A Spark of New Romance: Chicago’s “Beginnings”
In 1969, as part of their debut Chicago Transit Authority album, Chicago introduced the world to “Beginnings,” a song that captures the exhilaration and simplicity of falling in love. Written by Robert Lamm, this track blends jazz-rock and soft balladry with an exuberant horn section, creating a sound as warm and optimistic as its lyrics. Although it didn’t become a hit initially, a re-release in 1971 brought it the recognition it deserved, reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Since then, “Beginnings” has stood the test of time as one of Chicago’s emblematic songs.
The song opens with a gentle, rhythmic guitar line that pulls listeners in with a soft, intimate tone, setting the stage for Lamm’s warm vocals. As Lamm begins to sing, he dives into the magical feeling of a romance just starting, each lyric expressing the freshness of newfound love. Lines like “When I kiss you, I feel a thousand different feelings” are simple but effective, encapsulating that giddy, heart-fluttering sensation that comes with a love that’s just unfolding. The lyrics are neither complicated nor flashy, but they speak to something universal and genuine, resonating deeply with listeners who have felt the euphoria of early love.
What makes “Beginnings” even more compelling is its layered instrumentation. Chicago’s hallmark horn section—brass, trumpet, and trombone—bursts in, adding brightness and texture that lift the song from soft contemplation into joyful exuberance. As the song progresses, it transforms into a celebratory instrumental jam, with each section playing off one another in a captivating, harmonious rhythm. This musical build-up mirrors the increasing emotional intensity of love, gradually growing fuller and more impassioned as the instruments take on a life of their own. The instrumental outro extends into a hypnotic groove, as though the song itself is unwilling to let go of the feeling.
Lamm’s vocal style in “Beginnings” is remarkably down-to-earth, lending sincerity to the lyrics without a hint of exaggeration. His delivery matches the understated elegance of the words, allowing the listener to become immersed in the simple beauty of love’s beginnings. The refrain “Only the beginning…” becomes a meditative line, as though capturing the endless potential of love at its start.
“Beginnings” continues to resonate with listeners for its purity and joyful expression of love’s early spark. By melding jazz elements with classic rock, Chicago created a song that feels as timeless as the emotion it portrays. Whether played on a warm summer evening or at the height of a party, “Beginnings” carries the glow of possibility, embodying the way love can make the world feel new all over again.