I've quite literally been watching it several times a month for the past year or so It's one of the best examples of a tribute cover band that I've ever seen But mainly the reason I watch it is because that female Russian singer is so goddamn hot it makes my eyes cross
Imagine. Singing in a foreign language, that you do not speak. Their phrasing, inflection is spot on. And the Guitarist. Killer. They all are Ace musicians. They don't coveer Chicago, they become 'Chicagovich', as it's written on signs in Moscow. A Joy to hear soemthing from Russia besides Putin, and Ukraine. These guys ain't gettin' rich. Do it for the love of playing. .I stumbled onto something so incredible
The lead singer is from Ukraine ......he's the only one not from Russia. I agree though ....... I grew up with Chicago and I can't go more than a few days without watching/listening to this ensemble. To realize they don't speak English and the leader/bassist had to dissect each instrument note by note to compose is beyond genius to me.
Spectacular. Here's a group of 'Russians' who colluded to shut everyone else out of the running for the title of "Best Tribute Band"... Appreciation and gratitude from the United States!
Thumbs down from me on this performance. Great technical skill, but the bell is the key to the outro on this tune and for some reason the guy is allergic to it.
I''m a 62 year old, who's been a Chicago fan from their beginning in 1970. My older Step-Sister gave me their first album, when they were still "Chicago Transit Authority", and I've loved them since. You guys... you guys...I'm speechless. If I wasn't watching the video, I'd swear I was listening to Chicago themselves. As a Tribute/ Cover band, that's as good as it gets. All I can say, is if you were to Come to my area, (after Covid-19 passes of course...), I'd gladly pay to see you perform live. Thank you for making a dreary morning bright.
Same here 47 years old. "X" and what came before was a huge part of my childhood. Terry Kaths voice was a soothing experience in a chaotic world for a small mind.
This band has become my drug of choice....in this upside down world we now live in, they not only right my ship but they elevate me to new highs of hope! God bless them all!
"No one has ever been able to duplicate Chicago before this." Really, have you listened to every single Chicago cover band in the world, or are you just talking out of your @ss?
First off, this is mixed to absolute perfection. What a band! Good Lord, this is perfect in every way. Every note. They play with joy and they clearly respect the music they are playing, you can hear it and see it on every member of the band. Well done!!
after having been a musician and singer for well over 40 years I can honestly say this was absolute perfection, and could not have possibly been done any better.
There’s nothing that ever said he intended to do it. Fact is, while it’s possible he was drunk or stoned at the time, surely in his mind he thought the chamber was empty. I doubt at all it was intentional. Ergo he is in heaven.
One of my favorite parts of watching and rewatching these videos is seeing how much sheer JOY these guys inspire in thousands upon thousands of commenters. And it’s because they themselves are playing these great songs out of joy. Not the music biz; not band politics: pure joy. Thank you thank you thank you!!
This song is so good it is hard to decide who to compliment more... horns, drums, keyboard, vocals, guitar, bass, background vocals, wow. This is a perfect song.
Hey Raider helmet guy.... I too am a Raider fan (since the 60's) and remember this music from my high school days, although, in the East Bay we actually favored Tower of Power! Anyway, I look forward to seeing L&F's in Lake Tahoe on November 8th - they're awesome!! Rock on!
Three years ago, I fell in love with a Russian woman. I began to learn more about the culture, people and the country that I was raised and trained to hate or kill if needed. I served in the USAF in Berlin during the cold war. But these people are genuine, loving, family oriented and loyal. I found this band two weeks ago and needless to say, growing up in the 70's, EWF & Chicago were at the top of the charts. THANKS for this beautiful music and my Elena :)
The algorithm sent me here - i haven't watched this video in a few years. I'm enjoying it but I also feel sad. I pray all of the talented musicians and singers here are safe and well.
Throw bottles at me through the interwebs if you must, but I think this version is way better than Chicago's. Plus. they make it look so easy and joyful!
@@vg5157 Absolutely true and a very valid point. I think these guys may sound better to me b/c they aren't taking themselves too seriously and are just having a good time.
Knowing that nobody in the world can be a ringer for Pete, In my humble opinion, these Chicago covers are better than any vocal performances that Chicago has put out since Pete left.
I am a 65 year old American drummer. I am retired now, but I remember listening to this song when it first came out. To be honest, if I heard you guys sing this on the radio, I would assume it was Chicago playing it and not you guys. I am also assuming by your names that you are Russian. I salute you guys. I don’t think there are even many American bands that could pull that off! As a drummer, I believe Igor’s rendition of this may possibly be better than the original, and in the original version done by Chicago, they had a much bigger drum kit. Sounded like Igor didn’t need anything else at all! 😉 That is a VERY hard song to drum to!
Mr. Phillips, sir what you felt in your heart of hearts while listening to this incredible group of true musicians. Proof that music, & played like this is universal. I don't if it's my American DNA, or the Weed & Whiskey kicking in as I listen to them just like U did Sir Phillips. Well written sir, indeed. BTY: It's a combination of my American DNA, & this Weed that I can't STOP Smoking! Try it like that.
Leonid and Friends.... FOREVER! I can't even begin to get enough of the talent in this collection of the some of the world's best musicians! Salute!!! Igor!!
you folks ae not new to me, spent hours watching your video's...My wife had liver cancer and she passed away on Nov.25, 2018. The hardest pain and loss i have ever felt; tonight is the FIRST time I have felt happiness .......thank you for posting your video's
It’s incredible that this, let’s call it a tribute band, makes music so faithful to the original that it is almost indistinguishable. Great, great work!
At this point I'm wondering, How did you beautiful people with so much talent find each other to create what you have done, I'm truly in awe. You people are so good, I have no words
Watch their cover of 25 or 6 to 4. It'll blow your mind. I can't get over how good these guys are, I mean, it's perfect which when you consider that they're Russian makes it even more incredible.
Playing the notes letter-perfect is one thing - and this band does that well, indeed. But, they capture the high spirit, the great joy of the original performance, too, which is something the current iteration of Chicago has a hard time doing. A real delight to listen to and enjoy.
Holy shit... Just HOLY SHIT!!!! 15 yr metal vocalist, raised with old school rock. Gma's gone, my old man is still alive... This is my favorite cover of this song, hands down. You all nailed it!!! I can't express enough, the nostalgia & joy your cover brought. Thank you so much!!!
Could there be any better place to see this fantastic band than Hawaii ?? Got to see Chicago at the Waikiki Shell in September. And now... Leonid & Friends 11/29/24 Blue Note Waikiki. Two sold out shows ! Going to the late show. I'm so lucky. Going surfing before the show too. Hopefully no big swells, I'm old.... Peace, Love and much Aloha from Waikiki 🤙
Be there, done that, have the scars mentality and physically to show for it. This is one of the things that does help. If there is any consolation to what we deal with when these things happen it must be how it makes one realize just precious the seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks and years actually are. I now spend very little time with TV, or doing things others think I should do. I live life to a much fuller degree than before. I often wonder what both my dad James and my best buddy Gary would do, or how would he handle this. Yes, I am feeling stronger everyday, and I am so thankful for Chicago's song regardless of who plays it. I send Prayers, positive energies, and good will to all those going through something like this. Love all of you.
Just saw them in Sacramento. Mind blown. I love to see their tours expanding and for them to get all of the recognition they deserve. Damn. Every one of them is an incredible musician.
It was very profound to me as I was going through different covers and drum covers of this song to see Russians and Ukrainians singing together. Let's hope we get back there and my wish for all of you is to end this madness so we can all sing again. Thank you for the excellent cover.
I recall reading they were from four countries at this time. The third was Belarus, and I don't remember the 4th. But then Serge left to fight for Ukraine (man I hope he's ok), so it was back to three countries. I think the parting was friendly. The situation while this lineup was together was a political mess, and a band that stood above it. Serge had to follow his conscience. I think everyone understood that. I don't know where these guys are now, but when the war broke out, they were in the middle of a US tour, and they continued that tour.
It's the Dirty Politicians that get our young men fighting each other for THEIR RICHES AND POWER! As Eisenhauer said years ago; "Beware of the Military Industrial Complex!" CHEERS!
Leonid, I have been following your group of (amazing) musicians for years now. By far, the best audio and video production quality of anyone on UA-cam. I have noticed quite a new changes in musicians and vocalists appearing in your videos. Have you lost anyone who appeared in your videos due to the ongoing Ukrainian conflict? I pray all your comrades have survived this horrible war. God bless all of you!
I got to see them live in Annapolis Maryland in 2020 and my wife bought a meet and greet package so we got to chat with each one of them. They are as nice as they are exceptionally talented. I feel so fortunate that we got to see them with both Sergis in the band.
The musical talent, the sound engineering, and the dedication to "get it right" leave me speechless. Quickly run out of adjectives of praise for these ladies and gentlemen. May your abilities take you all to new heights you never dreamed of!
I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Leonid & Friends “Live” twice. They put on an amazing performance and are spot-on on every song. I never got to see Chicago live but after seeing Leonid & Friends, I feel like I have. They are awesome!
Ksenia is her given name and Ksenona is her stage name. She's from Leonid's home town called Chita which is in Siberia east of Lake Baikal near the Mongolian border. They have both come to Moscow and established world class careers. When they make their North American tour next year they will likely make musical history from Russia with love.
I've watched several of these videos. These cats are pretty freaking incredible. I have seen several bands cover music, but none quite like this. Bravo.
This cover is how I realized there were three Rolling Stones quotes in the song :). I had never noticed that in the original recording since there it's so down in the mix.
I saw them in Los Angeles on 1-12. Even got a photo with Ksenya - I was not leaving without that. Their US tour is over but I'm sure they'll be back. These guys are better than you can imagine and I've seen Chicago twice. They travel with just three guys on brass - the younger guys - and it's as tight as Chicago or what's in these videos. I told Leonid to add a couple of Bill Champlin songs - I don't think he understood me, but God love him because he really nails it on these songs. Vocals, guitars, keyboards, drums everything. Even added a nice little brass arrangement to Color My World. You have to see these guys. Chicago charges $100 for meet and greet photos but these guys did it for free. Excellent.
If I were an actual member of Chicago I’m not sure how I’d react to hearing this group. On the one hand I’d be incredibly impressed and while I wouldn’t necessarily feel threatened by them my ego might have a tough time praising them for how good they are. I drop dead every time I hear them.
Well, Danny Seraphine actually caught on to Leonid and Friends, and let his ex-band know about them. They proceeded to link a few of these videos to their official website which is really how LAF started making inroads to America then getting the demand for a USA tour. In fact, Danny actually sat in for Igor on drums for a couple tracks including Anybody Know What Time It Is on one of the shows. Not sure what the rest of the band that tours as Chicago thinks of these cats, but Danny himself is of 100% approval. He sat in ice cold and nailed it. You could tell the rest of the band was beside themselves, smiling at him like a 12 year old school girl while THE Danny Seraphine is playing drums in THEIR cover band. Don't forget, Leonid is focused on the first 5 albums, the albums that made Chicago the icons they are. For them, Danny might as well be Paul McCartney. On a side note, if there was ever a reason for Chicago to let bygones be bygones and bring Danny back in to the band HE started, THAT'S it.
Damn! Just, Damn! Got a Russian Neil Peart on drums, kid on guitar got serious chops, great harmonies, horns are tight as hell, and just extraordinary musicianship from everyone. After seeing only 5 or 6 songs I bought both albums. Incredible!
I thank God every day the Russian Red Army did what it did during World War II. Because without those efforts, without that sacrifice, my father probably would not have survived in the POW Camp he was held at for three years in today's Poland. His treatment never would have improved. He would not have made it home to America. I would not have been born 20-years later. And I certainly would not be sitting here today enjoying this marvelous, wonderful tribute band to Chicago.
Going through a rough 2024 and this song is very inspirational!
Me too, but its getting better, hope you are too
M lanvaahaq😅. V big n🎉 p
It
Things will get better
One of the best covers of any song I've heard. And the drummer is awesome.
He is a drumming machine.!!!
The drummer is SO good. On every single song they play, he stands out. It's like having Hal Blaine in the studio.
@@bradleyjjohnson
My Pal "HAL" ?
He was a good drummer too. He could definitely DIG IT 😇🐕🦺🥰
... paws of Fury 😂
The drummer is rocking! Reminds me of drummer jack bruno, played with Joe Cocker, tina turner and others.
It’s 2024 and I assume nobody will see this comment, but I’m going to say I really love this band!
Hey I saw your comment today, and I love this band too! Nobody can cover a Chicago tune quite like Leonid & Friends
I see it. Me too for a couple of years
I saw them in concert.They were great.
Oh oh yeah
I saw it too... and LOVE this band. Former trumpet player here.
I love these people for making me happy.
Same here😂I listen to them every day and can’t wait to attend another of their awesome concerts 🔥🔥🔥👯♀️👯♀️🔥🌹🌹🌹💃🏽🕺🏽
Me too, catch them here in California ‼️
Their enthusiasm and energy are compelling!
Yep. Makes me smile.
I think I've watched this song 40 times in two weeks
I've quite literally been watching it several times a month for the past year or so
It's one of the best examples of a tribute cover band that I've ever seen
But mainly the reason I watch it is because that female Russian singer is so goddamn hot it makes my eyes cross
It’s 2023 and I assume nobody will see this comment, but I’m going to say I really love this band!
I saw it, and I agree!
I come back to this video quite often. Igor just kills it on drums and I really love this band too!
They are great. Love these guys!
I saw it n agree
The drums... uf so good
Imagine. Singing in a foreign language, that you do not speak. Their phrasing, inflection is spot on. And the Guitarist. Killer. They all are Ace musicians. They don't coveer Chicago, they become 'Chicagovich', as it's written on signs in Moscow. A Joy to hear soemthing from Russia besides Putin, and Ukraine. These guys ain't gettin' rich. Do it for the love of playing.
.I stumbled onto something so incredible
The lead singer is from Ukraine ......he's the only one not from Russia. I agree though ....... I grew up with Chicago and I can't go more than a few days without watching/listening to this ensemble. To realize they don't speak English and the leader/bassist had to dissect each instrument note by note to compose is beyond genius to me.
@@PresidentGas1 I love this group, they sound more like Chicago than Chicago does !!
They’re not native English speakers??!!
@@tacticalultimatum They can hardly speak English at all in fact.
1:43 Drummers wearing a cool Leonid and Friends shirt that says "Chicagovich" across the bottom.
Spectacular.
Here's a group of 'Russians' who colluded to shut everyone else out of the running for the title of "Best Tribute Band"...
Appreciation and gratitude from the United States!
AWESOME response, arcdrummer! All of this "collusion" is turning out to be a GREAT thing! LMAO!
MCGA -- Making Chicago Great Again!
LOL
They're really putin on a great show in this video. They're not rushin' it at all.
LOL!
This is PERFECT!!! Everybody is SO good!! perfect!! and OMG SHE IS ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!
She is Ukranian. She's absolutely beautiful.
Chita is not in Ukraine. She's Siberian.
Nobody ever mentions the keyboardist. That guy is always right on the money!!!
True...but, what about that handsome trumpet player? Mmmmmmm! 😃
VLAD but he is no longer with the band.
Absolutely amazing!!
Igor the drummer is awesome !!!
They are all spot on and excellent musicians, much 💘
Your drummer is the greatest ever. spasibo vsem!!!
As an old, old, drummer myself let me just say you have a master drummer for your group.
yeah, he's critical and does a great job.
He makes it look easy
The drummer SHREDS!! Great talent.
I played too and this guy is good!
Igor rocks
The more I listen, the more this drummer just blows my mind.
he is perfect.
RIGHT?
He is so good that it’s easy to take him for granted
He is badass..
Thumbs down from me on this performance. Great technical skill, but the bell is the key to the outro on this tune and for some reason the guy is allergic to it.
I''m a 62 year old, who's been a Chicago fan from their beginning in 1970. My older Step-Sister gave me their first album, when they were still "Chicago Transit Authority", and I've loved them since. You guys... you guys...I'm speechless. If I wasn't watching the video, I'd swear I was listening to Chicago themselves. As a Tribute/ Cover band, that's as good as it gets. All I can say, is if you were to Come to my area, (after Covid-19 passes of course...), I'd gladly pay to see you perform live. Thank you for making a dreary morning bright.
I am the same age and have/had the same album and have been a fan ever since it first came out. I guess I'm going on half a century at this point..
One of my first eight track tapes - Chicago Transit Authority.
Me too. Incredible sound.
Same here 47 years old. "X" and what came before was a huge part of my childhood. Terry Kaths voice was a soothing experience in a chaotic world for a small mind.
I'm 65 and Chicago was the first concert I ever saw. They've always been special to me. I love these guys.
I discovered Leonid & Friends by accident, what a joyous find.
Me too. Right here. SO glad they played it up to Chicago's standards! Very tight and right!
Ditto!
Same here, scrolling through YT and saw them and was quite skeptical..until i listened.
My doctor said I must watch this every day and it will cure anything.
Those guys are amazing!!!
Agreed! We miss you in F1 my friend.
XD Your doctor is right...
Curious! so did mine :D
Chuckles
WTF kind of sorcery is this?! How come I am just discovering these musical geniuses? I am totally blown away🤯🤯🤯
Bahahahaha...me too!
Have you seen their version of Steely Dan's My Old School? O. M. G.
Same here...I would love to see them play here in Toronto...wow
LoL@ wtf kind of sorcery is this?
Awesome comment; "what kind of sorcery?" (LMAO at that) - but these cats are incredible!!!!
This band has become my drug of choice....in this upside down world we now live in, they not only right my ship but they elevate me to new highs of hope!
God bless them all!
Me, too! I come back time and time again to get my "fix."
Well said! They bring me to tears with their talent and passion.
🙃
I listen to them all the time!!
God bless them _and_ you. Be well and stay safe, Tony.
"Unpopular the Movie" - Red Grace Media
(Final Cut, 28:55)
Free On UA-cam
Leonid and Friends….this is without question the best cover band EVER. No one has ever been able to duplicate Chicago before this.
Actually, not even Chicago has been able to replicate it live as good as Leonid & Friends
@@RodolfLeclerc true
"No one has ever been able to duplicate Chicago before this." Really, have you listened to every single Chicago cover band in the world, or are you just talking out of your @ss?
Wow, I’ve listened to all their songs on a playlist. Chicago is my favorite all-time and this band definitely did them justice! Respect!!!
ok, I've seen them do Beginnings and now this, my 2 favorite Chicago songs, I can die happy.
My 2 favorites by Chicago too, old enough to remember when both songs were new.
Man, Serge on lead vocals has an incredible smoothness in a high register. I'd like to hear him cover some Boston tunes.
Maybe some Doobies and Triumph as well.
His name now is Sergetera...
babongo ‘More Than a Feeling’
Great tone and range....Cetera would be proud!
Tracy Marko Cetera has little room in his heart for anyone but Cetera
I'm addicted to this band. Wow. They can jam.
Vous êtes simplement incroyables. Continuez encore longtemps les gars, ce que vous faites est merveilleux.
First off, this is mixed to absolute perfection. What a band! Good Lord, this is perfect in every way. Every note. They play with joy and they clearly respect the music they are playing, you can hear it and see it on every member of the band. Well done!!
RTR!
Amen, RTR, and I can't believe I'm going to see them tomorrow night in a small south Georgia town. The week after I'll be in Title Town.
@@stephendanley1858 that's a great week brother! Enjoy the show. Just saw them in NYC. Terrific show, the energy was fantastic.
RTR from Al.
after having been a musician and singer for well over 40 years I can honestly say this was absolute perfection, and could not have possibly been done any better.
Hard hittin' cover. Drummer and brass are outstanding. Vocals and all instruments performed to excellence. Absolutely fantastic!
WOW I am literally in tears here folks. The precision of this fantastic band is outstanding. Superbly done.
Ludgero Mendonca agree completely.
Ludgero Mendonca well said!!
Right there with you.
I cannot agree more. I have not been moved by a band like this in decades. This is truly unique, outstanding, a gem, a diamond
Outstanding! I agree!
Terry kath is definitely looking down & smiling upon you great guys
Totally agree....not to mention all of the "Chicago" fans still here! :-)
@@carrollshelby8690 Terry was high, drunk & tired. It was an accident.
There’s nothing that ever said he intended to do it. Fact is, while it’s possible he was drunk or stoned at the time, surely in his mind he thought the chamber was empty.
I doubt at all it was intentional. Ergo he is in heaven.
Definitely
One of my favorite parts of watching and rewatching these videos is seeing how much sheer JOY these guys inspire in thousands upon thousands of commenters. And it’s because they themselves are playing these great songs out of joy. Not the music biz; not band politics: pure joy. Thank you thank you thank you!!
Totally agree. The JOY exudes from every pore!! Magical.
Yeah, that's what I like best about them, their joyous energy just lifts me up every time.
This song is so good it is hard to decide who to compliment more... horns, drums, keyboard, vocals, guitar, bass, background vocals, wow. This is a perfect song.
Saw them a few weeks ago. I had tears in my eyes they were so good. I may have to go to St. Pete in Dec. to see them again. Great musicians.
The horns just floor me every time.
Um ... the girl.
@@adamgoodnature9009 Horns...horns...the best !!!
Let's say drums!
Throw some creds to Vlad Senchillo on piano! He doesn't get mentioned much, but an essential member of this band.
Unfortunately he isn't with them anymore.
@@bryanlane3713
What?!!!!
@@bryanlane3713 Why? idk
I'm an older American. Grew up with this music. The positive energy I feel from your productions is incredible.
Hey Raider helmet guy.... I too am a Raider fan (since the 60's) and remember this music from my high school days, although, in the East Bay we actually favored Tower of Power! Anyway, I look forward to seeing L&F's in Lake Tahoe on November 8th - they're awesome!! Rock on!
You know it is going to be a great day when you see a new Leonid and Friends video pop up!
This is what happens when you get the right caliber of musicians together
Trump 2024!
Ksenya Buzina is awesome vocals she rocks -)
And she is gorgeous 😊
Dam, there just is not one weak element in this group of musicians. Bravo!!!!!!
My thoughts exactly. The technical proficiency and natural talent of every member of the group is spot on.
Three years ago, I fell in love with a Russian woman. I began to learn more about the culture, people and the country that I was raised and trained to hate or kill if needed. I served in the USAF in Berlin during the cold war. But these people are genuine, loving, family oriented and loyal. I found this band two weeks ago and needless to say, growing up in the 70's, EWF & Chicago were at the top of the charts. THANKS for this beautiful music and my Elena :)
Frank, my heart sings joy to you and your loved one! Let's have peace for once
Totally agree…
Just get rid of politics…
The algorithm sent me here - i haven't watched this video in a few years. I'm enjoying it but I also feel sad. I pray all of the talented musicians and singers here are safe and well.
They say they cover these songs and they put on an exceptional musical show, lots of Chicago and Earth Wind and Fire
Throw bottles at me through the interwebs if you must, but I think this version is way better than Chicago's. Plus. they make it look so easy and joyful!
its fun to watch people having such a blast while knocking this song out of the park.
way better, no but very good, as close to being Chicago without being Chicago
Better. Amazing. Fun. I am rocking my ass off to their music tonight... how have I never heard of these guys before?
I understand you, the thing is the sound system today is much,much better
@@vg5157 Absolutely true and a very valid point. I think these guys may sound better to me b/c they aren't taking themselves too seriously and are just having a good time.
Knowing that nobody in the world can be a ringer for Pete, In my humble opinion, these Chicago covers are better than any vocal performances that Chicago has put out since Pete left.
Everyone is perfect....but drummer just crushes it.
Yeah buddy, Totally Agree.
Ditto !!!
He’s perfect on every video they’ve posted
That guy is like a Swiss watch!
I noticed the same thing and was going to comment exactly the same! He is incredible! So dialed in, every note, such talent!
I don't have enough adjectives in my vocabulary to describe how much I love this band! Just amazing.
I am a 65 year old American drummer. I am retired now, but I remember listening to this song when it first came out. To be honest, if I heard you guys sing this on the radio, I would assume it was Chicago playing it and not you guys.
I am also assuming by your names that you are Russian. I salute you guys. I don’t think there are even many American bands that could pull that off!
As a drummer, I believe Igor’s rendition of this may possibly be better than the original, and in the original version done by Chicago, they had a much bigger drum kit. Sounded like Igor didn’t need anything else at all! 😉 That is a VERY hard song to drum to!
TEARS in my eyes, can't stop. Just an amazing, amazing job. Absolutely wonderful, Leonid. One "Like" isn't enough.
Damn straight!
ditto they are wonderful !!!!!!!!!
I could not agree more...
They are amazing...
Mr. Phillips, sir what you felt in your heart of hearts while listening to this incredible group of true musicians. Proof that music, & played like this is universal. I don't if it's my American DNA, or the Weed & Whiskey kicking in as I listen to them just like U did Sir Phillips. Well written sir, indeed. BTY: It's a combination of my American DNA, & this Weed that I can't STOP Smoking! Try it like that.
YES, they drive us to tears. Hasn't happened to me in oh, decades. Can't believe I just found out about this diamond, this gem.
Leonid and Friends.... FOREVER! I can't even begin to get enough of the talent in this collection of the some of the world's best musicians! Salute!!! Igor!!
You guys get stronger every day. Love this one, one of my favorites!
I think your as good as the original, maybe better.
Igor is da man!
I love Chicago music very very much. Now I seen this guy from Russia these guys are awesome.
you folks ae not new to me, spent hours watching your video's...My wife had liver cancer and she passed away on Nov.25, 2018. The hardest pain and loss i have ever felt;
tonight is the FIRST time I have felt happiness .......thank you for posting your video's
It’s incredible that this, let’s call it a tribute band, makes music so faithful to the original that it is almost indistinguishable. Great, great work!
At this point I'm wondering, How did you beautiful people with so much talent find each other to create what you have done, I'm truly in awe. You people are so good, I have no words
Just about the coolest damn thing I have ever seen!
The coolest thing is they hardly speak English.
Watch their cover of 25 or 6 to 4. It'll blow your mind. I can't get over how good these guys are, I mean, it's perfect which when you consider that they're Russian makes it even more incredible.
Say that again
My 100 + of watching this beautiful rendition of the best band in THE world...Chicago
holy shit, this is the best that I have ever seen
Playing the notes letter-perfect is one thing - and this band does that well, indeed. But, they capture the high spirit, the great joy of the original performance, too, which is something the current iteration of Chicago has a hard time doing. A real delight to listen to and enjoy.
well put!!!!!
I would be honored to perform with them!
Well put. Current iteration sadly plays their great songs with little enthusiasm.
Polar Bear yep. Technique, with soul and feel.
To be fair, this really isn’t a happy song. That’s the whole point of the juxtaposition of an upbeat song, with really downbeat lyrics.
Holy shit... Just HOLY SHIT!!!! 15 yr metal vocalist, raised with old school rock. Gma's gone, my old man is still alive... This is my favorite cover of this song, hands down. You all nailed it!!! I can't express enough, the nostalgia & joy your cover brought. Thank you so much!!!
All the musicians are really really good but the drummer is exceptional!
THIS IS WONDERFUL! What an amazing sound that takes us 73-year-olds back to our youth! Great band!
same here! I’m also 73 and been loving this band for 6 years now
Salute to the brass and woodwind guys in the band too. Let's face it.. without them even Chicago would have never been Chicago :o)
Wonderful!
You guys aren't just a great cover band. You're one of the best bands ever.
Yes indeed Love this Band
I agree!
Could there be any better place to see this fantastic band than Hawaii ?? Got to see Chicago at the Waikiki Shell in September. And now...
Leonid & Friends 11/29/24 Blue Note Waikiki. Two sold out shows ! Going to the late show.
I'm so lucky. Going surfing before the show too. Hopefully no big swells, I'm old....
Peace, Love and much Aloha from Waikiki 🤙
Thank you guys for posting this today. I lost a lifelong friend to cancer earlier today and your performance brought me a moment of solace.
Dean M my prayers are with you. My wife currently has terminal cancer. It really hurts.
Thank you Slaterguy.
treasure every moment you have with her. I will pray for you both .
Dean and Slaterguy--prayers to both of you and your families from St. Louis.
Be there, done that, have the scars mentality and physically to show for it. This is one of the things that does help. If there is any consolation to what we deal with when these things happen it must be how it makes one realize just precious the seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks and years actually are. I now spend very little time with TV, or doing things others think I should do. I live life to a much fuller degree than before. I often wonder what both my dad James and my best buddy Gary would do, or how would he handle this. Yes, I am feeling stronger everyday, and I am so thankful for Chicago's song regardless of who plays it. I send Prayers, positive energies, and good will to all those going through something like this. Love all of you.
Just saw them in Sacramento. Mind blown. I love to see their tours expanding and for them to get all of the recognition they deserve. Damn. Every one of them is an incredible musician.
Shit...I did not know they were here.....shit !!!!!!
When the COVID-19 thing is over I will travel a great distance to see them.
How did I not know they were in Sac-town? Bummed that I missed them.
I got 6 tickets (for me and friends) for 2021.
I hope they come back to Sacramento again - I will not miss them again.
This is the best cover band on the planet. No...wait...this is the best band on the planet.
Igor!!!!!! You are the tightest drummer I have watched in decades. Fantastic!!! Come tour Australia!
The man has the timing of an expensive Swiss watch!
Michael, i'm quoting that! Brilliant!
He plays drums from age 7. Really cool skills!
It shows! A craftsman!
Drives it like a freight train! Brilliant playing.
It was very profound to me as I was going through different covers and drum covers of this song to see Russians and Ukrainians singing together.
Let's hope we get back there and my wish for all of you is to end this madness so we can all sing again.
Thank you for the excellent cover.
I recall reading they were from four countries at this time. The third was Belarus, and I don't remember the 4th. But then Serge left to fight for Ukraine (man I hope he's ok), so it was back to three countries. I think the parting was friendly. The situation while this lineup was together was a political mess, and a band that stood above it. Serge had to follow his conscience. I think everyone understood that. I don't know where these guys are now, but when the war broke out, they were in the middle of a US tour, and they continued that tour.
It's the Dirty Politicians that get our young men fighting each other for THEIR RICHES AND POWER!
As Eisenhauer said years ago; "Beware of the Military Industrial Complex!" CHEERS!
That's because all the people are terrific...it's our governments that suck. Theirs and ours.
@@beenaplumber8379 I thought it was Serge. Heartbreaking. Damn Putin.
Their related like Scots and Irish, like Iroquois and Huron...
They are all incredible , but, but the drummer is MIND BLOWING GOOD.
Leonid, I have been following your group of (amazing) musicians for years now. By far, the best audio and video production quality of anyone on UA-cam. I have noticed quite a new changes in musicians and vocalists appearing in your videos. Have you lost anyone who appeared in your videos due to the ongoing Ukrainian conflict? I pray all your comrades have survived this horrible war. God bless all of you!
I’m a 34 young dude and I love Chicago especially this song and cover ❤️
I got to see them live in Annapolis Maryland in 2020 and my wife bought a meet and greet package so we got to chat with each one of them. They are as nice as they are exceptionally talented. I feel so fortunate that we got to see them with both Sergis in the band.
The musical talent, the sound engineering, and the dedication to "get it right" leave me speechless. Quickly run out of adjectives of praise for these ladies and gentlemen. May your abilities take you all to new heights you never dreamed of!
Listening to this song for Serge and the Ukrainian people and hope the power of music makes them “Stronger every day.”
I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Leonid & Friends “Live” twice. They put on an amazing performance and are spot-on on every song. I never got to see Chicago live but after seeing Leonid & Friends, I feel like I have. They are awesome!
Have heard a lot of cover bands.......but our Russian friends are the best ever.
THE BEST THING I'VE HEARD IN THIRTY YEARS.
These guys are so freaking good. I'm loving Chicago all over again.
There is Igor, in his headphones, drumming perfectly. As always.
I can't get over the phenomenal drummer! Amazing!
Awesome rendition! Great song and cover band!
Chicago pushed the envelope as much as the Beatles & the Beach Boys when it came to innovative & experimental rock music. Great job!
These guys hit it out of the park each and every time. Ksenia is so easy on the eyes, too. Be still, my beating heart!!!
It's "Ksenona," and have you seen this?
goo.gl/iyYhRx
Oops. I guess it says "Ksenia" here and "Ksenona" there. Not speaking Russian...no clue. Sorry. Anyway, enjoy the video. (c:
You're both right! From her about section on UA-cam:
Official Channel of Ksenia Buzina | Ksenona
Ksenia is her given name and Ksenona is her stage name. She's from Leonid's home town called Chita which is in Siberia east of Lake Baikal near the Mongolian border. They have both come to Moscow and established world class careers. When they make their North American tour next year they will likely make musical history from Russia with love.
Have they published any tour information yet?
The best Chicago cover band ever! Just amazing!
If that doesnt get you pumped up , I don't know what can.
I've watched several of these videos. These cats are pretty freaking incredible. I have seen several bands cover music, but none quite like this. Bravo.
As a Chicagoan that is a life long Chicago fan , I congratulate you , what a great performance .
Terry Kath would be SO PROUD.
Even Peter Cetera has to think that guy is good!
NO HE WOULDN'T ! HE'D TELL THESE GUYS TO MAKE THEIR OWN ORIGINAL MUSIC AND STOP STRALING HIS. ARE YOU KIDDING ME.
@@TheBigO-k6g "Stop Straling His??" I guess the education system failed you miserably John. Are YOU kidding me??
Tom, you are SO RIGHT
Do we have a problem here, John?
All 15 of you are incredible! Please keep going. We want more.
NO WE DON'T . WE HAVE THE ORIGINAL RECORDINGS BY THE ORIGINAL ARTISTS TO LISTEN TO. WHY LISTEN TO COPYCATS WHO HAVE NO ORIGINALITY OF THEIR OWN ?
@@TheBigO-k6g Your posts have lost their originality too..Why listen to what you have to say when you do nothing but cut and paste??
@@TheBigO-k6g Why listen to copycats? Because they're the best goddamned Chicago copycats on the planet that not even the REAL Chicago can copy!!!
Rhythm, timing, pitch, melody 🎶 💙 ♥️ and unwavering devotion to a timeless classic--Outstanding!
One thing I really like is that everyone in the band is listed at the end of the videos. There is no one person who gets all the credit. Nicely done.
With the passing recently of Hal Blaine, Igor is now the greatest drummer in the world
I have to agree with you, Igor is not the most technical, and who cares? He's the most relevant, competent, musical drummer I've seen
While Neil Peart might have a few things to say about that, your point is well taken and I agree :)
In the pocket, just like Hal
You know - just sitting here thinking exactly the same thing - Igor is one of the best live drummers in the world.
@@joe6096 Well, not anymore :-(
This cover is how I realized there were three Rolling Stones quotes in the song :). I had never noticed that in the original recording since there it's so down in the mix.
I saw them in Los Angeles on 1-12. Even got a photo with Ksenya - I was not leaving without that. Their US tour is over but I'm sure they'll be back. These guys are better than you can imagine and I've seen Chicago twice. They travel with just three guys on brass - the younger guys - and it's as tight as Chicago or what's in these videos. I told Leonid to add a couple of Bill Champlin songs - I don't think he understood me, but God love him because he really nails it on these songs. Vocals, guitars, keyboards, drums everything. Even added a nice little brass arrangement to Color My World. You have to see these guys. Chicago charges $100 for meet and greet photos but these guys did it for free. Excellent.
>Even got a photo with Ksenya - I was not leaving without that.
Oh, you bastard! ;)
As usual Igor kicking ass on the drum kit!
Give the drummer some!
Everybody kills it in this. Love that they added the "ad-lib" vocals into it as well
If I were an actual member of Chicago I’m not sure how I’d react to hearing this group. On the one hand I’d be incredibly impressed and while I wouldn’t necessarily feel threatened by them my ego might have a tough time praising them for how good they are. I drop dead every time I hear them.
Well, Danny Seraphine actually caught on to Leonid and Friends, and let his ex-band know about them. They proceeded to link a few of these videos to their official website which is really how LAF started making inroads to America then getting the demand for a USA tour. In fact, Danny actually sat in for Igor on drums for a couple tracks including Anybody Know What Time It Is on one of the shows. Not sure what the rest of the band that tours as Chicago thinks of these cats, but Danny himself is of 100% approval. He sat in ice cold and nailed it. You could tell the rest of the band was beside themselves, smiling at him like a 12 year old school girl while THE Danny Seraphine is playing drums in THEIR cover band. Don't forget, Leonid is focused on the first 5 albums, the albums that made Chicago the icons they are. For them, Danny might as well be Paul McCartney.
On a side note, if there was ever a reason for Chicago to let bygones be bygones and bring Danny back in to the band HE started, THAT'S it.
Damn! Just, Damn! Got a Russian Neil Peart on drums, kid on guitar got serious chops, great harmonies, horns are tight as hell, and just extraordinary musicianship from everyone. After seeing only 5 or 6 songs I bought both albums. Incredible!
YESYESYESYESYES
If only they had vinyl-i could complete my Chicago collection!
No they got a Russian Danny on drums baby
Shows how amazing the original band Chicago was. To have a great ensemble like this performing your stuff, legendary.
I thank God every day the Russian Red Army did what it did during World War II. Because without those efforts, without that sacrifice, my father probably would not have survived in the POW Camp he was held at for three years in today's Poland. His treatment never would have improved. He would not have made it home to America. I would not have been born 20-years later. And I certainly would not be sitting here today enjoying this marvelous, wonderful tribute band to Chicago.
Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦
You guys are Killing It!!! Hats off to the whole production!
They’ve even been endorsed by Chicago’s original drummer, Danny Seraphine.
My favorite Leonid singer. Don't lose this guy!!!
That woman is the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. You are all very good, thank you!
She is definitely the diamond in the gold nugget pile
Couerl you are dead on Ksenia is not only easy on the eyes her voice is easy on the ears! Wonderful band!
And for such beauty she's got balls! She takes on karen carpenter's superstar and damn if it aint respectable. Check it out.