One of my sisters played the flute, another the piano, while I play the drums so when my oldest sister got married in the 70s she made sure we did NOT do this song at her wedding 🙃
The story I read was that he woke Walter Parazaider up at 3am to ask him to play what he'd written. Walter's response was something like: This is going to make me famous!"
Interesting that Lex brought up this song's placement in the album, because it actually was carved out of a song cycle called "Ballet For a Girl In Buchannon." You should listen to the whole thing sometime.
This entire double album is outstanding. It showcases Chicago firing on all cylinders regarding composition, songwriting and musicianship. In 1970, they were poised to take on the world, and this album truly set them on their way. RIP Terry Kath...your band was never the same without you.
Terry Kath was the soul of Chicago . He could belt out the rockers and could sing the ballads with beauty, subtlety, and nuance. Memories of Love is another one with Terry's vocal on that album that is often overlooked
Nick, Lex, it was so cool seeing you react to this! You want ten minutes longer? You got it! As others have stated, “Color My World” is only one part of the amazing “Ballet For A Girl in Buchanan”, which was arranged mainly by trombonist Jimmy Pankow. The suite opens with one of their early radio hits, “Make Me Smile”, which showcases the band’s crazy good chips and more of the soulful vocal of Terry Kath. You should really listen to the entire “Ballet For A Girl in Buchanan”, as it’s an amazing piece of work and - what most people don’t know - it connects two of their big hits from 1970.
The flutist is Walt Parazaider and written by James Pankow. You're right it was done in the style of Bach. Sadly, Walt was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and has been struggling with this disease. His last public appearance was at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Colour My World has been played many times at weddings and school dances back in the day. When Chicago performs in concert, it still gets a grand applause. The lead varies between Lee Loughnane and other band members. Terry Kath was the one that made that song vocal.
This was the album they were supporting when I saw them on my sixteenth birthday at Varsity Stadium in Toronto. The song was the closing number at our high school Holloween dance that year.
"Color My World" is part of a suite on Chicago II. The song that follows this one, "To Be Free" is one of my favorite Chicago songs, even if it is only 1:15 long. A+
This song is best heard as part of the amazing song medley that makes up most of the album side it's on, bracketed by the full version of the song "Make Me Smile."
So many great Chicago songs- Saturday in the Park, Beginnings, Make Me Smile, I've Been Searching So Long, Dialogue, Questions 67 and 68, Feeling Stronger Every Day, Old Days, many more
We auditioned a keyboard player for a group I was managing ~ Sandee had 8 years of formal lessons but not the energy for the style the clubs wanted ~ She failed the audition but she won me ~she taught me to play this song~ 51 years 3 children ~ 6 grandchildren ~ 5 great grandchildren ~`this song takes me back to where it all began
@@debrabrabenec3731 That's great! It became a routine ~ Sandee taught it to pretty much everyone who would hang around during rehearsals ~ to this day, if I pass a piano I stop to play it ~ same with 'Beginnings' the recurring guitar part is a very basic progression on one string
Oh my, this song brings back sooo many sweet memories. I haven't heard it in a very long time and am moved to tears right now. Thank you so much Nick and Lex for posting and reacting to this beautiful, yet perfectly simple song🎶I love your comments!💞
This was a huge hit of a ballad when it was released and everyone wanted to play the piano section. It was as many mentioned, one of the most used songs in weddings. Many couples danced to this at weddings! Great Bass line, great flute solo and Terry Kath's voices is fantastic on this! Besides 25 or 6 to 4, Make me Smile off this album is also a fantastic banger!
Bought this album when it was new. Don`t know how many times i`ve listened to it. It`s a masterpiece. You have a lot of great songs from it to discover.
My husband and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary this year and yes it was our first dance at our wedding. It was a very danced to song at weddings and proms for about a decade and a half.
When they did it in concert following Terry's tragic death (certainly in the 80 and 90s) trumpet player and original member Lee Louchnane would sing the vocal on CMW during the Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan.. after finishing the vocal Lee would point up to the sky ... Paying tribute to Terry❤️💔
Pretty much the theme song to every homecoming dance or prom in the late 70s. RIP Terry Kath... Chicago IX might be the best Greatest Hits album ever. This is actually one part of a Suite called Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon.
Memories! I will proudly admit my obvious bias for this song. One...I grew up about 12 miles from Terry Kath. Two...this was the first song I slow danced to, and at the end, the first time I kissed a girl.
It is hard for you to understand unless you lived it, but in those days albums were made to be listened to in totality - or at least a full side at a time. You heard the singles on the radio. It was actually a bit of a chore to listen to one song on an album and you risked scratching it! So, yes, this was perfectly placed by Chicago. It also was a song you did slow dance to at weddings and parties. Short but sweet indeed! Such a timeless treasure
When I think of Terry Kath, I think of the song "Byblos" which he wrote and sang on Chicago VII. It's a very different song, not as soft as this but still very good. One of my favorite Chicago songs.
Hi guys, In the 1970's you could hardly go to any wedding where this song was not used for the bride and groom's first dance. The Great Terry Kath lives on forever! - Brooklyn Mike
NOT ONLY A UNDERRATED VOCALIST BUT CERTAINLY AN UNDERRATED GUTARIST SO WHAT A TRAVISTY TOO LOOSE A GREAT MUSCHIN, HENDRIX ONCE SAID HE PLAYS THE GUITAR BETTER THAN ME, WOW ! 🎤🎸🎤🎸
Terry Kath's vocal is amazing. Especially when you contrast it to his guitar mastery. I was 16 years old when this came out and it was mesmerizing to hear on the radio, back then. "Ballet for a girl from Buchanon" is an another song to listen to from this album also.
Music was so diverse back then. You just didn't know what to expect the first time you heard a new song or album. Would it be like "Make Me Smile" or "Colour My World"? Drop the needle and lets find out! There was nothing better then hearing the DJ say "Chicago released a new song today. It's called..." What a great time to be a kid!
No matter what song you choose by Chicago it is going to be good. Here are a few good ones Wishen' You Were here, Just You 'N' Me, I've Been Searching So Long, and Feelin Stronger Every Day. Thanks for all you both do for all of us everyday! ❤
I’ve seen them a few times and EVERY SINGLE TIME THEY DELIVER! Last time was two years ago in Charleston SC for my 60th birthday and was blown away AGAIN! They’re my favorite band since the 70’s when I was a kid.
Great pick. the song is part of a medley that would be a great epic reaction. My favorite part of that medley is make me smile. All the girls in my junior high loved this song. It was the go to slow number at all the mid 70’s adolescence dance parties. A big theme at weddings as well. Brings back awkward memories of youth in a good way. Fun reaction
I was 7 or 8 when I first heard this from my brothers collection of music in 1971. My brothers were 8, 10 and 11 years older so I heard a lot of music as a kid and a lot of it led to my music tastes. This was on one of two cassette tapes with some contemporary jazz and other softer rock on cold Sumday mornings while having coffee and reading the papers. At the time in the mid 90's I was often working six days a week and Sunday morning was the time I had to just relax with music like this.
When I was in middle school I tudored a student who wanted to learn how to play the flute. She played this flute solo in our spring concert and nailed it. I was so proud of her. Sigh...I missed my calling. I should have been a music teacher.
I dated a girl from Buckhannon, WV. The object of this Ballet is a girl who attended West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon. The trombonist, James Pankow, was in love with a woman from there. Side note: "Buckhannon" is spelled incorrectly "Buchannon" on the album.
This was my brothers wedding dance song. I asked why this one? He said “it’s the shortest love song I could find” I guess he hated dancing at the time 😂
You must do the whole Ballet...it's worth the ride! Also the "It Better End Soon" suite on the same album will take you on a journey as well. Great Terry vocals and guitar...the whole band on fire!
My all-time favorite Chicago tune is Dialogue, parts 1 and 2, from Chicago V. It's their last great protest song, and in part 2, Terry Kath shreds at least two guitars into oblivion...
Lex is right about how this fits into the songs around it. Pankow's entire 'Ballet for a Girl From Buchanon" which includes this piece should be heard in its entirety.
You need to listen to the these entire sides on vinyl because the CD or digital reproductions break between the sections of the suites. On vinyl they run together as intended.
This is true, however I have noticed that different apps treat the inter-track gap differently. UA-cam Music app (on Android) is PAINFUL in breaking up the tracks of the "Ballet"suite. An app called Pixel is not as bad but still noticeable to those of us raised on the vinyl copy from Columbia Records.
We got this album when it came out. I taught myself the piano part by ear, then taught it to many girls in my school choir! At home, I would play it, sing the verse, and then "doo-doo-doooo" the flute part. My mom loved that song when I played it! As others have said, it was the go-to slow dance song for about 15 years! I wish you two would react to the whole album!!! 🎵❤️🎵 Debbie
I’d recommend reacting to the entire Ballad for a Girl from Buchanan. It puts the Make Me Smile into context and you see how it all comes together. Just great stuff.
This song is played at so many weddings. A guy asked me once if I'd play at a wedding, and I told him the only appropriate song I knew was Another One Bites The Dust. But seriously, this song is just a part of the Make Me Smile Medley. I've played it so many times I can almost play it with one hand and my eyes closed. But to play the whole medley on keyboards is exhausting. I do love that last note on the piano. I've even used it on Anything For You by Mr. Big.
This was really cool. It's such a simple, beautiful song embedded in the "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon." I would really love for you both to react to that one. You are right that it's Bach inspired. It's the piece that put Chicago on my radar 54 years ago. Another song from that incredible second album is "Poem for The People."
My second favorite band (behind Steely Dan of course!). Had the pleasure years ago to do this song in our band and had my daughter play the flute part. Will always remember that. And now she’s singing in Citizen Dan as an adult.
If you haven't done it yet, go back to their first release (a double album also) Chicago Transit Authority and listen to the first song, simply titled "Introduction" - the music is amazing with all the changes intertwining what they are trying to accomplish as a band. I think it is their best piece.
this song was also written by the trombonist, James Pankow, and the singer is again Terry Kath. THE slow dance of choice at every HS prom and party in the 70's. Now, on the album, the ending of this song there will be a short intro from the horns, then a short drum solo, and then the music returns to "Make Me Smile". And remember, there is no auto tune in the 70's either. I strongly urge you to replay this, in private, and slow dance with it. just close your eyes, listen to the real music by real musicians applying their trade, and just enjoy what the lyrics mean to you.
Very nice reaction. Thank you. And it is sort of longer. It’s part of a suite, “Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan”. It is kind of a palate cleanser, as it is kind of an eye of the storm. Check it out sometimes.
When I was in high school, I would be asked to perform the flute part for Colour My World, as a guest musician. When my wife and I renewed our wedding vows in 2000, I sang the vocal and played the flute for Colour My World. Needless to say, there wasn't a dry eye in the place (well at least the women attending). Sadly, my wife passed away suddenly in 2012. I have never performed or played flute since then.
Since this was a staple at weddings in the '70s, the sheet music was readily available, but it only had the piano part, but didn't have the flute part. I, as a guitarist, once transcribed it onto staff paper for a flutist friend of mine from school. Now that we are in our mid 60s (and I haven't seen her in decades), I wonder if she still has it.🤔
Guitarist and vocalist Terry Kath was on, I believe the first 8 albums then unfortunately died from a gun accident. The band just wasn't the same after that. He was a huge part of their sound.
My brother and sister-in-law picked this for their first dance at their wedding reception. I still remember it. I was 9 years old at the time. He passed away 7 years ago. It always makes me think of him.
Hello, NicknLex, how are you? Great song, great reaction, I've known this song for many years, other great Chicago songs, " You're a hard habit to break, " Will you still love me" " if she would have been faithful" " Stay the night" this is only a few of their incredible songs, I picked these because I believe you two will really really Love these songs,
As I've stated before, I grew up in Chicago and the Chicagoland area in the late 60's and was a teen in the 70's. I was exposed to all kinds of music of just about every genre. Chicago was one of the bands I listened to and still do to this day. I know you guys get an awful lot of song requests and being exposed to a lot of music and I'd love to share so much with you guys. Having Dj'd in the 80's, 90's til now (not too much anymore) I know how difficult it is to go through all that music and pick one to react/listen to. I have asked several times previously if you both would react to Phoebe Snow (RIP) "Poetry Man". She had one of most distinct and beautiful voices I've ever had the honor of listening to. It was her biggest hit in 1974. She also was an awesome acoustic guitar player. Soooo....today I will request that tune and hope that you can fit it in your repertoire at some point. Thank you both from the bottom of my heart, I truly appreciate your love of music as much as I do. Muchas Gracias!!
So, back a long, long time ago, when dinosaurs ruled the Earth, I was playing sax in a band. One day, I showed up at rehearsal, and mentioned that I had just bought a flute. Everybody got excited and said, "Cool! You can play the solo on Colour My World at the gig this weekend!" I said, "No, I said I JUST bought a flute." Needless to say, I played flute on "Colour My World" that weekend
A timeless ballad that will be played hundreds of years from now. Such a simple and soulful song. I've always loved how short and sweet and easy to listen to this song is. Evidence that masterpieces are the simplest. Maybe the most famous prom song of the early 70's--until Stairway to Heaven pushed it aside :).
To answer Alexia's question about what's in front and in back of this song is smack in the middle of "Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon", a suite more a medley. kind of a prog-like thing. Technically The Ballet is one song and this song is a movement in it. Chicago always played The Ballet as a whole when they included it in a set. "Make Me Smile" "So Much to Say, So Much to Give" "Anxiety's Moment" "West Virginia Fantasies" "Colour My World" "To Be Free" "Now More Than Ever" "Colour My World" was a regular wedding song at the time and then some, and typically the first dance between the bride and groom. I know because we played it a lot at weddings. (The Carpenter's, We Only Just Begun was also pretty popular for that). In '75 I was a twelve-year old going on thirteen in a band full of twenty and thirty-year old's who gigged "mostly weddings", block parties and dances. I remember I asked JIm (sax/clarinet player) why Colour was spelled wrong, and he said it's the English spelling. Hey, I was a kid... I got in that band as a sub because my guitar teacher - a friend of theirs - asked me to fill in for their guitarist who broke his arm (he fell off a roof, at his day-job). I was his only student who played some contemporary jazz so I fit in. They kept me, and I was in that band 'til early '78? when I started jamming and playing more often in a band with people my own age. That ||: Fmaj7 Am/E Bb Ebmaj7 Abmaj7 Gbmaj7 D9 D7 Gmaj7 Eb9 C7 Fmaj7 Bb C7 :||... is now stuck in my head over and over again, hope you're happy now. ;-)
No bad moments on this album. a complete, fantastic double album. As mentioned, this song is part of the Suite, "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon" - a must listen (see the Tanglewood live version as well as the album version)
I remember it well. It was the first song I danced with a girl in the tenth grade. Many of us were on an outing at a roller skating rink and in those days a large multi mirrored ball hung near the ceiling at the center of the rink. When a "slow" song like color my world played they called out "couples only", lowered the lights and shone a couple of colored spots on the mirrored ball while it slowly turned. I have no idea who the girl was, it was just my first time to ask a girl to dance with me. I skated backwards on roller skates while she danced with me in a dance posture going forwards. Color my World was playing while the lights moved across the rink as we skated together in a dance. Later I had another dance with a different girl on a different outing on a riverboat, this time to another favorite Chicago song "Twenty Five or Six to Four" which was for dancing rock and roll and was definitely not meant for slow dancing. The early years of Chicago had a really amazing guitarist (Terry Kath) who sadly was no longer with them after only the first couple of albums.
Yep, this was the one slow dance and was usually the last song of the night. We got to hold our dates in our arms. We waited the whole darrn night for this.
Played at every high school dance & prom in the 1970s.
Truth! Last song of the night.
...and into the 80s.
Lights dim on the skating rink floor......😉
@@FrogUncle264 Or basketball court.
Not to mention weddings. Danced to it many times.
Many thousands of couples got married with this song playing back in the 1970’s!
My sister did in the 90's per my suggestion. It was perfect.
I graduated in 1977 and when this song came on at a high school dance, you were expected to slow dance with your girlfriend or date.
Not to mention how many millions of slow dances were danced to this one!
One of my sisters played the flute, another the piano, while I play the drums so when my oldest sister got married in the 70s she made sure we did NOT do this song at her wedding 🙃
Finally someone reacted to this masterpiece...!
I know ,right !..............everyone caught up in 25 or 6 to 4
Terry sung the solo on this song and it was a "pause moment" in the middle of "Ballet for a girl in Buchannon." James Pankow wrote it.
The story I read was that he woke Walter Parazaider up at 3am to ask him to play what he'd written. Walter's response was something like: This is going to make me famous!"
I have and love this whole album.
Interesting that Lex brought up this song's placement in the album, because it actually was carved out of a song cycle called "Ballet For a Girl In Buchannon." You should listen to the whole thing sometime.
This album Chicago II, really is meant to be played all the way thru. One of my favorite albums of ALL time.
@@mikefuller6732 So True!!
Same here...in my top twenty of ALL time. Yeah, it's that good.
It is my favorite album.
Mine too!
Same
My first slow dance with a girl was to this song. I can still remember how she felt in my arms and her intoxicating perfume. Thanks for the memories.
Awww! 💘
This entire double album is outstanding. It showcases Chicago firing on all cylinders regarding composition, songwriting and musicianship. In 1970, they were poised to take on the world, and this album truly set them on their way. RIP Terry Kath...your band was never the same without you.
Terry Kath was the soul of Chicago . He could belt out the rockers and could sing the ballads with beauty, subtlety, and nuance. Memories of Love is another one with Terry's vocal on that album that is often overlooked
So true. What a talent.
Sorry guys I can't get past the sour note he sings on this one.
This was one of the songs chosen for our wedding in 1976. Still going strong with the woman who colors my world with love. Fantastic album.
That’s wonderful, thank you for sharing and congratulations for everlasting love! 💖
The trumbone player wrote this and made the sax player pull out his flute. Afterwards he remarked "you're going to make me famous
I took dance lessons in University. We learned the waltz to this song. I was smitten with my partner. Shortest 3 minutes of my life. Short but sweet.
All the girls wanted to dance to this song when I was young; I was game and may have danced to it 100 times.
Need to play ALL OF SIDE 2 of this amazing album to hear this song in context...Another of the rare double albums worthy of the full ride...
Nick, Lex, it was so cool seeing you react to this! You want ten minutes longer? You got it! As others have stated, “Color My World” is only one part of the amazing “Ballet For A Girl in Buchanan”, which was arranged mainly by trombonist Jimmy Pankow. The suite opens with one of their early radio hits, “Make Me Smile”, which showcases the band’s crazy good chips and more of the soulful vocal of Terry Kath. You should really listen to the entire “Ballet For A Girl in Buchanan”, as it’s an amazing piece of work and - what most people don’t know - it connects two of their big hits from 1970.
Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon
Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon.
Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon.
Yes!
Yes!!
Yes!!!
Agree
Agree
Agree
Please
Please
Please
Yup!
Yup!
Yup!
'In The Country' from Chicago II side one last track. Great deep track!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Heavy
The flutist is Walt Parazaider and written by James Pankow. You're right it was done in the style of Bach. Sadly, Walt was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and has been struggling with this disease. His last public appearance was at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Colour My World has been played many times at weddings and school dances back in the day. When Chicago performs in concert, it still gets a grand applause. The lead varies between Lee Loughnane and other band members. Terry Kath was the one that made that song vocal.
Everyone fell in love to this song in the early 1970s. It was such a sweet break from all the heavy rock we were living with at that time.
This was the album they were supporting when I saw them on my sixteenth birthday at Varsity Stadium in Toronto.
The song was the closing number at our high school Holloween dance that year.
These guys are really something. They ruled the radio back in the day! Thanks for sharing this one.
"Color My World" is part of a suite on Chicago II. The song that follows this one, "To Be Free" is one of my favorite Chicago songs, even if it is only 1:15 long. A+
This song is best heard as part of the amazing song medley that makes up most of the album side it's on, bracketed by the full version of the song "Make Me Smile."
So many great Chicago songs- Saturday in the Park, Beginnings, Make Me Smile, I've Been Searching So Long, Dialogue, Questions 67 and 68, Feeling Stronger Every Day, Old Days, many more
We auditioned a keyboard player for a group I was managing ~ Sandee had 8 years of formal lessons but not the energy for the style the clubs wanted ~ She failed the audition but she won me ~she taught me to play this song~ 51 years 3 children ~ 6 grandchildren ~ 5 great grandchildren ~`this song takes me back to where it all began
I taught myself this song on piano and then taught it to many girls in the glee club!
@@debrabrabenec3731 That's great! It became a routine ~ Sandee taught it to
pretty much everyone who would hang around during rehearsals ~ to this day, if I pass a piano I stop to play it ~ same with 'Beginnings' the recurring guitar part is a very basic progression on one string
"Fancy Colours" from this album blew my mind when I first heard it.
Yes! Especially the wild repeated chord at the end!
Oh my, this song brings back sooo many sweet memories. I haven't heard it in a very long time and am moved to tears right now. Thank you so much Nick and Lex for posting and reacting to this beautiful, yet perfectly simple song🎶I love your comments!💞
This was a huge hit of a ballad when it was released and everyone wanted to play the piano section. It was as many mentioned, one of the most used songs in weddings. Many couples danced to this at weddings! Great Bass line, great flute solo and Terry Kath's voices is fantastic on this! Besides 25 or 6 to 4, Make me Smile off this album is also a fantastic banger!
Bought this album when it was new. Don`t know how many times i`ve listened to it. It`s a masterpiece. You have a lot of great songs from it to discover.
We got it right away also! Still a favorite!
My husband and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary this year and yes it was our first dance at our wedding. It was a very danced to song at weddings and proms for about a decade and a half.
When they did it in concert following Terry's tragic death (certainly in the 80 and 90s) trumpet player and original member Lee Louchnane would sing the vocal on CMW during the Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan.. after finishing the vocal Lee would point up to the sky ... Paying tribute to Terry❤️💔
The song was written by the trombone player of Chicago, James Pankow.
Pretty much the theme song to every homecoming dance or prom in the late 70s. RIP Terry Kath... Chicago IX might be the best Greatest Hits album ever. This is actually one part of a Suite called Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon.
Memories! I will proudly admit my obvious bias for this song. One...I grew up about 12 miles from Terry Kath. Two...this was the first song I slow danced to, and at the end, the first time I kissed a girl.
It is hard for you to understand unless you lived it, but in those days albums were made to be listened to in totality - or at least a full side at a time. You heard the singles on the radio. It was actually a bit of a chore to listen to one song on an album and you risked scratching it! So, yes, this was perfectly placed by Chicago. It also was a song you did slow dance to at weddings and parties. Short but sweet indeed! Such a timeless treasure
When I think of Terry Kath, I think of the song "Byblos" which he wrote and sang on Chicago VII. It's a very different song, not as soft as this but still very good. One of my favorite Chicago songs.
That one has a permanant spot on my playlist!
I used to play this song on the piano in the girls' dorm to impress them.
They didn't know this was the only song I knew on the piano.
Hi guys, In the 1970's you could hardly go to any wedding where this song was not used for the bride and groom's first dance. The Great Terry Kath lives on forever! - Brooklyn Mike
NOT ONLY A UNDERRATED VOCALIST BUT CERTAINLY AN UNDERRATED GUTARIST SO WHAT A TRAVISTY TOO LOOSE A GREAT MUSCHIN, HENDRIX ONCE SAID HE PLAYS THE GUITAR BETTER THAN ME, WOW ! 🎤🎸🎤🎸
Hendrix was right!!
ABSOLUTELY RIGHT !
Played at all the school dances.... 🙂
Part of the 'Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon' suite.
Chicago and Blood Sweat and Tears. Beautiful music in a great time.
Terry was a fantastic, generally underrated guitar player but, personally, he's my favorite male voice in all of pop and/or rock.
70’s - keynote of every prom, quinceneira or wedding. To quote Joe Jackson- play us a slow song.
Terry Kath's vocal is amazing. Especially when you contrast it to his guitar mastery. I was 16 years old when this came out and it was mesmerizing to hear on the radio, back then. "Ballet for a girl from Buchanon" is an another song to listen to from this album also.
BFAGIB is actually a medley of over half a dozen songs - including Color My World, Make Me Smile, and more.
Music was so diverse back then. You just didn't know what to expect the first time you heard a new song or album. Would it be like "Make Me Smile" or "Colour My World"? Drop the needle and lets find out! There was nothing better then hearing the DJ say "Chicago released a new song today. It's called..." What a great time to be a kid!
No matter what song you choose by Chicago it is going to be good. Here are a few good ones Wishen' You Were here, Just You 'N' Me, I've Been Searching So Long, and Feelin Stronger Every Day. Thanks for all you both do for all of us everyday! ❤
I’ve seen them a few times and EVERY SINGLE TIME THEY DELIVER! Last time was two years ago in Charleston SC for my 60th birthday and was blown away AGAIN! They’re my favorite band since the 70’s when I was a kid.
Great pick. the song is part of a medley that would be a great epic reaction. My favorite part of that medley is make me smile. All the girls in my junior high loved this song. It was the go to slow number at all the mid 70’s adolescence dance parties. A big theme at weddings as well. Brings back awkward memories of youth in a good way. Fun reaction
That one made me emotional!!😂 good pick. Thank you for sharing with us!
“In the Country” by Chicago on this same album is a banger you’ll love.
Only 20% And you're at 108K? That is crazy! Come on Peeps!!!!
I was 7 or 8 when I first heard this from my brothers collection of music in 1971. My brothers were 8, 10 and 11 years older so I heard a lot of music as a kid and a lot of it led to my music tastes.
This was on one of two cassette tapes with some contemporary jazz and other softer rock on cold Sumday mornings while having coffee and reading the papers.
At the time in the mid 90's I was often working six days a week and Sunday morning was the time I had to just relax with music like this.
So many Proms!
One of the best love songs you'll ever hear. Gets me every time.
I always thought that this song was way too short because it is so beautiful, yet somehow no more needed done.
When I was in middle school I tudored a student who wanted to learn how to play the flute. She played this flute solo in our spring concert and nailed it. I was so proud of her. Sigh...I missed my calling. I should have been a music teacher.
"I wish this was just 10 minutes longer!" 😅 My sentiments exactly. However I think it's so perfect that it may be better left as is. Great reaction!
I dated a girl from Buckhannon, WV. The object of this Ballet is a girl who attended West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon. The trombonist, James Pankow, was in love with a woman from there. Side note: "Buckhannon" is spelled incorrectly "Buchannon" on the album.
This was my brothers wedding dance song. I asked why this one? He said “it’s the shortest love song I could find”
I guess he hated dancing at the time 😂
You must do the whole Ballet...it's worth the ride! Also the "It Better End Soon" suite on the same album will take you on a journey as well. Great Terry vocals and guitar...the whole band on fire!
My all-time favorite Chicago tune is Dialogue, parts 1 and 2, from Chicago V. It's their last great protest song, and in part 2, Terry Kath shreds at least two guitars into oblivion...
Y'all are SO much better as a couple !!!
Lex is right about how this fits into the songs around it. Pankow's entire 'Ballet for a Girl From Buchanon" which includes this piece should be heard in its entirety.
Good reaction guys, both of you were so 🫠🫠🫠🫠
❤❤❤❤☮️☮️☮️☮️🎸🎸
You need to listen to the these entire sides on vinyl because the CD or digital reproductions break between the sections of the suites. On vinyl they run together as intended.
This is true, however I have noticed that different apps treat the inter-track gap differently. UA-cam Music app (on Android) is PAINFUL in breaking up the tracks of the "Ballet"suite. An app called Pixel is not as bad but still noticeable to those of us raised on the vinyl copy from Columbia Records.
I picked this as our first dance song at our wedding in 2001. It had been a favorite of mine since the 70's.
We got this album when it came out. I taught myself the piano part by ear, then taught it to many girls in my school choir! At home, I would play it, sing the verse, and then "doo-doo-doooo" the flute part. My mom loved that song when I played it!
As others have said, it was the go-to slow dance song for about 15 years! I wish you two would react to the whole album!!!
🎵❤️🎵 Debbie
I’d recommend reacting to the entire Ballad for a Girl from Buchanan. It puts the Make Me Smile into context and you see how it all comes together. Just great stuff.
'Poem 58' is a funky jam. ' Fancy Colours' is a fun track.
This was in heavy rotation at our TeenTown. 6-7-8th grade kids scared to death of slow dancing. 3 minutes of heaven!
This song is played at so many weddings. A guy asked me once if I'd play at a wedding, and I told him the only appropriate song I knew was Another One Bites The Dust.
But seriously, this song is just a part of the Make Me Smile Medley. I've played it so many times I can almost play it with one hand and my eyes closed. But to play the whole medley on keyboards is exhausting. I do love that last note on the piano. I've even used it on Anything For You by Mr. Big.
Terry Kath, not just a guitar hero or a voice belter. In 1974 this song was all over WXLO 99X in NYC.
Wife and I had this as our wedding 1st dance song (1979). Very popular wedding song at the time.
This was really cool. It's such a simple, beautiful song embedded in the "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon." I would really love for you both to react to that one. You are right that it's Bach inspired. It's the piece that put Chicago on my radar 54 years ago. Another song from that incredible second album is "Poem for The People."
Love Terry’s voice ❤
My second favorite band (behind Steely Dan of course!). Had the pleasure years ago to do this song in our band and had my daughter play the flute part. Will always remember that. And now she’s singing in Citizen Dan as an adult.
Beautiful song ❤
My childhood memories of singing this to my first love
If you haven't done it yet, go back to their first release (a double album also) Chicago Transit Authority and listen to the first song, simply titled "Introduction" - the music is amazing with all the changes intertwining what they are trying to accomplish as a band. I think it is their best piece.
We’ve done that one!! Amazing!! :)
One of many of my favorites of early chicago days ( before Terry died) oh man- this song chokes me up. Just so beautiful. And Terrys vocals❤
WAKE UP SUNSHINE IS A MUST,TERRY KATH HAD SUCH A SOULFUL VOICE
That song is by Robert Lamm, and he sings lead on it.
this song was also written by the trombonist, James Pankow, and the singer is again Terry Kath. THE slow dance of choice at every HS prom and party in the 70's. Now, on the album, the ending of this song there will be a short intro from the horns, then a short drum solo, and then the music returns to "Make Me Smile". And remember, there is no auto tune in the 70's either. I strongly urge you to replay this, in private, and slow dance with it. just close your eyes, listen to the real music by real musicians applying their trade, and just enjoy what the lyrics mean to you.
The 1970s were a golden cornucopia of musical goodness 😊
Very nice reaction. Thank you. And it is sort of longer. It’s part of a suite, “Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan”. It is kind of a palate cleanser, as it is kind of an eye of the storm. Check it out sometimes.
When I was in high school, I would be asked to perform the flute part for Colour My World, as a guest musician. When my wife and I renewed our wedding vows in 2000, I sang the vocal and played the flute for Colour My World. Needless to say, there wasn't a dry eye in the place (well at least the women attending). Sadly, my wife passed away suddenly in 2012. I have never performed or played flute since then.
Since this was a staple at weddings in the '70s, the sheet music was readily available, but it only had the piano part, but didn't have the flute part. I, as a guitarist, once transcribed it onto staff paper for a flutist friend of mine from school. Now that we are in our mid 60s (and I haven't seen her in decades), I wonder if she still has it.🤔
Nick- I'm pretty sure you've heard this- as part of the famous "Ballet for a Girl..." medley??
Chicago II is a classic in musicianship
Guitarist and vocalist Terry Kath was on, I believe the first 8 albums then unfortunately died from a gun accident. The band just wasn't the same after that. He was a huge part of their sound.
The first 9 studio albums, CTA through XI.
Slow dancing to this was heavenly.
My brother and sister-in-law picked this for their first dance at their wedding reception. I still remember it. I was 9 years old at the time. He passed away 7 years ago. It always makes me think of him.
This song inspired me to play some piano as a kid. My little sister learned the flute part later. Simply XlnT. ThX guys 😎👍
I seen them in Alabama in 1977, great concert
Hello, NicknLex, how are you? Great song, great reaction, I've known this song for many years, other great Chicago songs, " You're a hard habit to break, " Will you still love me" " if she would have been faithful" " Stay the night" this is only a few of their incredible songs, I picked these because I believe you two will really really Love these songs,
As I've stated before, I grew up in Chicago and the Chicagoland area in the late 60's and was a teen in the 70's. I was exposed to all kinds of music of just about every genre. Chicago was one of the bands I listened to and still do to this day. I know you guys get an awful lot of song requests and being exposed to a lot of music and I'd love to share so much with you guys. Having Dj'd in the 80's, 90's til now (not too much anymore) I know how difficult it is to go through all that music and pick one to react/listen to. I have asked several times previously if you both would react to Phoebe Snow (RIP) "Poetry Man". She had one of most distinct and beautiful voices I've ever had the honor of listening to. It was her biggest hit in 1974. She also was an awesome acoustic guitar player. Soooo....today I will request that tune and hope that you can fit it in your repertoire at some point. Thank you both from the bottom of my heart, I truly appreciate your love of music as much as I do. Muchas Gracias!!
Request a song (buy a reaction) through their Buy Me A Coffee in the description.
This is one of those songs you wish was longer! But those three minutes (one for each segment) are great aren’t they!
So, back a long, long time ago, when dinosaurs ruled the Earth, I was playing sax in a band. One day, I showed up at rehearsal, and mentioned that I had just bought a flute. Everybody got excited and said, "Cool! You can play the solo on Colour My World at the gig this weekend!" I said, "No, I said I JUST bought a flute." Needless to say, I played flute on "Colour My World" that weekend
A timeless ballad that will be played hundreds of years from now. Such a simple and soulful song. I've always loved how short and sweet and easy to listen to this song is. Evidence that masterpieces are the simplest. Maybe the most famous prom song of the early 70's--until Stairway to Heaven pushed it aside :).
To answer Alexia's question about what's in front and in back of this song is smack in the middle of "Ballet For A Girl In Buchannon", a suite more a medley. kind of a prog-like thing. Technically The Ballet is one song and this song is a movement in it. Chicago always played The Ballet as a whole when they included it in a set.
"Make Me Smile"
"So Much to Say, So Much to Give"
"Anxiety's Moment"
"West Virginia Fantasies"
"Colour My World"
"To Be Free"
"Now More Than Ever"
"Colour My World" was a regular wedding song at the time and then some, and typically the first dance between the bride and groom. I know because we played it a lot at weddings. (The Carpenter's, We Only Just Begun was also pretty popular for that).
In '75 I was a twelve-year old going on thirteen in a band full of twenty and thirty-year old's who gigged "mostly weddings", block parties and dances. I remember I asked JIm (sax/clarinet player) why Colour was spelled wrong, and he said it's the English spelling. Hey, I was a kid...
I got in that band as a sub because my guitar teacher - a friend of theirs - asked me to fill in for their guitarist who broke his arm (he fell off a roof, at his day-job). I was his only student who played some contemporary jazz so I fit in. They kept me, and I was in that band 'til early '78? when I started jamming and playing more often in a band with people my own age.
That ||: Fmaj7 Am/E Bb Ebmaj7 Abmaj7 Gbmaj7 D9 D7 Gmaj7 Eb9 C7 Fmaj7 Bb C7 :||... is now stuck in my head over and over again, hope you're happy now. ;-)
No bad moments on this album. a complete, fantastic double album. As mentioned, this song is part of the Suite, "Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon" - a must listen (see the Tanglewood live version as well as the album version)
@@jamesgabbert9375 Fancy Colors is another really cool track from Chicago 2.
I remember it well. It was the first song I danced with a girl in the tenth grade. Many of us were on an outing at a roller skating rink and in those days a large multi mirrored ball hung near the ceiling at the center of the rink. When a "slow" song like color my world played they called out "couples only", lowered the lights and shone a couple of colored spots on the mirrored ball while it slowly turned. I have no idea who the girl was, it was just my first time to ask a girl to dance with me. I skated backwards on roller skates while she danced with me in a dance posture going forwards. Color my World was playing while the lights moved across the rink as we skated together in a dance. Later I had another dance with a different girl on a different outing on a riverboat, this time to another favorite Chicago song "Twenty Five or Six to Four" which was for dancing rock and roll and was definitely not meant for slow dancing.
The early years of Chicago had a really amazing guitarist (Terry Kath) who sadly was no longer with them after only the first couple of albums.
He was on the first 9 studio albums, actually, encompassing CTA through Chicago XI.
Yep, this was the one slow dance and was usually the last song of the night. We got to hold our dates in our arms. We waited the whole darrn night for this.