Musical acts come and go, but two imminent ParkWest concerts prove that talent and versatility equal staying power.
Decades have passed since six young musicians gathered around a dining room table in Chicago in February 1967 to plot their musical futures and groundbreaking sound. Chicago used its members' diverse musical backgrounds - rock, classical and jazz - to create something unique. The result has been a rock band that uses classical horns as an integral part of its much-loved sound.They released their first album as Chicago Transit Authority in 1969, then shortened their name to Chicago in time for their second album. They toured with the likes of Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix and recorded such enduring hits as "Saturday in the Park" and "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is."
The faces have changed along the way: After the accidental 1978 shooting death of guitarist Terry Kath they wondered if they wanted to continue. But they got back to work, and while they were putting together "Chicago 16" Bill Champlin joined the band. When Peter Cetera left in 1985 for a solo career, singer/writer/player Jason Scheff signed on. Guitarist Dawayne Bailey joined up in time for "Chicago 18." Founding members include singer/songwriter Robert Lamm and clarinetist Walt Parazaider. Co-arrangers Lee Loughnan and James Pankov round out the roster.
With the single "Hearts in Trouble" Chicago became one of the few intact pop acts - if not the only one - ever to enjoy hit singles during four different decades.
Their most recent album is "Chicago 21."
Chicago will rock the hills around ParkWest on Tuesday, Aug. 24, at 7:30 p.m.
- KENNY LOGGINS is another enduring voice in pop music. He's come a long way since he split from the duo Loggins and Messina to pursue what has been a highly successful solo career.
Loggins plays ParkWest on Friday, Aug. 27, at 8 p.m., along with special guest Lauren Christy.
Loggins, who has won two Grammys and been nominated for an Academy Award (for "Footloose"), has proved popular with Utah audiences for years.
His first three solo albums turned platinum with hits like "This Is It," "Whenever I Call You Friend," "Forever" and "Danger Zone."
He has also carved a niche as an environmental activist, even hosting an hourlong musical TV show "This Island Earth" on the Disney Channel.
Tickets are available at Smith'sTix outlets, King Kong Music in Park City and after 3 p.m. the day of the show (cash only).
- Lois Collins