Chicago 17 was my first introduction to their music. I was around 10 when it came out. Then later in the 80’s Jason joined in and I was a teenager listening different genres of music. Mainly Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Genesis and all that great stuff. Chicago of the 80’s for me was more about the girl I had a crush on and then my first girlfriend. But a friend older than me played some of the old Chicago songs one day and I was very surprised how different they sounded back then. From that moment I loved it and started to get into the Old Days of the band. Man, that music was bad ass. Just the best times of the band in my opinion. The Foster era had a great production and good songs but Chicago from the beginning all the way even until after Terry Kath passed away, that album “ Hot Streets” (which many don’t really care for) was still a very good album. But I’m open to anything that is well done, so I can enjoy the old Chicago as well as the 80’s Chicago. I prefer the old one though. Same thing with the Pink Floyd of Waters and the one after he left the band and Gilmour took over. I just love all that music. I don’t get it when some fans get stuck with the old or the newer but can’t appreciate both. It makes me think of a very closed minded and stubborn person when I hear or read comments like: “Nah, that band is not the same without him” or “ he will never be like the other one.” Of course!, there can only be one. Most bands have to evolve in order to keep succeeding. If they stick with the same sound, at one point, their career will go downhill. But we all have the option to go back and listen the records and songs we love the most.
The thing about old Chicago music was that it was truly a band, everyone contributing. They were all so good and the music was more diverse, you had rock, blues, folk, funk and of course the ballads. Their 80s sound was good too, but was more ballad heavy and that killed their dynamics. I don't blame Peter for that, he wrote great songs that became the hits, but where were the other guys? How come they couldn't write anymore? If you ask me, they got lazy, they just used Cetera to write all their hits and blamed him for not sounding like Chicago. That's why Peter gets my respect, he was the man who actually got it going and reviving their careers and he got crapped on by his former bandmates, what a bunch of ingrates.
One of the most talented; humble; loyal & hardworking musos. This is the true character of Jason. All the nonsense written about him is just to take a dig at someone with an honest work ethic. How many others are there who served a successful rock act for 30 years? The only other cat that comes to mind is RICHIE SAMBORA from Bon Jovi. Both class bands with absolute pros who deserve their HOF Induction. Sadly; I think JS was left out of induction which says alot about others attitude towards JS. Were I the boss of any outfit; I would reward LOYALTY above all else. Sigh!! JS is truly missed. The period of 1980 : 1994 was the best era of this amazing band!
chicago had a huge hole to fill when peter left and jason was a reasonable choice. i think he sounds better on record than he does live but he kept the band going for alot more years good for you jason
But he didn't generate as many hits as Cetera did during Cetera's 17 yr tenure. Jason couldn't keep the Chicago sound contemporary, they weren't relevant in the 90s.
@@stubbornascrows2625 So Chicago goes totally retro and does a big band album in 1995. Doesn't make any sense. How are they going to get new young fans from that?
@@lamarravery4094 I don’t disagree when it comes that album and what you’re saying. I think at that point they had just realized that music has shifted so much that their style wasn’t going to be relevant in the sense of the popular music that was going on at that time.
Thanks for posting this video!! I'm glad I discovered it. It definitely should be seen by everybody who uis a true Jason Scheff fan. He looks so adorable and tender, eating his hot dog, like still finding his place in the band. These are good visuals. Thanks a lot for putting them here.
Well, they were a solid unit for some time. If only there could be a band like this one in today's music. Both Jason and the sounds of Peter Cetera were amazing as are all the members .
My band Run 4 Cover opened for Chicago a few years ago, and Jason was the nicest guy ever. The entire band was so friendly and incredible to work with, but Jason and I really hit it off....if you ever read this, Jason, come on back to Visalia!!
I remember seeing one of these Entertainment Tonight shows introducing the new Chicago singer many years ago, and the other members acquainting him with their favorite hotdog stand. TH-cam is fucking amazing.
Yes, I agree. Some fans have been harsh to Jason but I think he has done a nice job trying to fill Peter's place. It is not close to the Chicago we grew up with but he has done a good job. I thought the albums "18", "19" and "21" were all good despite some negative comments by fans.
Everything went to hell with ........ Unfortunate absence. However, they regrouped and became the new Chicago! Love em as much as ever! 60 yrs old still rocking Chcagos old albums, screw CD's, vinyl is the only proper rendition of Chicago's best! Love you forever guys! I was there, I lived it, it is part of me.
I love you and respect you Jason. Will see you with Todd, Mickey, etc.....I'm a Todd junkie but I'm coming specifically to see you! Row 4 baby! Akron Ohio
Foster really developed Cetera's voice in the studio to create that famous Cetera sound. That famous Foster/Cetera sound that made 16 and 17 a huge success also would be responsible for Cetera's inevitable departure.
I loved JASON he was awesome!!❤ I actually thought he was Peter back in the 80s. I took my daughter to this concert in the park in Jacksonville Florida in 1988. She was 3yrs old. She always loved music 🎶 🎵 ❤ sweet girl she had no choice I took her to all of my concerts but I know she loved them up until the day she died
It's just sad that he was preceded by PC. The endless comparison sucks. Their voice may have a similar ring to it, but he has his own style. It's just a matter of accepting that they are unique in their own ways. They both breathed life into the band's music anyways
I realize Jason has been with the band longer than Peter Cetera. But it's weird hearing him sing lead on songs that were originally performed by Peter Cetera.
I agree. I think Jason is a nice guy but he will never be able to sing ceteras songs. They should have hired Peter's brother because he sounds a lot like Peter.
Chicago had more hits with Cetera on lead, than with Jason even though Jason was with the band twice as long. I think Jason only had 3 hits with the band singing lead. That's a testament to Cetera's vocal prowess.
Very true and correct. Joe Mantegna was way off when he said the 90's unit was the strongest ever.The best unit was from 1967 until Terry's passing in early '78. When they made their comeback with "16" and "17", Bill Champlin did a great job with Peter and Bobby. But, that original unit was Chicago's best.
+Robert G. Through a record co. rep... here's Jason's story - jasonscheff.com/how-i-got-into-the-band-chicago/ (Scroll down to Chicago comes a-knockin')
I think the idea was to find someone with a close enough sound to Peter. Especially if you listen to will you still love me, it's very close to Peters voice. I think they tried to make as smooth a transition from Peter to the next lead as they could. They struggled to find someone to step into the lead after Peter went.
Chicago picked the right one to continue their era and that is Jason Scheff who’s with the band for more than 30 years.. who knows JS might come back to the band!! Hopefully!!
I have loved this band since the 60s!! I have loved everyone they replaced Peter Cetera. I love Peter ❤ and bought his album he produced after he left the band .. I love Jason ❤ funny because I hadn't seen them for year's too busy raising my girls!! We didn't have internet or cell phones back then. When my sweet girl was 4 in 89 I took her to a concert in the park here in Northeast Florida it was beautiful!! It was 🤪 to be quite honest I thought it was Peter Cetera singing.
Gotta love all the videos with subs playing with the band. How often do you see subs in the Tower Of Power? This band has sometimes played with no one from the original band except Robert Lamm onstage.
i stopped seriously getting into any new Chicago stuff after their 1978 Hot Streets album. That is the only new album by them i liked after Terry Kath died.
@John Locke Trumpeter Lee Thornburg was subbing for Loughnane, whose wife was having a baby at the time of this performance. wikimili.com/en/Lee_Thornburg
It's been nice reading everyone's reflections and opinions. Having been observant when watching Chicago videos and interviews, documentaries, etc.; I think much of Cetera's outside personality was a defensive false bravado. My impression is that the band simply never 'took' to him. We can make lots of excuses as to why. Like, he joined the band 10 or so months after the others '67-'68 and was never bonded with the others. Or whatever. I think Peter was a gentler kind of young man and all the others were more Chicago 'gangsta' if you will. That set PC up to be the runt of the litter; the outcast kid in class who all the cliquey alpha males bullied. He never had a chance when they saw him as a weakling pussy. So, when he opened his mouth to talk, he had to be louder, cockier & tougher (sounding) than the others, to compete or measure up. But they never liked him. So, one can imagine how PC rising up musically with his voice, his funky soulful bass licks, his writing their first #1 single and plentiful more of the same would have REALLY pissed these guys OFF. The scrawny, shy blonde kid became an icon and they never forgave him for it. They really all need serious counseling to make peace with their feelings. Cos Pankow, Parazaidar, Lamm and Loughnane are still smearing Cetera every chance they get. Their conflict is they claim to hate his music but were made millionaires off Peter, didn't mind cashing those checks, and continued playing Cetera originals decades after he left. There is hypocrisy in this. If they are going to enjoy the fruits of Peter's labors, they need to: drop the bitterness, admit he was one hell-of-a singer songwriter and performer, and be grateful he was so good at all he did. They need to be willing to admit treating Peter the way they did contributed to his acting egotistical. The man lost ten years of concert revenue from '85 to '95 when his record label refused to support and promote him. He did no touring until 1995. His label, Warner, was hoping he'd fail and go crawling back to Chicago. In a nicer world, Peter and the original members would have reunited to perform together again. But some still have axes to grind. And too much deep, soul-crushing harm has been done for that to happen. I am glad all have carried on with their music and hope all live long happy and healthy lives.
@moodylicious Great description and totally agree. It's sad that this treatment of other band members has continued even after Peter's departure. Specifically Danny, Bill, Jason(?), Jeff Coffey and Tris (the latter two left less than 48 hrs. apart... and from what I hear, it was no coincidence). There has been mistreatment and badmouthing on the part of "management" (as in "founding members") for years. Don't know if it's egos, contract disputes, or both. The last show I attended was when Neil joined in 2018 and personally, I don't think he's a good fit for the band's image. Jeff had given new life to the band after Jason left and losing him was a BIG mistake. I've become pretty disillusioned, I guess. (Still remembering the Kath years!) Yes, I wish them all well... but don't know if or when I will see another Chicago concert. Thanks for commenting!
@@60s70sChicagoRock Thank you for your valued input! I couldn't agree more. Seems the Founders have ego issues and fire and hire people like house-servants. I agree Neil does not fit the bands image. And no, I haven't sat all the way through a song Neil has sung w/ CHI. That band has made many ill-conceived choices and put too much bad karma out into the ethos, in the destructive toxic things they can't keep from exiting their mouths. Just exercise some self control with your petty dig, BOYS! You come off as being petty, jealous, bitter and vindictive; especially in reference to Cetera. That's ancient history. Put your money where your mouths are and just stop playing his songs!!
Nice analysis, but you got some things wrong. They picked Cetera to be in the band, they needed a tenor voice and bass player and he was the best in town. He wasn't as awkward as you would have believe, he gelled with the band, he was very close to Danny and Terry. He even helped Lee write Call on Me and didn't ask for co writing credit. He probably felt stunted since Robert and James were the main composers, so when they had their writer's block or drug abuse issues, Peter finally had the chance to introduce his songs and his songs started to become the big hits, and Robert and James got jealous. Peter built his self confidence with his composition successes to the point where he evolved and wanted to make his own music. The band became dependent on him and didn't want him to leave, but by then there was so much animosity that his departure was inevitable. And Peter got tired of touring, so when he went solo it was his choice not to tour. And he didn't have enough solo hits to tour for awhile.
@@lamarravery4094 I agree and disagree. Many lengthy comments I have written backing these thoughts up on the immediate outcome once PC went solo & so many other band commentary. And no, I don't believe it was his choice not to tour and not to promote his solo albums. I've written - some would contend - way too much of my thoughts and findings on Chicago and Cetera over time. Some months ago, I made a decision to back off from writing so extensively, as YT commenting has devolved with the reliance on texting: heavy acronym shorthand, incomprehensible gibberish, misspelled content, mixed up grammar, nonsensical lines it is doubtful the writer even knew what they were meaning to say. I gather our phones do not make for a proper writing platform. Yes, youtube is not The Writer's Corner & no one is honing their skills in preparation for the Pulitzer Prize. We/I get it. Few take the time to output effort anymore. Why bother? We are strangers and it is not worth the expenditure of one's valuable time and brain power. Besides, the tangible visceral hate much of the population makes no effort hiding from their fellow man anymore, has reached an intensity stunning to see. But the breakdown of society is another story best left for another time or place. I have learned much about Chicago, have studied their interactions and body language over the decades and have come to some conclusions written at length here and there. My thoughts are no more valuable or less credible than anyone else's. This is what makes these forums of personal exchange so fascinating, enjoyable, infuriating and enlightening. Nice talking to you. PS. The strong friendship of Peter & Terry & their ladies & kids was likely the main constant Cetera relied on which got him through the bullying & public insults of James, Robert, Walt & Lee. James & Robert the worse offenders, but others bad, as well. That one-sided band-produced PC and DS hatchet job bio-doc, directed & written by the cousin of keyboardist & mediocre vocalist; - sorry (don't recall or care to look up the dude's name, he's not worth it) that aired on CNN was a disappointment. Sure, the concert footage and interviews are always a treat but they made sure their axes were sharpened for grinding and grind they did! Those founders have deep issues they can't put behind them and their hate is transparently displayed every chance they get, obvious to any w/ a discerning mind. Get therapy CHI boys!
i like chicago after cetera left but I disagree with the statement of the current chicago being the strongest. I think the original line up was perfect. No one could replace terry kath or peter cetera. After kath died the group lost its original sound tho.
Of course, decades later the story is revealed to be quite different - they kicked Peter Cetera out because he didn't want to tour extensively and wanted more time off to spend with his baby daughter and record his own album. He didn't want to leave - just some time off. And Jimmy Pankow can't even bring himself to say Peter Cetera's name when talking about CHICAGO's history in interviews - it's so immature. THEN 5 years after that they FIRE founding member Danny Seraphine, their original drummer - all this after saying that 'No one get's fired from CHICAGO, they quit or die'. What a bunch of BS! Their Documentary was garbage and full of half truths - and almost all the newer musicians that played with them don't have much good things to say about their experiences being part of CHICAGO. Now Jason Scheff, who is talented, is GONE. Bill Champlin is GONE - and has nothing good to say about these guys. CHICAGO is now basically a 'cover band' for their own older songs - and they can't even play them that well anymore. They were co-headliners with on a tour with EARTH, WIND & FIRE, who blew them off the stage every night and made them look like Old Men!
@Carl Jacobson Agree totally. Don't forget about the departures of Jeff Coffey (took Jason's place and was AMAZING for the short time he was there) and drummer Tris Imboden (with the band for 28 years). They left less than 48 hrs. apart, early January 2018. Not a coincidence, and not because they were 'tired of touring.' I haven't been to a concert since Neil Donell first joined. Not a good fit, imo. Such a disappointment.
It is kind of pity how they go out of their way to talk about their former band mates, not just Cetera. It's like they have a court order so if they accidentally mention any of their former bandmates names, they'll get sued, lol.
I have seen them over 100 times in 40 years, and without Jason, Bill, Tris, Walt, Keith, the current assemble with that karaoke 🎤 lead singer is a joke. I won't spend $1 to pay for Jimmy Pankow alimony or Robert Lamm ego. Turn out the lights!
Just saw both bands together and Chicago still has an issue with lead vocals esp compared to EW&F. Cetera was great on recordings but he was also a younger man. And in later concert footage in the 80s even HE had trouble with his own recorded high notes. Those high notes are not for men over 40, so many have tried and eventually been replaced. If Chicago could find a younger singer, great. Coffey was an excellent replacement for Jason, who IMHO was almost always pitchy in concert. Saw them on the ‘85 or ‘86 tour when he was young and probably nervous, but Jason’s high notes were all over the place. And it didn’t markedly improve over the years. Good bass playing or not. I don’t got to a show and pay to hear you miss high notes. Either change the key, have them sing an octave lower, or get the right person for the job. Otherwise, it’s like watching NASCAR. With only three original members still looking great but Lamm not singing as much(he’s 79), I think it’s time to head off into the sunset. Tastefully. NOT with a farewell tour. Please.
@johngastaldo6419 I agree with most. The average fan however, will not be listening for pitch perfect notes during a concert. Unless that singer is consistently blowing the same wrong notes. Yes, Jason had problems and Jeff did too... but as a performer, Jeff Coffey lit a fire for Chicago when they needed it. It's too bad they blew it with him (and with Tris at the same time). I gave the band one more chance with Neil Donnell, and that was it for me. I still remember "the way it was," having seen Terry Kath four times. I think the end is coming for Robert... Lee and James will follow. But if they can still fill stadiums as a cover band for the 80's fans... they probably will. They started as a faceless band, and it will probably end that way too.
I can respect your opinion since there are fans who worship TK (RIP) However based on their recent induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame I would say that Lamm, Pankow & Cetera were the strongest unit that kept the CHICAGO hit machine running for 20+ years.
I'm sorry, I can't :( When Google took over TH-cam, they made a lot of stupid changes. One of them was disabling the ability to reset the 'syndication'/availability on mobile devices. Unfortunately this applies to anything with copyrighted material, which this vid has. I am just as frustrated... can't access many of my own vids on my phone!!
Typical these days with copyright violation profit paranoia going around! When are artists' labels/managers going to learn not to try and profit off of yesterday's glories... these artists are only as good as their last performance! Silly to try and profit yet again off of things that aired publicly so many years ago-- how greedy!
Jason brought great things to the table with Chi but his job as a replacement sucks! He's not a Cetera nor does he have the range. However when Jason was himself with the band singing his own songs that where he shined. Chicago 21, SOS, and XXX was where he showcased his singing, songwriting, and bass playing is where he shines. I like Jason for Jason and not "Cetera role".
Cetera clone. Well yeah lol. David Foster even admits that was his idea in order to keep Chicago going after Peter left. Probably not the best idea, but he did what he had to in order to sell records.
I wish they had replaced Cetera with two people: A singer and a bass player. Scheff, like his dad, is a great bass player. Unfortunately, he does not have the range to sing Cetera's stuff. Never did. That's not a jab at the guy, just a matter of physics and physiology. I always thought it was kind of unfair to expect that of him. He sounds great on the studio stuff, where he can record when his voice is in good shape, but on 95% of the live footage I've seen, he sounds like he's really hurting.
Anthony Delamont I agree with you to a certain extent. I think he originally had all the range he needed but years haven't been kind to his voice. Bill Champlin even more so. The current version of Chicago is nothing more than a cover band.
+Anthony Delamont Yes, and he seems to be straining more as he gets older, which is usually par for the course. What I don't understand though, is in the early days, he seemed to have a good hold where his bass work applied. As time goes on....UH-OH!NO! LOL, anyway, as he get's older, he seems to have to watch his fret work more, and not just on the licks. Also, he seems to have become more and more BORED when he sings and plays. I'm sure that these things do not help how others see him. As a matter of fact, it's one of those things that are uncomfortable to watch, and you can't ignore it since he's right up in front.
+Richard Stephens Yes regarding poor Bill. He could do all sorts of things with his voice, and still play keys like an octopus. The last 5 or so years before leaving, he couldn't sing a sentence. So unfortunate since he used to be able to do the vocals of 2 or 3 people at a time. So sorry. Kinda like modeling or sports, you sometimes only get a narrow window. Bet hey, Lamm's voice cracks, and he can't hit some of the highs. In just one sentence of Colour My World, his cracking and straining on those falsetto runs, ruining the complete, short song. Lower your range??
He was just saying that to be nice!!!! and yeah it is a no brainer Chicago's best and most creative material was from 1969-1978. Although i do have a soft spot for most not all of the Hot Streets album. Jason Scheff seems like a great guy but he cant sing too well.
Could Scheff ever fill Peter's shoes? Jason Scheff could NEVER fill the shoes of Peter Cetera with Chicago. Not a voice of the same caliber by a damn sight or sound. Nonetheless, I love the 1989 number: We Can Last Forever
No one can replace Cetera, like no one could ever replace Kath. Both were one in a billion, but Jason did pretty well on his own. He came close to Cetera's vocals and he also composed. Jason and Bill kept Chicago's legacy going into the 90s. So I salute them for their efforts. 19 was a pleasant surprise, such a departure from the tenor ballads. Bill finally got a chance to shine and Jason had some gems in there as well. Runaround was my favorite Bill and Jason calloboration. What Kind of Man Would I Be, We Can Last Forever and You're Not Alone were my favorites.
i find his Dad Jerry to be a better bass player and Peter's vocals to be much better range. Chicago should have disbanded after Peter left. Chicago without the late Terry , Peter and Danny they are like CCR without John and Tom Fogerty or Three Dog Night without lead vocalists Cory Wells (who died in October) and Chuck Negron now. Or The Beatles without John Lennon and George Harrison.
I hear what you're saying, Chicago is an empty shell of its former self, but I didn't want to see that band die. They just add more members and keep it going maybe put out a new album once every ten yrs now.
+SoJustCool you know what it was?? A musician playing the audience. Especially if a man's on stage, & you seem to be an interested female. AND if you are good looking...I've been invited backstage "after the show", over the mic. This is while I'm on my chair, dancing with my boyfriend. My brother & his friend were in the "cheap seats", and after the concert, my bf & I were talking about it. My bro nudges his friend and exclaims, "I told you it my sister they were talking about". I use to love to tease my poor mom when I was young and announce, "When I grow up, I'm going to be a nun, or a groupie". LOL Instead, I dated several musicians, because I knew music, loved music, and worked in the industry. I just didn't marry a musician. I'm too jealous. Not unreasonably, but realistically. Enjoy the feelings, 50 show up in no time at all
Sorry guys but Chicago has made some plain awful choices after Terry passed. Followed the band my whole life and Chris Pinnic was the only person who fit their style, The rest were just painful to watch and listen to.
@@chriscianciolo5823 He is a solid guitar player. He just seemed like he never hooked up in the groove. He played like he was thinking about what he was going have for dinner that night.
Jason brings so much to the band. A great singer and bass player. Another one of the reasons they are the greatest band
Chicago 17 was my first introduction to their music. I was around 10 when it came out. Then later in the 80’s Jason joined in and I was a teenager listening different genres of music. Mainly Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Genesis and all that great stuff. Chicago of the 80’s for me was more about the girl I had a crush on and then my first girlfriend. But a friend older than me played some of the old Chicago songs one day and I was very surprised how different they sounded back then. From that moment I loved it and started to get into the Old Days of the band. Man, that music was bad ass. Just the best times of the band in my opinion. The Foster era had a great production and good songs but Chicago from the beginning all the way even until after Terry Kath passed away, that album “ Hot Streets” (which many don’t really care for) was still a very good album. But I’m open to anything that is well done, so I can enjoy the old Chicago as well as the 80’s Chicago. I prefer the old one though. Same thing with the Pink Floyd of Waters and the one after he left the band and Gilmour took over. I just love all that music. I don’t get it when some fans get stuck with the old or the newer but can’t appreciate both. It makes me think of a very closed minded and stubborn person when I hear or read comments like: “Nah, that band is not the same without him” or “ he will never be like the other one.” Of course!, there can only be one. Most bands have to evolve in order to keep succeeding. If they stick with the same sound, at one point, their career will go downhill. But we all have the option to go back and listen the records and songs we love the most.
The thing about old Chicago music was that it was truly a band, everyone contributing. They were all so good and the music was more diverse, you had rock, blues, folk, funk and of course the ballads. Their 80s sound was good too, but was more ballad heavy and that killed their dynamics. I don't blame Peter for that, he wrote great songs that became the hits, but where were the other guys? How come they couldn't write anymore? If you ask me, they got lazy, they just used Cetera to write all their hits and blamed him for not sounding like Chicago. That's why Peter gets my respect, he was the man who actually got it going and reviving their careers and he got crapped on by his former bandmates, what a bunch of ingrates.
Jason, you are one of a kind!! love you so much!
One of the most talented; humble; loyal & hardworking musos. This is the true character of Jason. All the nonsense written about him is just to take a dig at someone with an honest work ethic. How many others are there who served a successful rock act for 30 years? The only other cat that comes to mind is RICHIE SAMBORA from Bon Jovi. Both class bands with absolute pros who deserve their HOF Induction. Sadly; I think JS was left out of induction which says alot about others attitude towards JS. Were I the boss of any outfit; I would reward LOYALTY above all else. Sigh!! JS is truly missed. The period of 1980 : 1994 was the best era of this amazing band!
No offense to Peter, but Jason added a little funk to Chicago! Love it! It keeps the updated flow of genre for today’s generation
I agree. I love peter’s voice but jason’s voice is more upbeat. Also he is pleasing to the eyes 😜
peter cetera is a legend, ..jason is great singer too, but no one beats peter cetera
@@clarisaavila1024 Have you heard early Chicago? Peter could rock out and he had some soul.
But peter will allways the best
YES and up to NOW!! really my idol❤❤❤
chicago had a huge hole to fill when peter left and jason was a reasonable choice. i think he sounds better on record than he does live but he kept the band going for alot more years good for you jason
stratocasterman 8135 Well said.
But he didn't generate as many hits as Cetera did during Cetera's 17 yr tenure. Jason couldn't keep the Chicago sound contemporary, they weren't relevant in the 90s.
@@lamarravery4094 That’s due to the shift in music (with hip hop, r&b, and grunge).
@@stubbornascrows2625 So Chicago goes totally retro and does a big band album in 1995. Doesn't make any sense. How are they going to get new young fans from that?
@@lamarravery4094 I don’t disagree when it comes that album and what you’re saying. I think at that point they had just realized that music has shifted so much that their style wasn’t going to be relevant in the sense of the popular music that was going on at that time.
Thanks for posting this video!! I'm glad I discovered it. It definitely should be seen by everybody who uis a true Jason Scheff fan. He looks so adorable and tender, eating his hot dog, like still finding his place in the band. These are good visuals. Thanks a lot for putting them here.
Awwww😀 Jason...So tender, young and sweet back in the day!!!
Well, they were a solid unit for some time. If only there could be a band like this one in today's music. Both Jason and the sounds of Peter Cetera were amazing as are all the members .
My band Run 4 Cover opened for Chicago a few years ago, and Jason was the nicest guy ever. The entire band was so friendly and incredible to work with, but Jason and I really hit it off....if you ever read this, Jason, come on back to Visalia!!
+Mike Wilson You could probably msg. him here on his YT channel or on FB. Like you said, he's a really nice guy, and he'd probably get back to you!
+60s70sChicagoRock I agree with you guys,This is awesone...
I remember seeing one of these Entertainment Tonight shows introducing the new Chicago singer many years ago, and the other members acquainting him with their favorite hotdog stand. TH-cam is fucking amazing.
Awww bless him gorgeous and cute ❤
Yes, I agree. Some fans have been harsh to Jason but I think he has done a nice job trying to fill Peter's place. It is not close to the Chicago we grew up with but he has done a good job. I thought the albums "18", "19" and "21" were all good despite some negative comments by fans.
Everything went to hell with ........ Unfortunate absence. However, they regrouped and became the new Chicago! Love em as much as ever! 60 yrs old still rocking Chcagos old albums, screw CD's, vinyl is the only proper rendition of Chicago's best! Love you forever guys! I was there, I lived it, it is part of me.
I love you and respect you Jason. Will see you with Todd, Mickey, etc.....I'm a Todd junkie but I'm coming specifically to see you! Row 4 baby! Akron Ohio
Chicago was always about the logo, not the individuals. MTV highlighted Peter, so he decided to go on his own.
@Stephen Baker - Peter went out on his own because David Foster groomed him for a solo career.
Jason was the perfect replacement!
The absolute truth
Foster really developed Cetera's voice in the studio to create that famous Cetera sound. That famous Foster/Cetera sound that made 16 and 17 a huge success also would be responsible for Cetera's inevitable departure.
I like Jason Scheff’s version of 25 or 6 to 4 album version.
He seduced me with his vocals last month when I saw him live...I didn't expect that...
OMG, thank you so much for sharing this. FMR!!
I loved JASON he was awesome!!❤ I actually thought he was Peter back in the 80s. I took my daughter to this concert in the park in Jacksonville Florida in 1988. She was 3yrs old. She always loved music 🎶 🎵 ❤ sweet girl she had no choice I took her to all of my concerts but I know she loved them up until the day she died
It's just sad that he was preceded by PC. The endless comparison sucks. Their voice may have a similar ring to it, but he has his own style. It's just a matter of accepting that they are unique in their own ways. They both breathed life into the band's music anyways
I realize Jason has been with the band longer than Peter Cetera. But it's weird hearing him sing lead on songs that were originally performed by Peter Cetera.
I agree. I think Jason is a nice guy but he will never be able to sing ceteras songs. They should have hired Peter's brother because he sounds a lot like Peter.
+loveclassics1969 Well he probably wasn't interested, or he'd get strong consideration.
Chicago had more hits with Cetera on lead, than with Jason even though Jason was with the band twice as long. I think Jason only had 3 hits with the band singing lead. That's a testament to Cetera's vocal prowess.
Very true and correct. Joe Mantegna was way off when he said the 90's unit was the strongest ever.The best unit was from 1967 until Terry's passing in early '78. When they made their comeback with "16" and "17", Bill Champlin did a great job with Peter and Bobby. But, that original unit was Chicago's best.
I think I read many years ago that Cetera actually advised Scheff, either directly or through a record company representative, to try out for Chicago.
+Robert G. Through a record co. rep... here's Jason's story -
jasonscheff.com/how-i-got-into-the-band-chicago/ (Scroll down to Chicago comes a-knockin')
...¡Ese hombre era bello! ¡Ese hombre era hermoso!!
Y hoy día sigue siendo bello y hermoso!! :D!!!
Jason Scheff is the son of Jerry Scheff, bass legand player.
I think the idea was to find someone with a close enough sound to Peter. Especially if you listen to will you still love me, it's very close to Peters voice. I think they tried to make as smooth a transition from Peter to the next lead as they could. They struggled to find someone to step into the lead after Peter went.
Jason did it for 30 years.
That's what I'm going to eat...Hot dogs!!! And Jason looks so hot and sweet at the same time!!! Good video, thanks for posting it!!!
Tonite I just ate hot dogs...again!! Hahaha!! Enjoying this video, as always!! :D
Love him)
I believe in Good Radio (song sung by Jason Scheff in the closing credits) in Hollywood Hot Tubs (1984 movie).
Thanks for the info, will check it out :)
His story is the same as Arnel Pineda of Journey
Chicago picked the right one to continue their era and that is Jason Scheff who’s with the band for more than 30 years.. who knows JS might come back to the band!! Hopefully!!
They were lucky to have found Jason. I remember they were trying to get Richard Page of Mr. Mister and Bobby Caldwell to replace Cetera.
I have loved this band since the 60s!! I have loved everyone they replaced Peter Cetera. I love Peter ❤ and bought his album he produced after he left the band .. I love Jason ❤ funny because I hadn't seen them for year's too busy raising my girls!! We didn't have internet or cell phones back then. When my sweet girl was 4 in 89 I took her to a concert in the park here in Northeast Florida it was beautiful!! It was 🤪 to be quite honest I thought it was Peter Cetera singing.
Awesome!
he's so damned cute here
Gotta love all the videos with subs playing with the band. How often do you see subs in the Tower Of Power? This band has sometimes played with no one from the original band except Robert Lamm onstage.
i stopped seriously getting into any new Chicago stuff after their 1978 Hot Streets album. That is the only new album by them i liked after Terry Kath died.
indeed
Jason was so cute
Where's Lee in the live clip?
@John Locke Trumpeter Lee Thornburg was subbing for Loughnane, whose wife was having a baby at the time of this performance. wikimili.com/en/Lee_Thornburg
Might as well have been - We're phoning it in!
hey your the guy from Babys day out movies.
It's been nice reading everyone's reflections and opinions.
Having been observant when watching Chicago videos and interviews, documentaries, etc.; I think much of Cetera's outside personality was a defensive false bravado. My impression is that the band simply never 'took' to him.
We can make lots of excuses as to why. Like, he joined the band 10 or so months after the others '67-'68 and was never bonded with the others. Or whatever.
I think Peter was a gentler kind of young man and all the others were more Chicago 'gangsta' if you will. That set PC up to be the runt of the litter; the outcast kid in class who all the cliquey alpha males bullied.
He never had a chance when they saw him as a weakling pussy. So, when he opened his mouth to talk, he had to be louder, cockier & tougher (sounding) than the others, to compete or measure up. But they never liked him.
So, one can imagine how PC rising up musically with his voice, his funky soulful bass licks, his writing their first #1 single and plentiful more of the same would have REALLY pissed these guys OFF.
The scrawny, shy blonde kid became an icon and they never forgave him for it.
They really all need serious counseling to make peace with their feelings. Cos Pankow, Parazaidar, Lamm and Loughnane
are still smearing Cetera every chance they get. Their conflict is they claim to hate his music but were made millionaires off Peter, didn't mind cashing those checks, and continued playing Cetera originals decades after he left.
There is hypocrisy in this.
If they are going to enjoy the fruits of Peter's labors, they need to: drop the bitterness, admit he was one hell-of-a singer songwriter and performer, and be grateful he was so good at all he did.
They need to be willing to admit treating Peter the way they did contributed to his acting egotistical.
The man lost ten years of concert revenue from '85 to '95 when his record label refused to support and promote him. He did no touring until 1995. His label, Warner, was hoping he'd fail and go crawling back to Chicago.
In a nicer world, Peter and the original members would have reunited to perform together again. But some still have axes to grind.
And too much deep, soul-crushing harm has been done for that to happen.
I am glad all have carried on with their music and hope all live long happy and healthy lives.
@moodylicious Great description and totally agree. It's sad that this treatment of other band members has continued even after Peter's departure. Specifically Danny, Bill, Jason(?), Jeff Coffey and Tris (the latter two left less than 48 hrs. apart... and from what I hear, it was no coincidence). There has been mistreatment and badmouthing on the part of "management" (as in "founding members") for years. Don't know if it's egos, contract disputes, or both. The last show I attended was when Neil joined in 2018 and personally, I don't think he's a good fit for the band's image. Jeff had given new life to the band after Jason left and losing him was a BIG mistake. I've become pretty disillusioned, I guess. (Still remembering the Kath years!) Yes, I wish them all well... but don't know if or when I will see another Chicago concert. Thanks for commenting!
@@60s70sChicagoRock Thank you for your valued input! I couldn't agree more. Seems the Founders have ego issues and fire and hire people like house-servants.
I agree Neil does not fit the bands image.
And no, I haven't sat all the way through a song Neil has sung w/ CHI. That band has made many ill-conceived choices and put too much bad karma out into the ethos, in the destructive toxic things they can't keep from exiting their mouths. Just exercise some self control with your petty dig, BOYS!
You come off as being petty, jealous, bitter and vindictive; especially in reference to Cetera. That's ancient history. Put your money where your mouths are and just stop playing his songs!!
Nice analysis, but you got some things wrong. They picked Cetera to be in the band, they needed a tenor voice and bass player and he was the best in town. He wasn't as awkward as you would have believe, he gelled with the band, he was very close to Danny and Terry. He even helped Lee write Call on Me and didn't ask for co writing credit. He probably felt stunted since Robert and James were the main composers, so when they had their writer's block or drug abuse issues, Peter finally had the chance to introduce his songs and his songs started to become the big hits, and Robert and James got jealous. Peter built his self confidence with his composition successes to the point where he evolved and wanted to make his own music. The band became dependent on him and didn't want him to leave, but by then there was so much animosity that his departure was inevitable. And Peter got tired of touring, so when he went solo it was his choice not to tour. And he didn't have enough solo hits to tour for awhile.
@@lamarravery4094 I agree and disagree. Many lengthy comments I have written backing these thoughts up on the immediate outcome once PC went solo & so many other band commentary. And no, I don't believe it was his choice not to tour and not to promote his solo albums. I've written - some would contend - way too much of my thoughts and findings on Chicago and Cetera over time. Some months ago, I made a decision to back off from writing so extensively, as YT commenting has devolved with the reliance on texting: heavy acronym shorthand, incomprehensible gibberish, misspelled content, mixed up grammar, nonsensical lines it is doubtful the writer even knew what they were meaning to say. I gather our phones do not make for a proper writing platform. Yes, youtube is not The Writer's Corner & no one is honing their skills in preparation for the Pulitzer Prize. We/I get it. Few take the time to output effort anymore. Why bother? We are strangers and it is not worth the expenditure of one's valuable time and brain power. Besides, the tangible visceral hate much of the population makes no effort hiding from their fellow man anymore, has reached an intensity stunning to see. But the breakdown of society is another story best left for another time or place.
I have learned much about Chicago, have studied their interactions and body language over the decades and have come to some conclusions written at length here and there.
My thoughts are no more valuable or less credible than anyone else's.
This is what makes these forums of personal exchange so fascinating, enjoyable, infuriating and enlightening.
Nice talking to you.
PS. The strong friendship of Peter & Terry & their ladies & kids was likely the main constant Cetera relied on which got him through the bullying & public insults of James, Robert, Walt & Lee. James & Robert the worse offenders, but others bad, as well.
That one-sided band-produced PC and DS hatchet job bio-doc, directed & written by the cousin of keyboardist & mediocre vocalist; - sorry (don't recall or care to look up the dude's name, he's not worth it) that aired on CNN was a disappointment. Sure, the concert footage and interviews are always a treat but they made sure their axes were sharpened for grinding and grind they did! Those founders have deep issues they can't put behind them and their hate is transparently displayed every chance they get, obvious to any w/ a discerning mind. Get therapy CHI boys!
Omg you need to get out more dame
anyone associated with the Elvis band is pretty darn good... son no less that the elvis bassist jerry scheft.
i like chicago after cetera left but I disagree with the statement of the current chicago being the strongest. I think the original line up was perfect. No one could replace terry kath or peter cetera. After kath died the group lost its original sound tho.
It’s Fat Tony
Jason is better looking than Cetera and his rendition of Will You Still Love Me is my favourite
His unique voice really resemblance Peter Cetera.
Of course, decades later the story is revealed to be quite different - they kicked Peter Cetera out because he didn't want to tour extensively and wanted more time off to spend with his baby daughter and record his own album. He didn't want to leave - just some time off.
And Jimmy Pankow can't even bring himself to say Peter Cetera's name when talking about CHICAGO's history in interviews - it's so immature.
THEN 5 years after that they FIRE founding member Danny Seraphine, their original drummer - all this after saying that 'No one get's fired from CHICAGO, they quit or die'.
What a bunch of BS!
Their Documentary was garbage and full of half truths - and almost all the newer musicians that played with them don't have much good things to say about their experiences being part of CHICAGO.
Now Jason Scheff, who is talented, is GONE.
Bill Champlin is GONE - and has nothing good to say about these guys.
CHICAGO is now basically a 'cover band' for their own older songs - and they can't even play them that well anymore.
They were co-headliners with on a tour with EARTH, WIND & FIRE, who blew them off the stage every night and made them look like Old Men!
@Carl Jacobson Agree totally. Don't forget about the departures of Jeff Coffey (took Jason's place and was AMAZING for the short time he was there) and drummer Tris Imboden (with the band for 28 years). They left less than 48 hrs. apart, early January 2018. Not a coincidence, and not because they were 'tired of touring.' I haven't been to a concert since Neil Donell first joined. Not a good fit, imo. Such a disappointment.
It is kind of pity how they go out of their way to talk about their former band mates, not just Cetera. It's like they have a court order so if they accidentally mention any of their former bandmates names, they'll get sued, lol.
I have seen them over 100 times in 40 years, and without Jason, Bill, Tris, Walt, Keith, the current assemble with that karaoke 🎤 lead singer is a joke. I won't spend $1 to pay for Jimmy Pankow alimony or Robert Lamm ego. Turn out the lights!
Just saw both bands together and Chicago still has an issue with lead vocals esp compared to EW&F. Cetera was great on recordings but he was also a younger man. And in later concert footage in the 80s even HE had trouble with his own recorded high notes. Those high notes are not for men over 40, so many have tried and eventually been replaced. If Chicago could find a younger singer, great. Coffey was an excellent replacement for Jason, who IMHO was almost always pitchy in concert. Saw them on the ‘85 or ‘86 tour when he was young and probably nervous, but Jason’s high notes were all over the place. And it didn’t markedly improve over the years. Good bass playing or not. I don’t got to a show and pay to hear you miss high notes. Either change the key, have them sing an octave lower, or get the right person for the job. Otherwise, it’s like watching NASCAR. With only three original members still looking great but Lamm not singing as much(he’s 79), I think it’s time to head off into the sunset. Tastefully. NOT with a farewell tour. Please.
@johngastaldo6419 I agree with most. The average fan however, will not be listening for pitch perfect notes during a concert. Unless that singer is consistently blowing the same wrong notes. Yes, Jason had problems and Jeff did too... but as a performer, Jeff Coffey lit a fire for Chicago when they needed it. It's too bad they blew it with him (and with Tris at the same time). I gave the band one more chance with Neil Donnell, and that was it for me. I still remember "the way it was," having seen Terry Kath four times. I think the end is coming for Robert... Lee and James will follow. But if they can still fill stadiums as a cover band for the 80's fans... they probably will. They started as a faceless band, and it will probably end that way too.
And Fat Tony...he was so young, lol...
Strongest unit was Kath, Lamm, & Cetera.
I can respect your opinion since there are fans who worship TK (RIP) However based on their recent induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame I would say that Lamm, Pankow & Cetera were the strongest unit that kept the CHICAGO hit machine running for 20+ years.
Can you make this available to mobile users? It's the only current means I have to see this. Thank you!
I'm sorry, I can't :( When Google took over TH-cam, they made a lot of stupid changes. One of them was disabling the ability to reset the 'syndication'/availability on mobile devices. Unfortunately this applies to anything with copyrighted material, which this vid has. I am just as frustrated... can't access many of my own vids on my phone!!
Well I'm on my iPad and it's workin so..
Only took them nine months to fix it
Typical these days with copyright violation profit paranoia going around! When are artists' labels/managers going to learn not to try and profit off of yesterday's glories... these artists are only as good as their last performance! Silly to try and profit yet again off of things that aired publicly so many years ago-- how greedy!
Who's the ghost trumpet player n this video?
nocotton - That's Lee Thornburg subbing for Lee Loughnane in '92, when LL's wife was having a baby.
Jason brought great things to the table with Chi but his job as a replacement sucks! He's not a Cetera nor does he have the range. However when Jason was himself with the band singing his own songs that where he shined. Chicago 21, SOS, and XXX was where he showcased his singing, songwriting, and bass playing is where he shines. I like Jason for Jason and not "Cetera role".
iPod once again. Forgive the bad grammar.
Cetera clone. Well yeah lol. David Foster even admits that was his idea in order to keep Chicago going after Peter left. Probably not the best idea, but he did what he had to in order to sell records.
Love ya Walt, but "got a shot at a career like Jagger" talk about being out over your skis! But I get it, you got to sell the brand.
Jagger didn't have the best vocals, lol. He's not in my top 5, or even in my top 100, lol.
I wish they had replaced Cetera with two people: A singer and a bass player. Scheff, like his dad, is a great bass player. Unfortunately, he does not have the range to sing Cetera's stuff. Never did. That's not a jab at the guy, just a matter of physics and physiology. I always thought it was kind of unfair to expect that of him. He sounds great on the studio stuff, where he can record when his voice is in good shape, but on 95% of the live footage I've seen, he sounds like he's really hurting.
Anthony Delamont I agree with you to a certain extent. I think he originally had all the range he needed but years haven't been kind to his voice. Bill Champlin even more so. The current version of Chicago is nothing more than a cover band.
+Anthony Delamont Yes, and he seems to be straining more as he gets older, which is usually par for the course. What I don't understand though, is in the early days, he seemed to have a good hold where his bass work applied. As time goes on....UH-OH!NO! LOL, anyway, as he get's older, he seems to have to watch his fret work more, and not just on the licks. Also, he seems to have become more and more BORED when he sings and plays. I'm sure that these things do not help how others see him. As a matter of fact, it's one of those things that are uncomfortable to watch, and you can't ignore it since he's right up in front.
+Richard Stephens Yes regarding poor Bill. He could do all sorts of things with his voice, and still play keys like an octopus. The last 5 or so years before leaving, he couldn't sing a sentence. So unfortunate since he used to be able to do the vocals of 2 or 3 people at a time. So sorry. Kinda like modeling or sports, you sometimes only get a narrow window. Bet hey, Lamm's voice cracks, and he can't hit some of the highs. In just one sentence of Colour My World, his cracking and straining on those falsetto runs, ruining the complete, short song. Lower your range??
I don't understand alot of people. ..Have you ever seen Cetera live? ??He is so much better in the studio
+JennaP46 He had never been able to really sing that well in concert, I guess no one here had ever seen him.He actually did his best on 1969 Paris
He was just saying that to be nice!!!! and yeah it is a no brainer Chicago's best and most creative material was from 1969-1978. Although i do have a soft spot for most not all of the Hot Streets album. Jason Scheff seems like a great guy but he cant sing too well.
I will stay out of the debate concerning who is the best vocalist… But I will say that Jason is definitely a much better bassist than Cetera.
very true. it was the greatest mistake chicago made in their musical career when they hired mediocre jason. it doomed chicago.
joey zaza
Chicago didn't have that problem with lead vocals , seems like the fans take them right away while Journey can't get over Steve Perry.
Negative. Real Chicago fans never got over losing Peter. Jason is a great bass player and a super good guy, he’s no Cetera.
Could Scheff ever fill Peter's shoes?
Jason Scheff could NEVER fill the shoes of Peter Cetera with Chicago. Not a voice of the same caliber by a damn sight or sound. Nonetheless, I love the 1989 number: We Can Last Forever
Cetera was just an egotistical asshole,Jason and Chaplin brought a fresh new sound which was by far my favorite era of Chicago music
No one can replace Cetera, like no one could ever replace Kath. Both were one in a billion, but Jason did pretty well on his own. He came close to Cetera's vocals and he also composed. Jason and Bill kept Chicago's legacy going into the 90s. So I salute them for their efforts. 19 was a pleasant surprise, such a departure from the tenor ballads. Bill finally got a chance to shine and Jason had some gems in there as well. Runaround was my favorite Bill and Jason calloboration. What Kind of Man Would I Be, We Can Last Forever and You're Not Alone were my favorites.
@@Dboys122 Cetera was the talent, he single handedly brought the band out of the abyss along with Dave Foster.
@@lamarravery4094 Cetera is an egotistical ass who never had a real carr
@@Dboys122 Cetera is a legend. If it wasn't for him, Chicago would've died in the late 70s.
i find his Dad Jerry to be a better bass player and Peter's vocals to be much better range. Chicago should have disbanded after Peter left. Chicago without the late Terry , Peter and Danny they are like CCR without John and Tom Fogerty or Three Dog Night without lead vocalists Cory Wells (who died in October) and Chuck Negron now. Or The Beatles without John Lennon and George Harrison.
The Beach Boys just has Mike Love now, they're not the Beach Boys either.
I hear what you're saying, Chicago is an empty shell of its former self, but I didn't want to see that band die. They just add more members and keep it going maybe put out a new album once every ten yrs now.
He seduced me on stage...idk what it was dude
+SoJustCool you know what it was?? A musician playing the audience. Especially if a man's on stage, & you seem to be an interested female. AND if you are good looking...I've been invited backstage "after the show", over the mic. This is while I'm on my chair, dancing with my boyfriend. My brother & his friend were in the "cheap seats", and after the concert, my bf & I were talking about it. My bro nudges his friend and exclaims, "I told you it my sister they were talking about". I use to love to tease my poor mom when I was young and announce, "When I grow up, I'm going to be a nun, or a groupie". LOL Instead, I dated several musicians, because I knew music, loved music, and worked in the industry. I just didn't marry a musician. I'm too jealous. Not unreasonably, but realistically. Enjoy the feelings, 50 show up in no time at all
You were dreaming or on drugs,ha
Jason looked like a cat in heat! He couldn’t hold Peter Cetera jock!
Hiring Jason doomed Chicago forever. No one has taken them seriously ever since. A horrible, horrible decision.
Jason looks baked
Jennifer - The word "baked" in this context means "stoned." 😆😄😆
He was self medicated, lol.
Sorry guys but Chicago has made some plain awful choices after Terry passed. Followed the band my whole life and Chris Pinnic was the only person who fit their style, The rest were just painful to watch and listen to.
You honestly didn’t like Keith Howland?
@@chriscianciolo5823 He is a solid guitar player. He just seemed like he never hooked up in the groove. He played like he was thinking about what he was going have for dinner that night.
I've never been a Jason hater, but I've never felt he was a great replacement. 30 years is a long hitch with a band. Adios Jason.