Rolling Stone has a series called “Last Man Standing” where musicians from legendary bands share their stories. One of these stories features Lee Loughnane, the last original member of Chicago still touring.
In 1967, Loughnane, then just 20, started Chicago with his friends. They began as the Big Thing, then became the Chicago Transit Authority, and finally, simply Chicago. Over time, they earned 20 Top 10 singles and 23 gold records. Their journey included grappling with addiction, health issues, and losing bandmates, yet they have persevered for over six decades.
Now, Loughnane often finds himself in the spotlight. “I always liked being behind the scenes,” he shared. With his bandmates stepping back, he has embraced a more visible role and now enjoys connecting with fans.
Loughnane’s love for music began with his father, who played the trumpet in the Army Air Force during World War II. Growing up surrounded by music set a strong foundation for his career. He recalls, “I didn’t really get into the Beatles until much later. I was into big band jazz.”
As a DePaul University student, he teamed up with fellow musicians like Terry Kath, whose voice Loughnane described as “incredible.” Their initial focus was on covering popular songs, but soon, original tracks like “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” became their signature.
Creating their first album was a whirlwind. Loughnane explained, “We had just a week to record it.” They didn’t realize the significance of their work at the time. It was a new experience, and they quickly learned the intricacies of recording, feeling the pressure to get it right.
Looking back on their career, Loughnane reflects on missed opportunities, like not playing at Woodstock. Yet he views their success with gratitude. “It doesn’t matter anymore,” he said. The band’s dynamic is unique; there’s no singular frontman, allowing every member to shine during performances.
One striking aspect of Chicago’s journey has been the changes in their lineup. When Terry Kath tragically passed away, Loughnane felt the loss deeply. “He was incredibly talented, and it’s hard to think about what might have been,” he said. The band kept evolving, bringing in new members who contributed uniquely.
Amid the ups and downs, they’ve remained dedicated to their music. Loughnane emphasized, “We’ve outlasted many challenges simply by working hard and putting on great shows.”
Statistics highlight their resilience. In the past year alone, they performed over 90 shows. As Loughnane approaches his 80th birthday, he jokes about retirement but states, “Why would I? I love what I do.” Touring with fellow legends like Styx, he looks forward to sharing the stage and music with others who have rich legacies.
For Loughnane, the journey continues, driven by a passion for music and connection with fans. “We built a legacy together,” he concluded, as Chicago remains committed to creating unforgettable moments on stage.
As a reminder of their rich history, many fans are curious about a potential biopic. While Loughnane is open to the idea, he focuses more on the present—performing and making music. After all, it’s the legacy of Chicago that resonates, making it a pivotal part of music history.
For more insights into the music industry and the fascinating stories behind legendary bands, check out Rolling Stone.
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