Chicago's "25 or 6 to 4" - A Classic Rock Hit - 1969

25 or 6 to 4 is a song by the American rock band Chicago. It was released in 1970 as the second single from their second studio album, Chicago. The song was written by Robert Lamm and explores the concept of time and creativity.

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_{Album: Chicago II (Columbia)}

Chicago is an American rock band formed in 1967 in Chicago, Illinois. The band initially called themselves "The Chicago Transit Authority" before shortening their name to Chicago. They are renowned for their unique blend of rock, jazz, and pop, often characterized by their distinctive horn section, which sets them apart from other rock bands.

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_{Chicago is an American rock band formed in 1967 in Chicago, Illinois}

The original lineup of Chicago included Robert Lamm (keyboards and vocals), Terry Kath (guitar and vocals), Peter Cetera (bass and vocals), Lee Loughnane (trumpet), James Pankow (trombone), Walter Parazaider (woodwinds), and Danny Seraphine (drums). This combination of rock instruments with a horn section created a sound that was innovative and groundbreaking at the time.

Chicago quickly rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with a string of hit albums and singles. Their self-titled debut album, "Chicago Transit Authority," and its follow-up, "Chicago II," achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Hits like "Saturday in the Park," "Feelin' Stronger Every Day," "If You Leave Me Now," and "25 or 6 to 4" became iconic songs of their era.

Over the years, Chicago continued to evolve their sound, incorporating elements of pop, ballads, and softer rock, which appealed to a wide range of listeners. They released a series of successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, earning a reputation for their musical versatility and craftsmanship.

1. The title refers to the time at which the songwriter, Robert Lamm, was writing the song - either 25 or 26 minutes before 4 AM. 

2. The song was first released in 1970 and became a major hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 

3. The distinctive guitar riff in the song, played by Terry Kath, is considered one of the greatest in rock music history.

Waiting for the break of day

Searching for something to say

Flashing lights against the sky

Giving up, I close my eyes

Sitting cross-legged on the floor

Twenty five or six to four

Staring blindly into space

Getting up to splash my face

Wanting just to stay awake

Wondering how much I can take

Should I try to do some more?

Twenty five or six to four

Oh yeah

Feeling like I ought to sleep

Spinning room is sinking deep

Searching for something to say

Waiting for the break of day

Twenty five or six to four

Twenty five or six to four