Color My World (1971) 11/24/20

One of Chicago's “Greatest Songs of the '70s” survived being the flip side of another hit TWICE...until it FINALLY became a hit on its own!

“Color My World” was written by group member James Pankow as part of his “Ballet for a Girl In Buchannon,” and was originally recorded for the album Chicago II in 1970...with the late Terry Kath on vocals, and Walt Parazaider playing the flute solo. It was released on the flip side of the classic Chicago hit, “Make Me Smile,” which was a Top 10 hit in the US and Canada. (We'll be highlighting that song at a later date.)

In 1971, ir was re-released on the flip side of the re-release of the song “Beginnings,” which we aptly highlighted back on January 1st.(https://cuuuk8.wixsite.com/mysite/70smusic/search/beginnings)

THIS time, BOTH sides of the record were hits—together reaching #7 on Billboard's Hot 100. The song became a slow dance staple at high school dances, wedding receptions...and even in the discos, and remains so today.

And Chicago still plays it in concert...with trumpeter Lee Loughnane now on vocals, and Walt Parazaider still on the flute!

TRIVIA: Frank Sinatra wanted to record the song, but only if James Pankow would write a second verse. James declined. He felt the song was good the way it was.

It was...and it is!

“Color My World:” A “Great Song of 1970, 1971, and today!