Chicago Albums in Order: Chicago, the iconic American rock band with a signature horn section, has captivated audiences since 1967 with their unique blend of rock, jazz, R&B, and pop. Known for hits like “25 or 6 to 4” and “If You Leave Me Now,” they’ve sold over 100 million records, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. This guide lists all Chicago albums in order, offering fans, collectors, and new listeners a comprehensive look at their studio discography, complete with release dates, key tracks, and their evolution over decades. Dive into this ultimate resource to explore the band’s timeless music and legacy!
Overview of Chicago’s Musical Legacy
Formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1967, Chicago began as The Big Thing before becoming the Chicago Transit Authority and, finally, Chicago in 1969. Their self-described “rock and roll band with horns” style fused jazz-rock innovation with pop sensibilities, earning them critical acclaim and commercial success. With 23 gold, 18 platinum, and eight multi-platinum albums, Chicago’s discography is a testament to their versatility, from experimental double LPs to chart-topping ballads. This post focuses on their studio albums, providing a chronological guide to the Chicago band discography that shaped their enduring influence in rock and pop music.
All Chicago Albums Available on: Apple Music
Also Read: Foreigner Albums in Order
Complete List of Chicago Albums in Order
Below is a detailed list of all Chicago albums in order, covering their studio releases from 1969 to 2022. Each entry includes the release date, an overview, key tracks, and notable facts to help you navigate their extensive Chicago music albums.
1. Chicago Transit Authority (1969)
- Overview: The debut double album from Chicago, then called Chicago Transit Authority, introduced their jazz-rock fusion to the world. Recorded under producer James William Guercio, it showcased the band’s innovative horn section and complex arrangements, establishing them as pioneers. The album’s raw energy and ambition made it a standout, earning a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.
- Key Tracks: “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” (#7 US), “Beginnings,” “Questions 67 and 68”
- Notable Facts: Reached #17 on the Billboard 200, certified platinum by 1970, and inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2014.
2. Chicago (1970)
- Overview: Known as Chicago II, this double LP continued the band’s jazz-rock exploration with tighter songwriting. James Pankow’s “Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon” suite is a highlight, blending classical influences with rock. The album’s success solidified Chicago’s place in rock history, part of their Chicago albums in order.
- Key Tracks: “Make Me Smile” (#9 US), “Colour My World,” “25 or 6 to 4” (#4 US)
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1970 and platinum in 1991, nominated for Grammy Album of the Year.
3. Chicago III (1971)
- Overview: Another double album, Chicago III leaned into political themes and experimental sounds, reflecting the band’s creative freedom. Tracks like “Travel Suite” showcased their versatility, though it was less commercially dominant than its predecessors.
- Key Tracks: “Free” (#20 US), “Lowdown” (#35 US)
- Notable Facts: Reached #2 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1971 and platinum in 1986.
4. Chicago V (1972)
- Overview: Chicago’s first single-disc release, Chicago V, marked a shift to more concise songwriting while retaining their horn-driven sound. Robert Lamm’s “Saturday in the Park” captured everyday life with political undertones, boosting the album’s popularity.
- Key Tracks: “Saturday in the Park” (#3 US), “Dialogue (Part I & II)” (#24 US)
- Notable Facts: Hit #1 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1972 and double platinum in 1986.
5. Chicago VI (1973)
- Overview: Incorporating Brazilian percussionist Laudir de Oliveira, Chicago VI blended jazz and pop with a smoother edge. Recorded at Caribou Ranch, it reflected the band’s growing mainstream appeal while maintaining their Chicago studio albums signature.
- Key Tracks: “Just You ‘n’ Me” (#4 US), “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” (#10 US)
- Notable Facts: Reached #1 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1973 and double platinum in 1986.
6. Chicago VII (1974)
- Overview: A double album, Chicago VII explored jazz influences deeply, with tracks like “Aire” showcasing instrumental prowess. It also marked Peter Cetera’s rise as a lead vocalist, hinting at their pop future.
- Key Tracks: “(I’ve Been) Searchin’ So Long” (#9 US), “Call On Me” (#6 US), “Wishing You Were Here” (#11 US)
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1974 and platinum later.
7. Chicago VIII (1975)
- Overview: Chicago VIII leaned into nostalgia and political commentary, with tracks like “Harry Truman” reflecting the era’s mood. The album maintained their chart dominance despite a slightly softer sound.
- Key Tracks: “Harry Truman” (#13 US), “Old Days” (#5 US)
- Notable Facts: Reached #1 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1975 and platinum in 1986.
8. Chicago X (1976)
- Overview: Chicago X marked a shift toward pop ballads, with Peter Cetera’s “If You Leave Me Now” becoming their first #1 single. Produced by James William Guercio, it balanced their jazz-rock roots with mainstream appeal.
- Key Tracks: “If You Leave Me Now” (#1 US), “Another Rainy Day in New York City”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #3 on the Billboard 200, certified gold and platinum in 1976, won a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance.
9. Chicago XI (1977)
- Overview: The final album with Terry Kath before his tragic death in 1978, Chicago XI featured Cetera’s emotive ballads and the band’s signature horns. It was a commercial success but marked the end of an era.
- Key Tracks: “Baby, What a Big Surprise” (#4 US), “Take Me Back to Chicago”
- Notable Facts: Reached #6 on the Billboard 200, certified platinum in 1977.
10. Hot Streets (1978)
- Overview: The first album without Terry Kath, Hot Streets introduced guitarist Donnie Dacus and a new logo-focused cover. Produced by Phil Ramone, it leaned toward pop but struggled to match earlier successes.
- Key Tracks: “Alive Again” (#14 US), “No Tell Lover”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #12 on the Billboard 200, certified platinum in 1978.
11. Chicago 13 (1979)
- Overview: Continuing with Phil Ramone, Chicago 13 explored funk and disco influences, reflecting the era’s trends. It was less commercially successful, lacking a Top 40 hit.
- Key Tracks: “Street Player,” “Mama Take”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #21 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
12. Chicago XIV (1980)
- Overview: Produced by Tom Dowd, Chicago XIV minimized the horn section, focusing on pop and rock. It was a commercial low point, leading to Columbia Records dropping the band.
- Key Tracks: “Thunder and Lightning,” “Song for You”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #71 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
13. Chicago 16 (1982)
- Overview: With new producer David Foster and Warner Bros. Records, Chicago 16 embraced power ballads and synthesizers. Bill Champlin joined, adding vocals and keyboards, revitalizing the band’s chart presence.
- Key Tracks: “Hard to Say I’m Sorry/Get Away” (#1 US), “Love Me Tomorrow” (#22 US)
- Notable Facts: Reached #9 on the Billboard 200, certified gold and platinum in 1982.
14. Chicago 17 (1984)
- Overview: The band’s biggest-selling album, Chicago 17, solidified their pop ballad era with David Foster’s production. It produced four Top 20 singles, cementing their 1980s comeback.
- Key Tracks: “You’re the Inspiration” (#3 US), “Hard Habit to Break” (#3 US), “Stay the Night” (#16 US)
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200, certified six-times platinum in 1997.
15. Chicago 18 (1986)
- Overview: Post-Peter Cetera, Chicago 18 featured Jason Scheff on vocals and bass. Produced by David Foster, it continued the pop ballad trend with a modernized sound.
- Key Tracks: “Will You Still Love Me?” (#3 US), “If She Would Have Been Faithful…” (#17 US)
- Notable Facts: Reached #35 on the Billboard 200, certified gold in 1986.
16. Chicago 19 (1988)
- Overview: Produced by Ron Nevison and Chas Sanford, Chicago 19 delivered polished pop-rock with new guitarist Dawayne Bailey. It marked a return to chart-topping success.
- Key Tracks: “Look Away” (#1 US), “I Don’t Wanna Live Without Your Love” (#3 US)
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #37 on the Billboard 200, certified platinum in 1989.
17. Twenty 1 (1991)
- Overview: Featuring new drummer Tris Imboden, Twenty 1 struggled commercially but maintained the band’s pop-rock sound. It was their last album with Warner Bros. for over a decade.
- Key Tracks: “Chasin’ the Wind” (#39 US), “Explain It to My Heart”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #66 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
18. Night & Day: Big Band (1995)
- Overview: A departure, Night & Day: Big Band covered jazz standards by artists like Duke Ellington, with guest appearances by the Gipsy Kings and Aerosmith’s Joe Perry. It honored Chicago’s jazz roots.
- Key Tracks: “Chicago,” “Caravan”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #90 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
19. Chicago XXV: The Christmas Album (1998, reissued with six new tracks added as What’s It Gonna Be, Santa? in 2003)
- Overview: Chicago’s first Christmas album, later reissued as What’s It Gonna Be, Santa? in 2003 with additional tracks. It featured holiday classics and originals, showcasing their versatility.
- Key Tracks: “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!,” “Little Drummer Boy”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #47 on the Billboard Top Holiday Albums, no RIAA certification.
20. Chicago XXX (2006)
- Overview: Produced by Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, Chicago XXX was their first new studio album in 15 years. It leaned into adult contemporary with digital availability.
- Key Tracks: “Feel,” “Love Will Come Back”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #41 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
21. Chicago XXXII: Stone of Sisyphus (2008)
- Overview: Recorded in 1993 but shelved by Reprise Records, Stone of Sisyphus was released by Rhino Records. It marked a return to horn-driven jazz-rock, reflecting their 1970s style.
- Key Tracks: “The Pull,” “Bigger Than Elvis”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #122 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
22. Chicago XXXIII: O Christmas Three (2011)
- Overview: Another Christmas album, produced by Phil Ramone, featured guest artist Dolly Parton. It blended originals and holiday standards, continuing their festive output.
- Key Tracks: “Wonderful Christmas Time,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #170 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
23. Chicago XXXV: The Nashville Sessions (2013)
- Overview: A re-recording of classic tracks with a Nashville twist, The Nashville Sessions offered fresh takes on hits, reflecting the band’s adaptability.
- Key Tracks: “25 or 6 to 4,” “Make Me Smile”
- Notable Facts: Limited release, no significant Billboard charting.
24. Chicago XXXVI: Now (2014)
- Overview: Chicago XXXVI: Now featured original material, blending modern production with their classic horn sound. It was a return to new music after years of compilations.
- Key Tracks: “Now,” “Naked in the Garden of Allah”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #151 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
25. Chicago XXXVII: Chicago Christmas (2019)
- Overview: The band’s fourth Christmas album emphasized original holiday songs, showcasing their songwriting creativity. It continued their holiday music tradition.
- Key Tracks: “All Over the World,” “Sleigh Ride”
- Notable Facts: Peaked at #123 on the Billboard 200, no RIAA certification.
26. Chicago XXXVIII: Born for This Moment (2022)
- Overview: The latest in Chicago albums in order as of August 2025, Born for This Moment featured new vocalist Neil Donell and a mix of pop-rock and ballads. It reflected the band’s resilience amid lineup changes.
- Key Tracks: “If This Is Goodbye,” “Firecracker”
- Notable Facts: No significant Billboard charting, no RIAA certification.
All Chicago Albums in Order of Release Date
Studio albums:
1. The Chicago Transit Authority — April 28, 1969
2. Chicago — January 26, 1970
3. Chicago III — January 11, 1971
4. Chicago V — July 10, 1972
5. Chicago VI — June 25, 1973
6. Chicago VII — March 11, 1974
7. Chicago VIII — March 24, 1975
8. Chicago X — June 14, 1976
9. Chicago XI — September 12, 1977
10. Hot Streets — October 2, 1978
11. Chicago 13 — August 13, 1979
12. Chicago XIV — July 21, 1980
13. Chicago 16 — June 7, 1982
14. Chicago 17 — May 14, 1984
15. Chicago 18 — September 29, 1986
16. Chicago 19 — June 20, 1988
17. Twenty 1 — January 29, 1991
18. Night & Day: Big Band — May 23, 1995
19. Chicago XXV: The Christmas Album Reissued as: What’s It Gonna Be, Santa? (2003). — August 25, 1998
20. Chicago XXX — March 21, 2006
21. Chicago XXXII: Stone of Sisyphus — June 17, 2008
22. Chicago XXXIII: O Christmas Three — October 4, 2011
23. Chicago XXXV: The Nashville Sessions — April 26, 2013
24. Chicago XXXVI: Now — July 4, 2014
25. Chicago XXXVII: Chicago Christmas — October 11, 2019
26. Chicago XXXVIII: Born for This Moment — July 15, 2022
Why Chicago’s Discography Matters
Chicago’s Chicago band discography spans over five decades, reflecting their evolution from jazz-rock innovators to pop ballad hitmakers. Their early albums, like Chicago Transit Authority, set a new standard for rock with horns, influencing countless bands. By the 1980s, hits like “You’re the Inspiration” appealed to broader audiences, cementing their mainstream legacy. Their ability to adapt while retaining their signature sound has kept them relevant, with Chicago album release dates marking key shifts in music trends. From Grammy wins to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Chicago’s discography remains a cornerstone of American music.
FAQs About Chicago Albums
How Many Studio Albums Has Chicago Released?
As of August 2025, Chicago has released 26 studio albums, from Chicago Transit Authority (1969) to Chicago XXXVIII: Born for This Moment (2022).
What Is Chicago’s Best-Selling Album?
Chicago 17 (1984) is their best-selling album, certified six-times platinum by the RIAA, driven by hits like “You’re the Inspiration” and “Hard Habit to Break.”
Are There Any Live Albums or Compilations Worth Checking Out?
Yes, Chicago at Carnegie Hall (1971) is a landmark live album, and The Very Best of: Only the Beginning (2002) is a comprehensive compilation for new fans.
What Is the Difference Between Chicago Transit Authority and Later Albums?
Chicago Transit Authority (1969) is a jazz-rock double album with experimental tracks, while later albums like Chicago 17 shifted to polished pop ballads, reflecting lineup changes and market trends.
Conclusion:
Exploring Chicago albums in order reveals a remarkable journey from jazz-rock pioneers to pop-rock legends. From the groundbreaking Chicago Transit Authority to the modern Born for This Moment, their discography showcases versatility and enduring appeal. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, this guide to the Chicago albums list offers a roadmap to their legacy. Share your favorite Chicago album in the comments, stream their music on platforms like Spotify, or dive deeper into their story on Chicago’s official website!
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