What’s the 4-1-1?
Peter Cetera joined the Chicago Transit Authority (later named Chicago) in 1967 as a bass player. He soon became one of the major songwriters and vocalist for the group, penning a majority of their hits throughout the seventies and eighties. Chicago hit a low point in the late seventies which prompted Cetera to consider a solo career. It was the video music-era that kept Chicago together (for a few more albums at least). Cetera was getting more and more exposure due to the music videos and was becoming a break out star. He released his first solo album in 1981, but stayed with Chicago in 1985. It was the following year that he released the highly successful Solitude/Solitaire.
“Big Mistake” pretty much sums up the pop-rock musical landscape at the time with its bouncing keyboard tones, melodic vocals, and powerful choruses. The guitars have that liquid sound that everyone was looking for to compliment their synths. “They Don’t Make ‘Em Like They Used To” compares a special woman to a one-of-a-kind automobile. I can see Cetera’s point here, but the sentiment seems a little corny. The addition of synthesized brass adds great texture to the track. It’s more likely than not that you bought this album for “Glory of Love.” Who can deny this touching and emotional ballad that was the theme for The Karate Kid: Part II? It fit the movie perfectly, and probably every wedding and prom that occurred that year.
“Daddy’s Girl” has one of those keyboard and bass build-ups that lead into a driving chorus section. It was another ballad that helped catapult this album up the charts; “The Next Time I Fall.” Amy Grant’s (virtually unknown in the pop circle at the time) soft tones complimented Cetera’s high-pitched melodic delivery perfectly. On “Solitude/Solitaire,” Peter struggles with thoughts of running away from the world where he could never be found. The track is commanded by a strong synthesizer presence.
Article comments
1 - Lizete Aparecida Gomes
Eu amo o Peter não admito que falem mal dele, é o melhor cantor de todos os tempos, uma voz inegualavel,escreve como ninguem , suas musicas são maravilhosas..
Ele sai do Chicago também poruqe o Lam, não queria déixa-lo com vocal principal..
2 - Katlynn Smith
I love Peter Cetera, the man, the music was undeniable. When I think of Chicago, I think of Peter Cetera and Chicago is not Chicago with Peter. Basically, to me he was Chicago. I was listening to a remake of "If You Leave Me Now," and it just didn't sound right without Peter's angelic voice. I can't believe that the band was formed way before I was born. That's really cool.
3 - Becky T.
I enjoy listening to Peter Cetera's voice, it is very unique not to mention that the man, himself is pretty cute. I also think that he is a good songwriter and composer.
4 - odel
I agree with you that the guy (PC) is good and why would he let VH1 play his songs on their interview with Chicago, a band that he left a heck long time ago. Peter did not fall off the face of the Earth, he was probably spending more time with his family. I really like the Solitude Solitare album. The lyrics are meaningful and catchy at the same time. Plus his voice is awesome. I think that you have to be fair, I mean Peter is human, should we not expect him to age? He is 60 years old, we can't expect him to be sounding like when he was 20 year old. Plus, I think it is really hard to capture an audience for 30 or some years and Peter has still done that with his great voice. I still enjoy his music and would like him to come out with more stuff.
5 - Leslie in SC
I know it pisses him off (from stuff I have read) for fans to keep yearning for him to reunite with Chicago, but really, that was a magical, UNIMITATED, relationship. I REALLY would love to see that just one time. I'd get a second mortgage to see him play bass on songs from the first few albums. It is not the same without Terry Kath, who also cannot be imitated, but I wish Peter weren't so mad. I read he said he is tired of the Chicago question, stating, 'its like talking about an ex-wife'. But we were so happy when you were together :(. Your fans are all super hot and heavy to get back with that one, honestly. We PINE for it. Come on, Peter, bring your sexy self (at any age :) around to give us all an incredible thrill.... and Bobby, et al, get over it too if there is a prob. Bring Danny back too. But I want to see the original rock god with his big steel horse in a pair of tight jeans... thumping out a hot bass line...just once more!