music world. Certified double Platinum, “Chicago II” continues to be celebrated for its groundbreaking fusion of genres and remains a landmark in Chicago’s discography, influencing countless artists and delighting fans for decades.

2. Chicago V (1972)

“Chicago V,” released in 1972, is a landmark in the band’s career. This album is their first single-LP release and features the iconic hit “Saturday in the Park,” a song that remains a favorite among fans and a staple on classic rock radio. “Chicago V” showcases the band’s signature blend of rock, jazz, and classical elements, with a focus on tight arrangements and powerful horn sections.

The album quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, demonstrating its widespread appeal and the band’s growing influence in the music scene. Certified double Platinum by the RIAA, “Chicago V” solidified the band’s reputation for producing innovative and commercially successful music. The album’s success was bolstered by its engaging lyrics and memorable melodies, which continue to resonate with audiences today. “Chicago V” is a testament to the band’s versatility and enduring impact on rock music, cementing their place in music history.

3. Chicago VI (1973)

“Chicago VI,” released in 1973, marks a significant achievement in the band’s illustrious career. This album showcases Chicago’s signature blend of rock and jazz, featuring standout tracks like “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” and “Just You ‘n’ Me.” With “Chicago VI,” the band continued to refine their sound, emphasizing rich horn arrangements and intricate melodies that captivated listeners.

The album soared to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, reflecting its broad appeal and commercial success. Certified Platinum by the RIAA, “Chicago VI” solidified the band’s position as a dominant force in the rock music scene. The album’s success was driven by its catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, which resonated with a wide audience. “Chicago VI” is a testament to the band’s ability to innovate while maintaining their distinct musical identity. This album remains a favorite among fans, highlighting Chicago’s enduring influence and their contribution to the evolution of rock and jazz fusion.

4. Chicago VII (1974)

“Chicago VII,” released in 1974, is a pivotal album in the band’s career, showcasing their musical versatility. This double album dives deeper into jazz influences, incorporating fusion elements that highlight the band’s exceptional musicianship. Tracks like “(I’ve Been) Searchin’ So Long,” “Call on Me,” and “Wishing You Were Here” became significant hits, showcasing the band’s ability to blend rock, jazz, and pop seamlessly.

The album achieved commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200, underscoring Chicago’s popularity and impact on the music scene. Certified Platinum by the RIAA, “Chicago VII” features sophisticated arrangements and memorable melodies that resonate with fans old and new. The album’s exploration of diverse musical styles, from jazz to rock, demonstrates the band’s innovative approach and ability to push their sound’s boundaries. “Chicago VII” remains a favorite among fans, illustrating the band’s enduring influence and commitment to musical excellence.

5. Chicago 17 (1984)

Chicago 17,” released in 1984, is a standout album in Chicago’s extensive discography. Known for its polished production and radio-friendly sound, this album marked a high point in the band’s commercial success. Featuring hits like “Hard Habit to Break,” “You’re the Inspiration,” and “Stay the Night,” “Chicago 17” demonstrated the band’s ability to craft powerful ballads and catchy pop-rock tunes that resonated with a broad audience.

The album climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and was certified 6× Platinum by the RIAA, making it the band’s best-selling album. “Chicago 17” showcases the band’s evolution with its sleek production and emotive lyrics, reflecting the 1980s’ musical trends while retaining their unique sound. The success of this album solidified Chicago’s place in the music industry, earning them a new generation of fans. Today, “Chicago 17” is celebrated for its timeless hits and remains a significant part of Chicago’s legacy, illustrating their adaptability and enduring appeal in the rock and pop music landscape.