Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Chicago
Dec 9, 2025
Lee Loughnane and Jimmy Pankow, founding members of the legendary band Chicago, dive into the band's origins, discussing how the unique blend of rock and brass came to life. They share fascinating stories about recording in iconic studios and creating their signature horn arrangements. The duo reflects on their decades-long touring routine, joking about never unpacking their suitcases. They also touch on their songwriting process, early influences, and the impact of touring with legends like Jimi Hendrix, making for an engaging look back at their enduring legacy.
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Origin: Horn Band Born In A Basement Pitch
- Walter Yudain pitched the idea of a rock band with a horn section and the group committed to it as a democracy.
- They agreed you only leave if you ask out or die, and they stuck with the plan through early gigs and moves to LA and New York.
Late Nights At CBS And Creative Studio Hacks
- Chicago recorded their first albums at CBS 52nd Street mostly on the graveyard shift while Simon & Garfunkel used daytime.
- They live-tracked, learned studio techniques quickly, and used creative spaces like a church for natural reverb.
Use Rooms As Instruments
- Limited track counts forced them to use real rooms for ambience and creative recording choices.
- The church sessions gave Chicago Transit Authority its large natural room sound they couldn't get on the board.