I was done with Chicago in 2009 when they fired Bill Champlin. I’ve been following my friend Travis Davis who plays bass in Danny Seraphines band CTA. Jason, Bill, and other members have played with them on tour! CTA is amazing.. and I’ve known Travis for 25 plus years. ❤
I felt the same way after Terry Kath died and with it the soul of that band. Bill Champlin and David Foster made the band money for sure but also made my ears bleed.
I’m glad I saw Chicago when I did. Walter Parazaider was still there, in addition to Jimmy, Robert and Lee. I could’ve seen them when I was in college but I had a major exam that same week. I chose not to. One professor told me “Your grade will thank you.” I wound up getting a B (just below a coveted A). So I guess my grade did thank me! I would’ve loved to have seen them when Terry Kath was still alive! I was 11 when he died. Not much chance of my parents letting me go to a rock concert as a kid, not that I blame them. Good luck with your eye exam, John.
Chicago has undergone significant personnel changes throughout its history, with only three original members remaining. While Walfredo Reyes Jr. has the longest tenure among the current non-founding members, he joined the band relatively recently in 2012. Given the band's extensive history and numerous lineup changes, their current performances often evoke the feeling of a tribute act. And as tribute bands go, I'd personally prefer to see Leonid & Friends.
Thank you for the info. You always do great interviews. I hope you feel better with your eye. Please keep up the great work. You're gentle approach to interviews without judgment at the same time being firm and stalwart is an admirable trait. Am a fan for sure.
Huge Chicago fan from 1970. Absolutely no interest in paying to see a member less Cicago line up. It's hard enough with only the three guys since Walter dropped out, and Keith Howland left. Couldn't fill a large venue without the original members imo. God bless the original members❤
I am also a huge Chicago fan. I was so inspired by their musicality I chose to play the trumpet through school. I'd support Chicago no matter what. Happy New Year John, your friend E.
Agreed. Saw Chicago a couple of years ago and they sounded more like a cover band, than the original group. Leonid and friends definitely sounds better.
I saw them last year with three original members and they were absolutely awesome !... Robert Lamb sounds fantastic... If he's not there then I'm not there either !
I grew up on Chicago 2 and love their music, but I wouldn't like it if was a totally new lineup! This would be like Rush without Geddy, Alex, and Neil, not interested, it's not the same! My favorite band is Kansas, but when Phil and Richard retire it would not be the same! Sometimes bands, I think, need to just ride off into the sunset and call it a day.
When there's no original members it's a tribute band. I refuse to pay top dollar for an overpaid bar band. And most of the local bar bands are pretty damn good and they cover a lot of groups..
I think the "new" Kansas is fantastic. Rich and Phil are all that's left of the founders, and Phil may not be playing much longer. But the new guys have the chops and the spirit that makes it all work. I hope they keep at it for a few more years and then pack it in, gracefully.
I haven’t been to a Chicago show since Lou Pardini left. Keith Howland’s departure was the last straw for me. They are my favorite band ever; I don’t plan on seeing them again.
When a band has been touring since 1967, it’s next to impossible to keep touring with original members. But if any of the members have been around for 20, 25, 30 years…it can still be legit.
Been a fan since ‘68, saw the original lineup, maybe a half dozen times over the years. Thought I was done with them after Chicago 14, which was horrible. Bill Champlin & David Foster resurrected their careers beginning with Chicago 16, & 17. Saw Chicago three years ago, with three originals left. Great show, tickets weren’t cheap, but they’re still touring.
I have been a Chicago fan since 1968 as well. Seen them at least 20 times, but not in the last 5 years. I will not see them anymore. Even with the 3 remaining members. If you get a chance, see Brass Transit. These guys are real good and only do Chicago songs. No EWF or Blood Sweat and Tears.
No, I would not go see Chicago without Lee, Robert and Jimmy...no way. That would not be Chicago without those three. Walter had to leave way too early on because of health reasons, so he gets the pass....I've been following them since the first CTA double album. I've seen them many times. I do care. No Robert, Lee and Jimmy = No Chicago. Sorry.
I stopped seeing Chicago live after Jeff Coffey and Tris Imboden left. No offense to the current lineup, it just doesn’t appeal to me anymore. If I want to see what they’re up to, I’ll check out YT clips.
It makes me puke . There are so many musicians who have had NO success , give them a chance . The Music Industry is just screwing with people . CHICAGO is over . Fake bands take gigs from REAL Bands .
The Glenn Miller Orchestra is still performing live (no original members though Ray Anthony is still alive!) so I suppose Chicago could do the same. This equates to being a tribute band or an orchestra that plays Chicago like an orchestra playing Brahms or Tchaikovsky.
@@jamescpotter Thanks for pointing this out. My WWII vet father raised me on Glenn Miller and his other fave big bands. Finally before my dad died, the official Glenn Miller Orchestra played near here and we all went, 50 years after Miller died. This is no big deal. But if needs to be approved/official in some way, I think. There’s a better chance of integrity that way.
I am torn, but people should do the research in who is in the band. My friend always say The New York Yankees do not have Bebe Ruth or Lou Gehrig but still are The Yankees.
Interesting question, and one that a friend and I have been discussing for years. The question in my mind becomes: When does a band/artist cease being an active concern and becomes a catalogue of songs? Whether we're talking a long, varied history (Chicago) or one album that rewrote the future (Sex Pistols) or plenty in between, there comes a time when it's only the history that's asked for. I happen to know of a couple of bands who have none of their original members on board (sorry, no names remembered, but I have seen the evidence). These bands have two things in common: 1) A continuous line between the start and now, and 2) Recognition and acceptance by the surviving members.
All these bands touring as the real thing with no original members don't deserve any respect. And they charge top dollar. Wth? They should all be "tribute" acts playing county fairs.
Would I see Bob Dylan if it's not the original Bob Dylan? Would I see Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young without Crosby, Stills, Nash or Young? This isn't even a question.
I was lucky to see Chicago several times in the 1970s with Terry Kath. After Terry tragically passed away, they lost their heart and soul, in my opinion. I have seen them since then, but without any original members, why bother, especially with the cost of tickets these days?
This is the trouble with Toto. Luke has said that if he isn't touring he is losing money. I am bored of the greatest hits tours constantly being churned out. If people want to listen to the big radio hits without any clue who Jeff Porcaro is they may as well go and buy a live dvd.
The most insane is Alan Parsons Project, this was a studio project only of Eric Wolfsoon and Alan Parsons, unfortunately the engeneer Parsons gave the name to this project. They had a core of musicians on all albums for many years (Paton, Bairnson, Stuart Tosh, Stuart Elliot and some singers like Lenny Zakadek, Chris Rainbow, John Miles or Colin Blunstone and Eric himself) Wolfsoon passed away in 2008. The core got only 1 !! live concert, in 1990 in Belgium. So, Alan Parsons who composed not 1 single song of that APP, is touring and making money with totally different musicians since the 90ies. To me this is at least cheating !!!
I think that if a band is still recording as a creative unit, with a continual succession of members, they should continue under the bands original name. If they are just touring as an oldies jukebox, then they are classified as a tribute band.
❤I will still be seeing Chicago when I AM the only original❤Jimmy is only 77. He has some years left. But the new members respect the original songs. Look at the pedigree of the new members!!!
Ive been a fan since i bought CTA as an 8 year old back in 1969 and ive seen them in just about all of their configurations, save for Jeff Coffey. I can't imagine plunking down any money to see what would amount to as a tribute band without any original members.
Why are people acting like this is a new thing? Back in the 50s and 60's, the record label owned the name of the group. A few years ago, here in the UK, there was a tour with The Platters, 4 tops and a couple of other bands of that type from that era. Everyone on stage was in their mid 20's
Is Carlos Murguia who’s been playing keys in Robert’s place when he steps off stage on not present at all there to stay or is it temporary?, I noticed on TH-cam videos Carlos singing “ Just You ‘n’ Me” at every show, ( I wonder if he will eventually have more vocal time in future) also is Loren Gold now the youngest member (how old is he?), I think Eric Banes is 53.
I had the chance to see Chi😊cago 5 times with Terry Kath. Awsome. Original members earned the right to franchise the name. I have seen tribute bands made up.of great jazz rock musicians for free and those musicians .had great talent. I love the music.
If they just play the old songs then no. However, if they were officially handed the torch by the original Chicago members and made new (good!) music then I might consider it. Kind of like a sports team reloading their players after the older ones retire. I think the thing that bothers me the most about these situations is groups touring with no original band members, and all they do is play (and make money off) the old material.
I think the question is if the band is still relevant or not. In the case of Skynyrd, they still do have one member from before the airplane crash (Rickey Medlocke), they put on a great show, and Medlocke is a fantastic performer that is worth seeing in his own right. In the case of Chicago, they went very far downhill when Bill Champlin was a member. They simplified the songs and don't have the same vocal and musical complexity. They are not all that relevant even with 3 original members.
Three bands different genres same issues as Chicago but still touring. 1. A Flock Of Seagulls ..Mike Score only original member still touring. 2. Chilliwack... Bill Henderson only original member still touring. 3. KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND. H.W.Casey only member from original line up still touring consistently.
If it's a tribute band and it's promoted that way. Fine, if you want to go see them. But to act like it's the original band with no original member's, definitely not interested.
I saw Chicago in 2002 and a concertgoer near me was jumping up and down screaming about how great Peter Cetera looked and sounded. I started to explain to her that he had been replaced long ago but decided to let her be astounded and enjoy the show has she interpreted it. Lol.. it comes down to individual preference. If you don't pay attention and don't do your research then it's on you, otherwise, be informed and make your decision. It's that simple, and they are just tan and will do what they feel is right for them, which is their prerogative. I personally have no problem with replacement singers if I dig their sound and vibe. And I decide if I'm willing to pay the price of admission and don't complain about it if I opted to. In many cases, replacements are doing a better job than some of our favorite Legacy singers can do now. Research, decide, and take accountability for your personal decision. Thank you for the information and content, as always! I hope you feel better soon!
I saw Chicago not long before Bill was gone, it looked like a bunch of old men going through the motions without any interaction with each other. To the contrary, they seemed to blatantly ignore each other! I love Chicago, and I'd wanted to see them for ages, but I was done after that! If they continue with no original members it'll be even worse, apart from the original three left there aren't even any long standing members! Keith's gone, Tris is gone, Jason is gone; it's going to be a trademarked "Chicago featuring Neil Donnell" band! Awful idea, but then again it seems to work for Blood, Sweat, and Tears!
The current incarnation of Foreigner is truly a tribute band. The members have never played on any foreigner records. Nor played with any members of Foreigner.
Something to consider. Take a group like the Spinners or Temptations. All original members have died. So if they continue who’s it for? Take Journey for example. The one founding member and the one responsible for many of their biggest hits are still in the band. Are they still the band although featuring an excellent lead singer who wasn’t around for any of those hits? This band is still doing arenas.
Lynyrd Skynyrd is an exception, as - like Molly Hatchet - the original members (meaning the lineup on the first two albums) have passed away. And, even in 1987, Skynyrd had said that they were paying tribute to the original band and music.
Molly Hatchet is awful. Only one guitarist and they ruin flirting with disaster. Danny Joe Brown had a interview where he said he was not the original member. He brought in the guitarist Bobby Ingram who is still in the band and Danny said he is not Molly Hatchet.
As long as the consumer knows who is playing in the band, I don't blame the retired members from continuing a revenue stream. I don't care to see them anymore. They play too perfectly for me.
Whoever owns the rights to a bands name can put out a product or band, but if the audiences don’t like it, then it’ll fail… basically business 101. I’m sure there’s other legalities as well, but people are paying to see a DJ, so an actual band should be an upgrade LOL! 😂
Vocal groups have been doing this for years. The Platters, Coasters, Temptations, etc. For most people, it's not about the members, it's about the memories. Only musicians and loyalists prefer the original members.
People go on about this original members. Gary Tallent is the only original E Street Band member besides Bruce himself. What if he dies or quits? Does that mean Bruce should stop using the E Street Band moniker even though Steve Van Zandt, Max Weinberg, and Roy Bittan are all members since 1975? Of course they are official members of the E Street Band along with Lofgren and Scialfa who joined in 1984. Everyone else is a hired gun. More about original members. Graeme Edge, Ray Thomas, and Mike Pinder were the only original Moody Blues members while John Lodge and Justin Hayward came on after the first album. Steve Perry was not the original singer for Journey, but many consider Journey not to be Journey without him. Bottom line, it's not necessarily about having original members.
Chicago could do it probably more plausibly than lots of other bands because that logo is for a lot of non-initiated serious fans the identifier for the band. Really, the only member in the entire history of the band with some general public name recognition was Peter by virtue of a pretty decent post-Chicago solo career and their 80s revival under Foster. So if they found a group of good musicians who could play the material (and even if they could write new-material) and make it all legal, then it is plausible. Would serious fans be into it? Likely not, but as John said, most people who into shit are kind fairweather about it.
Never liked these "cover" bandsl like Skynyd Foreigner that are out there for the money. If they are physically able i think bands like Sabbath,Styx,Chicago ,Journey,Grand Funk should be original if they are going to charge ticket prices like they are original
Ultimately it's strictly a legal issue. If you made the smart choice to trademark the name, then you can do a lot with it. If you missed the boat on trademarking, then you're screwed. Possession is 9/10ths of the law, even in rock n' roll.
Aka Foreigner it just become a tribute band. Saw Chicago at Radio City Music Hall and there was passion with some of the original members, 20 years ago. Now aways it just by the numbers, theres no heart. My main problem I saw a lot of these band from 70's but at decent prices. $100-200? really?
Some bands wouldn't dare continuing without a single original member. Like Led Zeppelin. Or Rush (if you don't count John Rutsey on their 1st album). Or The Beatles (even though Pete Best was original drummer). Others will replace lead members, or even the whole band. I don't know what the difference is that some bands are ONLY certain members, while others are all replaceable. Blood, Sweat & Tears was one of the first bands I know where between their 1st album in 1968 and their last in 1980 there are NO original members. Which is saying something for a bad that could have 8-10 members at any given time. Yes recently met that milestone of no original members. When someone dies, okay, I get it. But Jon Anderson is still out there (so is Bill Bruford and Tony Kaye, and Rick Wakeman if another from their pinnacle era counts). Having 3 originals left in Chicago is sad, but not terrible. I'm more concerned with their musical choices. Some bands like Rush ONLY have 3 members. Lamm, Loughnane and Pankow have all written songs, including hits. They've all sung (though James only lead on 2 songs so far). But if they all go... at what point is it just considered a tribute band?
I certainly would NOT pay money to go see Chicago without any original members. As long as fans know this is the case, the band can tour, I guess, as Chicago: almost more of a "tribute" band now. Ownership of band names has become an issue, as we know, in recent times as we saw with The Guess Who. I had no intention of going to see The Guess Who in recent times without Randy Bachman & Burton Cummings. I saw them on their reunion tour at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton in 2000 - it was superb. Since then, I went to see Bachman-Cummings (since they could no longer tour as The Guess Who). When I go see a band, I want to see the lead songwriters, vocalists, etc. With mixed emotions I am finally seeing April Wine this year - more or less not by choice: They are on the same bill as BTO which also isn't the full original band, obviously. The only reason I am going is that I never saw BTO in its heyday and as long as Randy Bachman (leader writer, lead guitarist, co-vocalist) is heading up BTO, I am interested. It is likely to be bittersweet knowing that most of BTO is not up on stage but sweet to hear Randy deliver those songs. I enjoy his guitar work. Chicago with no original members? Definitely not interested. Should they continue touring as "Chicago"? Good question.
I've stopped going to see them already. My wish is for Robert, James and Lee to stop touring and enjoy their lives. I'd love it even more if they just continued to make the new music that THEY WANT TO MAKE.
Granted the issue of continuing revenue streams and/or licensed replacements, my position remains unchanged. A band without any original members is not really that band. At best, it's a legally sanctioned tribute band. I would also apply that standard to a band that has lost an iconic, face of the band lead singer.
Terry Kath had died by the time I discovered Chicago in 82’. That lineup of the 16 album is where I jumped on board. And yes. Discovered all of their work. Shortly after Cetera left and Scheff came in. It was a great fit with 5 original members. Yes is stunk when Seraphine was ousted. Once Champlin was ousted and a bit later Scheff left… I was no longer interested. Walt had health issues before Jason’s departure. As a fan… it is Depressing to watch this lineup. Love Robert, Jimmy and Lee… this lead singer that sounds like a Jason Scheff karaoke sleazy dive bar singer causes me second hand embarrassment! The 3 remains members have integrity in making money while doing what they love. But totally bastardized their history in the process.
I feel any band that changes 1 member should call them shelves version 2. If they change 2 members version 3 …. etc. so Chicago should call themselves Chicago version 10…😂
If it's no original members the bill should read "the music of CHICAGO"...
I was done with Chicago in 2009 when they fired Bill Champlin. I’ve been following my friend Travis Davis who plays bass in Danny Seraphines band CTA. Jason, Bill, and other members have played with them on tour! CTA is amazing.. and I’ve known Travis for 25 plus years. ❤
I felt the same way after Terry Kath died and with it the soul of that band. Bill Champlin and David Foster made the band money for sure but also made my ears bleed.
@@chrisseidner251 Agreed - when Bill left, I was done.
With no original members, they become a tribute band. I'll pass......
I’m glad I saw Chicago when I did. Walter Parazaider was still there, in addition to Jimmy, Robert and Lee.
I could’ve seen them when I was in college but I had a major exam that same week. I chose not to. One professor told me “Your grade will thank you.” I wound up getting a B (just below a coveted A). So I guess my grade did thank me!
I would’ve loved to have seen them when Terry Kath was still alive! I was 11 when he died. Not much chance of my parents letting me go to a rock concert as a kid, not that I blame them.
Good luck with your eye exam, John.
Chicago has undergone significant personnel changes throughout its history, with only three original members remaining. While Walfredo Reyes Jr. has the longest tenure among the current non-founding members, he joined the band relatively recently in 2012. Given the band's extensive history and numerous lineup changes, their current performances often evoke the feeling of a tribute act. And as tribute bands go, I'd personally prefer to see Leonid & Friends.
Who are Leonard and friends?
@@ronfowlermusic It is Leonid & Friends. TH-cam it...
Thank you for the info. You always do great interviews. I hope you feel better with your eye. Please keep up the great work. You're gentle approach to interviews without judgment at the same time being firm and stalwart is an admirable trait. Am a fan for sure.
Chicago with the remaining members are their own tribute band anyway
Huge Chicago fan from 1970. Absolutely no interest in paying to see a member less Cicago line up. It's hard enough with only the three guys since Walter dropped out, and Keith Howland left. Couldn't fill a large venue without the original members imo. God bless the original members❤
Leonid and Friends❤️
Who?
They need to do a final farewell not replacing all original member of Chicago band if they wanna retire
The first Chicago tour with no original members will be known forevermore as THE NIGHT CHICAGO DIED....
I would not see Chicago again. They’re a great live act, but if original guys are gone, so am I…period.
Wishing the original members were here.
Kind of see what you did there. Wishing you were here. I feel the same
I guess that’s how it is.
A band without some member of the original line-up is never more this band. That is finally a kind of fraud, sorry.
I see what you did here
@@BTom16 Terry Kath is dead
I am also a huge Chicago fan. I was so inspired by their musicality I chose to play the trumpet through school. I'd support Chicago no matter what. Happy New Year John, your friend E.
I'd rather see Leonid & Friends. They sound more like Chicago did in their prime than Chicago does now.
You are so right!
I did in 2019 and they were fantastic.
Who are they?
Agreed. Saw Chicago a couple of years ago and they sounded more like a cover band, than the original group. Leonid and friends definitely sounds better.
@@EdRZ-sw3mt Get over it
I saw them last year with three original members and they were absolutely awesome !... Robert Lamb sounds fantastic... If he's not there then I'm not there either !
Ditto - saw them twice and enjoyed them. Okay, not the same as having Terry, Peter and Danny, but still pretty good!
His name is Robert Lamm, Super fan.
Robert Lamm.
They really should be considered tribute bands. There are bands that aren't the same anymore.
I grew up on Chicago 2 and love their music, but I wouldn't like it if was a totally new lineup! This would be like Rush without Geddy, Alex, and Neil, not interested, it's not the same! My favorite band is Kansas, but when Phil and Richard retire it would not be the same! Sometimes bands, I think, need to just ride off into the sunset and call it a day.
When there's no original members it's a tribute band.
I refuse to pay top dollar for an overpaid bar band.
And most of the local bar bands are pretty damn good and they cover a lot of groups..
I think the "new" Kansas is fantastic. Rich and Phil are all that's left of the founders, and Phil may not be playing much longer. But the new guys have the chops and the spirit that makes it all work. I hope they keep at it for a few more years and then pack it in, gracefully.
Can you imagine EW&F without Philip Bailey??? No Way! When Lamm goes, Chicago as we know it is...gone.
If no members ever performed as an original member, as a added member or replacement member, then they are a tribute band.
I haven’t been to a Chicago show since Lou Pardini left. Keith Howland’s departure was the last straw for me. They are my favorite band ever; I don’t plan on seeing them again.
Go to see ! CTA - California Transportation Authority! Danny Seraphine Rocks the drum like 1970! Great show and authentic!
When a band has been touring since 1967, it’s next to impossible to keep touring with original members. But if any of the members have been around for 20, 25, 30 years…it can still be legit.
Been a fan since ‘68, saw the original lineup, maybe a half dozen times over the years. Thought I was done with them after Chicago 14, which was horrible. Bill Champlin & David Foster resurrected their careers beginning with Chicago 16, & 17. Saw Chicago three years ago, with three originals left. Great show, tickets weren’t cheap, but they’re still touring.
I saw them live at a 'house concert' in Buena Park, CA six months before the first double album dropped. They did two sets and every note was spot on!
I have been a Chicago fan since 1968 as well. Seen them at least 20 times, but not in the last 5 years. I will not see them anymore. Even with the 3 remaining members. If you get a chance, see Brass Transit. These guys are real good and only do Chicago songs. No EWF or Blood Sweat and Tears.
No, I would not go see Chicago without Lee, Robert and Jimmy...no way. That would not be Chicago without those three. Walter had to leave way too early on because of health reasons, so he gets the pass....I've been following them since the first CTA double album. I've seen them many times. I do care. No Robert, Lee and Jimmy = No Chicago. Sorry.
I stopped seeing Chicago live after Jeff Coffey and Tris Imboden left. No offense to the current lineup, it just doesn’t appeal to me anymore. If I want to see what they’re up to, I’ll check out YT clips.
Three members still in the band is rare so we should be happy to have that many still around doing it with them
Leonid and friends should become the NEW CHICAGO hands down.
Nope, they don't write Chicago songs, they just copy them.
It makes me puke . There are so many musicians who have had NO success , give them a chance . The Music Industry is just screwing with people . CHICAGO is over . Fake bands take gigs from REAL Bands .
I saw Chicago in 1977 at the Free Tade Hall, Manchester UK, the last time they toured Europe with the original lineup.
Been a Diehard Chicago since 1970,but no orginal members. Until I hear it on the official Chicago website well.
The Glenn Miller Orchestra is still performing live (no original members though Ray Anthony is still alive!) so I suppose Chicago could do the same. This equates to being a tribute band or an orchestra that plays Chicago like an orchestra playing Brahms or Tchaikovsky.
@@jamescpotter Thanks for pointing this out. My WWII vet father raised me on Glenn Miller and his other fave big bands. Finally before my dad died, the official Glenn Miller Orchestra played near here and we all went, 50 years after Miller died. This is no big deal. But if needs to be approved/official in some way, I think. There’s a better chance of integrity that way.
I am torn, but people should do the research in who is in the band. My friend always say The New York Yankees do not have Bebe Ruth or Lou Gehrig but still are The Yankees.
The bands could do whatever they want to do.And that's that.We see this is happening.
Sounds like Foreigner. It would be an officially sanctioned “tribute” band.
I’d like to know before I shell out money for tickets!
Chicago is iconic.
Hell i. Just saw Foreigner in September and while great there was not one original member on stage.
Interesting question, and one that a friend and I have been discussing for years.
The question in my mind becomes: When does a band/artist cease being an active concern and becomes a catalogue of songs? Whether we're talking a long, varied history (Chicago) or one album that rewrote the future (Sex Pistols) or plenty in between, there comes a time when it's only the history that's asked for.
I happen to know of a couple of bands who have none of their original members on board (sorry, no names remembered, but I have seen the evidence). These bands have two things in common:
1) A continuous line between the start and now, and
2) Recognition and acceptance by the surviving members.
All these bands touring as the real thing with no original members don't deserve any respect. And they charge top dollar. Wth? They should all be "tribute" acts playing county fairs.
Would I see Bob Dylan if it's not the original Bob Dylan? Would I see Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young without Crosby, Stills, Nash or Young? This isn't even a question.
The current Yes lineup has no original members. Steve Howe is there from the classic lineup, but he's not an original member.
I was lucky to see Chicago several times in the 1970s with Terry Kath. After Terry tragically passed away, they lost their heart and soul, in my opinion. I have seen them since then, but without any original members, why bother, especially with the cost of tickets these days?
This is the trouble with Toto. Luke has said that if he isn't touring he is losing money.
I am bored of the greatest hits tours constantly being churned out. If people want to listen to the big radio hits without any clue who Jeff Porcaro is they may as well go and buy a live dvd.
The most insane is Alan Parsons Project, this was a studio project only of Eric Wolfsoon and Alan Parsons, unfortunately the engeneer Parsons gave the name to this project. They had a core of musicians on all albums for many years (Paton, Bairnson, Stuart Tosh, Stuart Elliot and some singers like Lenny Zakadek, Chris Rainbow, John Miles or Colin Blunstone and Eric himself) Wolfsoon passed away in 2008. The core got only 1 !! live concert, in 1990 in Belgium. So, Alan Parsons who composed not 1 single song of that APP, is touring and making money with totally different musicians since the 90ies. To me this is at least cheating !!!
Not Cool with it at all. Then they should retire... I want original members or not at all. I won't waste my time. That's just me though.
Huge Chicago fan. I saw them live somewhere between 45 and 50 times. I’m not even interested in seeing them now.
I think that if a band is still recording as a creative unit, with a continual succession of members, they should continue under the bands original name. If they are just touring as an oldies jukebox, then they are classified as a tribute band.
❤I will still be seeing Chicago when I AM the only original❤Jimmy is only 77. He has some years left. But the new members respect the original songs. Look at the pedigree of the new members!!!
No OG in the band they call Yes.
Ive been a fan since i bought CTA as an 8 year old back in 1969 and ive seen them in just about all of their configurations, save for Jeff Coffey. I can't imagine plunking down any money to see what would amount to as a tribute band without any original members.
Why are people acting like this is a new thing? Back in the 50s and 60's, the record label owned the name of the group. A few years ago, here in the UK, there was a tour with The Platters, 4 tops and a couple of other bands of that type from that era. Everyone on stage was in their mid 20's
A bit like a joke I heard where the comedian said he went to see The Drifters and it was four Chinese men on stage.
Is Carlos Murguia who’s been playing keys in Robert’s place when he steps off stage on not present at all there to stay or is it temporary?, I noticed on TH-cam videos Carlos singing “ Just You ‘n’ Me” at every show, ( I wonder if he will eventually have more vocal time in future) also is Loren Gold now the youngest member (how old is he?), I think Eric Banes is 53.
I had the chance to see Chi😊cago 5 times with Terry Kath. Awsome. Original members earned the right to franchise the name. I have seen tribute bands made up.of great jazz rock musicians for free and those musicians .had great talent. I love the music.
If they just play the old songs then no. However, if they were officially handed the torch by the original Chicago members and made new (good!) music then I might consider it. Kind of like a sports team reloading their players after the older ones retire.
I think the thing that bothers me the most about these situations is groups touring with no original band members, and all they do is play (and make money off) the old material.
This would make Chicago a tribute band
I think the question is if the band is still relevant or not. In the case of Skynyrd, they still do have one member from before the airplane crash (Rickey Medlocke), they put on a great show, and Medlocke is a fantastic performer that is worth seeing in his own right. In the case of Chicago, they went very far downhill when Bill Champlin was a member. They simplified the songs and don't have the same vocal and musical complexity. They are not all that relevant even with 3 original members.
Three bands different genres same issues as Chicago but still touring. 1. A Flock Of Seagulls ..Mike Score only original member still touring. 2. Chilliwack... Bill Henderson only original member still touring. 3. KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND. H.W.Casey only member from original line up still touring consistently.
Sadly the Temptations tried to do the same thing. Just let it go.
0:54 nope, I wouldn't go. Little River Band is nothing but a cover band now.
Chicago has not been Chicago since Peter Cetera and Bill Champlin were dismissed.
If it's a tribute band and it's promoted that way. Fine, if you want to go see them. But to act like it's the original band with no original member's, definitely not interested.
I saw Chicago in 2002 and a concertgoer near me was jumping up and down screaming about how great Peter Cetera looked and sounded. I started to explain to her that he had been replaced long ago but decided to let her be astounded and enjoy the show has she interpreted it. Lol.. it comes down to individual preference. If you don't pay attention and don't do your research then it's on you, otherwise, be informed and make your decision. It's that simple, and they are just tan and will do what they feel is right for them, which is their prerogative. I personally have no problem with replacement singers if I dig their sound and vibe. And I decide if I'm willing to pay the price of admission and don't complain about it if I opted to. In many cases, replacements are doing a better job than some of our favorite Legacy singers can do now. Research, decide, and take accountability for your personal decision. Thank you for the information and content, as always! I hope you feel better soon!
Chicago hasn’t been Chicago for years. They weren’t even Chicago after Terry Kath passed. David Foster et al softened them up too much.
I saw Chicago not long before Bill was gone, it looked like a bunch of old men going through the motions without any interaction with each other. To the contrary, they seemed to blatantly ignore each other! I love Chicago, and I'd wanted to see them for ages, but I was done after that! If they continue with no original members it'll be even worse, apart from the original three left there aren't even any long standing members! Keith's gone, Tris is gone, Jason is gone; it's going to be a trademarked "Chicago featuring Neil Donnell" band! Awful idea, but then again it seems to work for Blood, Sweat, and Tears!
Ticket prices should reflect who you are paying to perform.
The current incarnation of Foreigner is truly a tribute band. The members have never played on any foreigner records. Nor played with any members of Foreigner.
Something to consider. Take a group like the Spinners or Temptations. All original members have died. So if they continue who’s it for? Take Journey for example. The one founding member and the one responsible for many of their biggest hits are still in the band. Are they still the band although featuring an excellent lead singer who wasn’t around for any of those hits? This band is still doing arenas.
Lynyrd Skynyrd is an exception, as - like Molly Hatchet - the original members (meaning the lineup on the first two albums) have passed away. And, even in 1987, Skynyrd had said that they were paying tribute to the original band and music.
Molly Hatchet is awful. Only one guitarist and they ruin flirting with disaster.
Danny Joe Brown had a interview where he said he was not the original member. He brought in the guitarist Bobby Ingram who is still in the band and Danny said he is not Molly Hatchet.
Skynyrd also agreed that after a short reunion tour in 1987, that the name would be buried with the plane crash victims. But money talks....
As long as the consumer knows who is playing in the band, I don't blame the retired members from continuing a revenue stream. I don't care to see them anymore. They play too perfectly for me.
Whoever owns the rights to a bands name can put out a product or band, but if the audiences don’t like it, then it’ll fail… basically business 101. I’m sure there’s other legalities as well, but people are paying to see a DJ, so an actual band should be an upgrade LOL! 😂
Everyone reaches a point when its time to say goodbye...I would pass on another show.
I'm going to see the tribute band, "Chi-Town Transit Authority" in Huntingdon, Tennessee, on April 5.
Vocal groups have been doing this for years. The Platters, Coasters, Temptations, etc.
For most people, it's not about the members, it's about the memories. Only musicians and loyalists prefer the original members.
People go on about this original members. Gary Tallent is the only original E Street Band member besides Bruce himself. What if he dies or quits? Does that mean Bruce should stop using the E Street Band moniker even though Steve Van Zandt, Max Weinberg, and Roy Bittan are all members since 1975? Of course they are official members of the E Street Band along with Lofgren and Scialfa who joined in 1984. Everyone else is a hired gun.
More about original members. Graeme Edge, Ray Thomas, and Mike Pinder were the only original Moody Blues members while John Lodge and Justin Hayward came on after the first album.
Steve Perry was not the original singer for Journey, but many consider Journey not to be Journey without him.
Bottom line, it's not necessarily about having original members.
Saw Chicago a couple of years ago, they were fine. Keep playing, for now.
Chicago could do it probably more plausibly than lots of other bands because that logo is for a lot of non-initiated serious fans the identifier for the band. Really, the only member in the entire history of the band with some general public name recognition was Peter by virtue of a pretty decent post-Chicago solo career and their 80s revival under Foster. So if they found a group of good musicians who could play the material (and even if they could write new-material) and make it all legal, then it is plausible. Would serious fans be into it? Likely not, but as John said, most people who into shit are kind fairweather about it.
Never liked these "cover" bandsl like Skynyd Foreigner that are out there for the money. If they are physically able i think bands like Sabbath,Styx,Chicago ,Journey,Grand Funk should be original if they are going to charge ticket prices like they are original
Ultimately it's strictly a legal issue. If you made the smart choice to trademark the name, then you can do a lot with it. If you missed the boat on trademarking, then you're screwed. Possession is 9/10ths of the law, even in rock n' roll.
Without the original members, it ain't Chicago.
Aka Foreigner it just become a tribute band. Saw Chicago at Radio City Music Hall and there was passion with some of the original members, 20 years ago. Now aways it just by the numbers, theres no heart. My main problem I saw a lot of these band from 70's but at decent prices. $100-200? really?
Some bands wouldn't dare continuing without a single original member. Like Led Zeppelin. Or Rush (if you don't count John Rutsey on their 1st album). Or The Beatles (even though Pete Best was original drummer). Others will replace lead members, or even the whole band. I don't know what the difference is that some bands are ONLY certain members, while others are all replaceable.
Blood, Sweat & Tears was one of the first bands I know where between their 1st album in 1968 and their last in 1980 there are NO original members. Which is saying something for a bad that could have 8-10 members at any given time. Yes recently met that milestone of no original members. When someone dies, okay, I get it. But Jon Anderson is still out there (so is Bill Bruford and Tony Kaye, and Rick Wakeman if another from their pinnacle era counts).
Having 3 originals left in Chicago is sad, but not terrible. I'm more concerned with their musical choices. Some bands like Rush ONLY have 3 members. Lamm, Loughnane and Pankow have all written songs, including hits. They've all sung (though James only lead on 2 songs so far). But if they all go... at what point is it just considered a tribute band?
I certainly would NOT pay money to go see Chicago without any original members. As long as fans know this is the case, the band can tour, I guess, as Chicago: almost more of a "tribute" band now. Ownership of band names has become an issue, as we know, in recent times as we saw with The Guess Who. I had no intention of going to see The Guess Who in recent times without Randy Bachman & Burton Cummings. I saw them on their reunion tour at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton in 2000 - it was superb. Since then, I went to see Bachman-Cummings (since they could no longer tour as The Guess Who). When I go see a band, I want to see the lead songwriters, vocalists, etc. With mixed emotions I am finally seeing April Wine this year - more or less not by choice: They are on the same bill as BTO which also isn't the full original band, obviously. The only reason I am going is that I never saw BTO in its heyday and as long as Randy Bachman (leader writer, lead guitarist, co-vocalist) is heading up BTO, I am interested. It is likely to be bittersweet knowing that most of BTO is not up on stage but sweet to hear Randy deliver those songs. I enjoy his guitar work. Chicago with no original members? Definitely not interested. Should they continue touring as "Chicago"? Good question.
I've stopped going to see them already. My wish is for Robert, James and Lee to stop touring and enjoy their lives. I'd love it even more if they just continued to make the new music that THEY WANT TO MAKE.
Granted the issue of continuing revenue streams and/or licensed replacements, my position remains unchanged. A band without any original members is not really that band. At best, it's a legally sanctioned tribute band. I would also apply that standard to a band that has lost an iconic, face of the band lead singer.
Doesn't that officially make them a tribute band?
Terry Kath had died by the time I discovered Chicago in 82’. That lineup of the 16 album is where I jumped on board. And yes. Discovered all of their work. Shortly after Cetera left and Scheff came in. It was a great fit with 5 original members. Yes is stunk when Seraphine was ousted. Once Champlin was ousted and a bit later Scheff left… I was no longer interested. Walt had health issues before Jason’s departure. As a fan… it is Depressing to watch this lineup. Love Robert, Jimmy and Lee… this lead singer that sounds like a Jason Scheff karaoke sleazy dive bar singer causes me second hand embarrassment! The 3 remains members have integrity in making money while doing what they love. But totally bastardized their history in the process.
Classic lineup over “original”. For example, Steve Perry was not an original member of Journey. He came aboard for the second album.
This is a reason why Tribute Bands are so successful-
Nope.I wouldn't see a cover band at premium ticket prices.Its nothing more than a cash grab for the retired members.
I'm good with it because the music can continue
Ive seen Chicago 3 times, including the original band in 1970.
I love Chicago but I think their day is done
I recently saw Temtations and 4 Tops…No original members..Fantastic
Well then you didn't see the Temptations and the Four Tops. What you saw was Temptations & Four Tops tribute bands.
Okay, but at that point were you enjoying cover bands performing in the name of the original group?
Temptations has one original member in Otis.
OTIS WILLIAMS IS THE LAST ORIGINAL MEMBER OF THE TEMPTATIONS
Just rename Leonid & Friends to "Chicago" and move on.👍
They live in a country that is being bombed every day. Don't see that in their plans.
Leonard who?
Awrsome video thanks
imo, that would be stupid. They have now become a Chicago cover band. Why bother seeing these guys - there are plenty of them around. ❤
I feel any band that changes 1 member should call them shelves version 2. If they change 2 members version 3 …. etc. so Chicago should call themselves Chicago version 10…😂
Most won’t even go see the original fake elvis’s
This is already happening with many other groups. I definitely wouldn't see a Chicago cover band and wouldn't see them for many years back.