The legendary rock band Chicago, with its horn-infused sound and decades of hits, holds a special place in music history. But have you ever wondered, "Where are the original members of Chicago now?" Let's dive into what the founding members are up to, their contributions, and what they've been doing since their time with the band.

The Founding Fathers of Chicago

Before we get into where they are, let's quickly remember who they are. The original lineup included:

• Peter Cetera: Vocals, bass
• Terry Kath: Guitar, vocals
• Robert Lamm: Keyboards, vocals
• Lee Loughnane: Trumpet, vocals
• James Pankow: Trombone
• Walter Parazaider: Saxophone, flute
• Danny Seraphine: Drums

These guys came together in Chicago in 1967, originally under the name The Big Thing, before evolving into the band we know and love. Their unique sound, blending rock, pop, and jazz, quickly set them apart. They weren't just another rock band; they were a musical experience. Their early albums were experimental, politically charged, and full of energy. They set the stage for a career that would span decades, filled with iconic songs and sold-out concerts.

Peter Cetera: Life After Chicago

Peter Cetera's soaring vocals were a signature element of Chicago's sound. He sang lead on many of their biggest hits, including "If You Leave Me Now" and "You're the Inspiration." His departure from the band in 1985 marked a significant turning point. But what has he been up to since then?

After leaving Chicago, Cetera embarked on a successful solo career. His sound evolved into a more adult contemporary style, which resonated with audiences. He released a string of hits, including "Glory of Love" (from The Karate Kid Part II soundtrack), "The Next Time I Fall" (a duet with Amy Grant), and "One Good Woman." These songs showcased his smooth vocals and knack for crafting heartfelt ballads. He proved that he could stand on his own and continue to create music that touched people's hearts. Even though he's no longer with Chicago, his contributions to the band and his solo work continue to be celebrated. His voice remains iconic, and his songs are still played on the radio, reminding us of his enduring impact on the music world. Despite some friction over the years, his legacy with Chicago is undeniable.

The Tragic Loss of Terry Kath

Terry Kath was more than just Chicago's guitarist; he was the band's heart and soul. Known for his incredible guitar skills and soulful vocals, Kath brought a raw energy to the band's sound. Sadly, his life was cut short in 1978 in a tragic accident. His death was a devastating blow to the band and the music world. Kath's guitar work was legendary, admired by fellow musicians like Jimi Hendrix, who reportedly said Kath was the best guitarist he had ever heard. His playing was a blend of rock, blues, and jazz, and he had a knack for improvising and pushing the boundaries of what a guitar could do. Beyond his instrumental talents, Kath was also a gifted songwriter and vocalist. He wrote and sang lead on several of Chicago's songs, including "Make Me Smile" and "Feeling Stronger Every Day." His voice was soulful and powerful, perfectly complementing his guitar playing. Even though his time with Chicago was relatively short, his impact on the band's sound and legacy is immeasurable. He is remembered as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation and a true musical innovator. His loss is still felt by fans and musicians alike, but his music continues to inspire and captivate.

Robert Lamm: The Enduring Keyboardist

Robert Lamm has been a constant presence in Chicago since its inception. As the band's keyboardist and one of its primary songwriters, Lamm has penned some of Chicago's most iconic songs, including "25 or 6 to 4" and "Saturday in the Park." He continues to tour and record with the band, keeping the spirit of Chicago alive. Lamm's songwriting has always been a key ingredient in Chicago's success. His songs are known for their catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and sophisticated arrangements. He has a knack for capturing the energy and spirit of the times, whether it's the political unrest of the early 1970s or the carefree vibe of a summer day in the park. His keyboard playing is equally important to Chicago's sound. He's a versatile musician who can play everything from jazzy chords to rocking solos. He's also a master of using synthesizers and other electronic instruments to create unique and innovative sounds. Throughout the years, Lamm has remained committed to Chicago, even as other members have come and gone. He's a true believer in the band's music and legacy, and he's determined to keep it going for as long as possible. His dedication and talent have made him an indispensable part of Chicago, and he continues to be a driving force behind the band's continued success.

The Horn Section: Loughnane, Pankow, and Parazaider

Lee Loughnane (trumpet), James Pankow (trombone), and Walter Parazaider (saxophone) formed Chicago's signature horn section. Their distinctive sound set the band apart from other rock groups. What are these horn legends up to these days?

• Lee Loughnane: Loughnane continued to tour with Chicago until his retirement in 2018. His trumpet playing was an integral part of the band's sound, adding depth and richness to their music. He also contributed to the band's songwriting, co-writing several of their songs. Throughout his career, Loughnane remained dedicated to Chicago, and his contributions to the band's success are undeniable. His trumpet solos were always a highlight of their live performances, and his playing helped to define the band's unique sound. Even in retirement, he remains a beloved figure among Chicago fans.
• James Pankow: Pankow, the trombone virtuoso, also remained a mainstay of Chicago until his retirement in 2022. His trombone playing was a key element of the band's sound, adding a distinctive voice to their music. He also wrote and arranged many of Chicago's songs, including "Feelin' Stronger Every Day" and "Make Me Smile." Pankow's talent and dedication made him an indispensable part of Chicago for many years. His trombone solos were always a crowd-pleaser, and his songwriting helped to shape the band's musical direction. He is a true musical innovator, and his contributions to Chicago will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
• Walter Parazaider: Parazaider, the saxophone and flute player, was another founding member who remained with Chicago for many years until his retirement in 2017. His playing added a touch of sophistication and elegance to the band's sound. He was also a skilled arranger and composer, contributing to the band's unique musical style. Parazaider's talent and vision helped to make Chicago one of the most innovative and successful bands of all time. His saxophone and flute playing were always a joy to listen to, and his contributions to the band's overall sound were invaluable. He is a true musical legend, and his legacy will continue to inspire musicians for generations to come.

Danny Seraphine: The Rhythmic Backbone

Danny Seraphine was the engine room of Chicago, providing the band's driving rhythm. His drumming style was a blend of rock, jazz, and funk, giving Chicago its distinctive sound. Seraphine was dismissed from the band in 1990. So what did he do next?

After leaving Chicago, Seraphine continued to pursue his musical passions. He formed his own band, California Transit Authority (CTA), which allowed him to explore his musical interests. CTA released several albums and toured extensively, showcasing Seraphine's drumming skills and his passion for music. Seraphine also became an in-demand session drummer, working with a variety of artists and contributing to numerous recordings. He also wrote an autobiography, Street Player: My Chicago Story, which chronicles his time with Chicago and his life in music. Seraphine's drumming style was always a key element of Chicago's sound. He was a powerful and versatile drummer who could play everything from hard-rocking beats to jazzy rhythms. His playing helped to define Chicago's unique sound, and his contributions to the band's success are undeniable. Even though he's no longer with Chicago, his legacy as one of the greatest drummers of his generation remains intact. He continues to inspire drummers around the world with his talent, passion, and dedication to music.

Chicago's Enduring Legacy

While the lineup has changed over the years, Chicago's music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Their blend of rock, pop, and jazz, combined with their signature horn section, has created a sound that is uniquely their own. The original members may have moved on to different paths, but their contributions to the band's legacy will never be forgotten. From Peter Cetera's soaring vocals to Terry Kath's fiery guitar work, each member brought something special to the table. And even though some members are no longer with us, their music continues to live on, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans. So, the next time you hear a Chicago song on the radio, take a moment to remember the original members and their incredible contribution to the world of music. They may be gone, but their music will live on forever. Chicago's story is a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy of a band that dared to be different. They broke down barriers, experimented with new sounds, and created a musical style that is instantly recognizable. Their influence can be heard in countless bands and musicians, and their music continues to bring joy to people all over the world. So, let's raise a glass to the original members of Chicago and celebrate their incredible contribution to the world of music.