From the Keyboard to the Stage: Robert Lamm Revisits the Chicago Classic “Beginnings”
In a performance that reconnects audiences with one of classic rock’s most enduring compositions, Robert Lamm presents a heartfelt rendition of Beginnings, the song he originally wrote for the band Chicago. The performance, recorded in 2003 and widely circulated online, highlights the enduring appeal of a song that has remained a staple of the Chicago repertoire for decades.
First introduced on the band’s debut album Chicago Transit Authority in 1969, “Beginnings” quickly became one of the group’s defining works. Written by Lamm, the track reflected the band’s early ambition to blend rock instrumentation with jazz influenced arrangements and a powerful horn section. The composition stood out for its rhythmic acoustic guitar introduction, layered vocals, and the distinctive brass textures that became a signature of the Chicago sound.
Although the song did not initially achieve major chart success upon its first release, its reputation grew rapidly as the band gained popularity. When reissued in 1971 alongside the ballad “Colour My World,” the single climbed to number seven on the United States Billboard Hot 100 and reached number one on the Adult Contemporary chart. This later success helped establish “Beginnings” as one of the most recognizable songs in Chicago’s catalog.
The 2003 performance offers a more intimate perspective on the composition. Rather than the full horn driven arrangement heard on the original recording, Lamm focuses on the melodic and lyrical core of the piece. His piano playing and steady vocal delivery bring attention to the craftsmanship of the songwriting itself. The performance demonstrates how the song’s structure remains effective even when stripped down to its essentials.
Historically, Lamm has explained that the inspiration for “Beginnings” emerged after attending a concert by folk singer Richie Havens in Los Angeles. The rhythmic acoustic style of Havens left a strong impression on him and contributed to the musical direction of the song. Lamm later composed the piece on a twelve string guitar that was missing its two lowest strings, an unusual circumstance that helped shape the distinctive sound of the original recording.
More than three decades after the song first appeared, the 2003 performance confirms its lasting relevance. Audiences still respond strongly to the song’s optimistic message and memorable musical architecture. For Lamm, the moment serves not only as a reminder of Chicago’s early creativity but also as a testament to the durability of thoughtful songwriting.
Today, “Beginnings” remains an essential part of the Chicago legacy. Through performances such as this one, Robert Lamm continues to demonstrate how a song written in the late 1960s can still resonate with listeners many years later, proving that great music often lives far beyond the era that first produced it.