Celebrating Iconic Musicians of Chicago on National Vinyl Record Day

Aug 12, 2022

Since today is National Vinyl Records Day, we thought we’d celebrate by highlighting some of the fantastic musicians, bands, and performing artists that hail from Chicago. We really do love living in such close proximity to one of the most Musical cities in America! It’s such a gift to be able to connect with our favorite city through the work of these fantastic musicians. If you’ve got a favorite musician we’ve left off our list, or a great musical hotspot or record shop we should visit just let us know in the comments on our social media!

Iconic Chicago Musicians

Muddy Waters was an iconic American Blues Singer-Songwriter and musician known for his immensely powerful vocals with incredible depth of emotion. He also played the guitar and the harmonica!

Styx is an American rock band famous for their signature blend of hard rock guitar and acoustic guitar. The band formed in 1972 as a progressive alt-rock band but soon rose to meteoric success as an arena rock band in the late 70s and 80s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=of6JVn8i934

Cheap Trick formed in Rockford, Illinois in 1973 and have been on tour as a classic 80s “Power Pop” and Hard rock crossover group. Their iconic songs have been used in countless movies and television shows, as well as becoming infamous songs in pop culture history!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yY9IXaZ9ius

Wilco rose to popularity in the 1990s with their blend of alt-rock music with a hint of country-folk from their roots and poetic, heartfelt lyrics.

https://www..com/watch?v=wHvNNEAYlbU

Curtis Mayfiled is an unparalleled musical genius, singer-songwriter, and record producer whose legendary vocals, guitar, and influence have left an indelible mark on pop music, movies, and television.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cmo6MRYf5g

Benny Goodman is heralded as the King of Swing with his trademark clarinet playing and brass band accompaniments. His unique spin on instrumental tracks ushered in the swing era of the 1930s, but made such a lasting impression that we still enjoy his music decades later! He’s a true legend in Chicago music history!

Earth Wind and Fire are synonymous with the 1970s, but their music has beguiled people worldwide for decades! From movies to radio to even Vine and TikTok, their music has influenced just about every generation, and their infectious melodies keep us dancing!

Fall Out Boy rose to success in the early 2000s pop-punk and emo-pop scene thanks to their catchy riffs and memorable (if sometimes incomprehensible) rock anthem lyrics. And of course they inspired legions of teen fans with their quirky music videos and “devilishly good looks.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onzL0EM1pKY
Chaka Khan has produced an outstanding amount of timeless pop tunes that have become an icon for so many communities and individuals! Once you hear her legendary dance beats, you can’t help but get up and dance. There’s just nothing like her powerful, confident attitude and incredibly smooth vocals!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVDCNmdi7QI

Common is a rapper, hip-hop artist, and activist who hit mainstream popularity thanks to his slick beats, incredibly crafted spoken-word style, and his thoughtful, empathetic lyrics which focused on positivity and social justice. He later transitioned into acting for film

and TV. He is also outspoken on current events and social issues, and considered an iconic figure in activist spheres.

Sam Cooke was one of the most influential Black artists in the history of pop music, known for his distinctive style in Soul, R&B, and Gospel genres. He’s often referred to as the “King of Soul” and was not only a singer-songwriter but also a producer and entrepreneur! He is truly beloved by music aficionados but especially those who enjoy soul music.
Chicago is a staple in American Rock music and so ubiquitous that it’s hard to believe they were once formerly known as “The Big Thing.” With over 100,000,000 records sold, they’re one of the longest-running and best-selling music groups of all time! Since 1967 they have recorded over 38 albums, and although the lineup has had a few changes, and the band has had its ups and downs and breakups, they’ve had legendary staying power and are still on tour today!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_l-st8Q1S0

Looking to grab some of these mega hits on vinyl for your collection? Check out these Chicago area record shops!