The Sound of a New Era: Chicago’s “Beginnings”
When Chicago released “Beginnings” in 1969 as part of their debut album, they weren’t just introducing a song—they were announcing a new sound. Blending rock, jazz, and soulful brass, the band brought something fresh to the music scene, a style that would define them and influence countless others. “Beginnings” captures that spirit perfectly. With its infectious rhythm, intricate horn section, and laid-back vibe, it feels like a slow build, mirroring the idea of something new and promising unfolding.
Written by the band’s trombonist Robert Lamm, the song speaks to that universal feeling of being at the start of something meaningful, particularly in love. As Lamm croons, “Only the beginning, only just the start,” listeners are swept into the optimistic, easy-going energy of the track. And yet, the song doesn’t rush. It takes its time, weaving layers of instrumentation into a rich tapestry, building toward a jubilant, extended instrumental outro that shows off the band’s musical chops.
Though it wasn’t an instant hit upon its initial release, “Beginnings” has become one of Chicago’s signature songs, appreciated for its timelessness and artistry. It’s a track that reminds us that sometimes, the journey is just as beautiful as the destination, and the beginnings of something new—whether a relationship or a band—can feel full of endless possibility.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Robert Lamm]
When I’m with you, it doesn’t matter where we are
Or what we’re doing, I’m with you, that’s all that matters
Time passes much too quickly when we’re together laughing
I wish I could sing it to you, oh no
I wish I could sing it to you
[Chorus: Robert Lamm, with bandmates]
Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh (Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh)
Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh (Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh)
Mostly I’m silent
Mmm, silent la la la la la
Never think of bad words to say
[Verse 2: Robert Lamm]
When I kiss you, I feel a thousand different feelings
The color of chills all over my body
And when I feel them, I quickly try to decide which one
I should try to put into words, oh no
Try to put into words
[Chorus: Robert Lamm, with bandmates]
Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh (Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh)
Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh (Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh)
Mostly I’m silent
Silent la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la
Silent
[Verse 3: Robert Lamm]
Only the beginning of what I want to feel forever, yeah
Oh no whoa
Yes, only the beginning of what I want to feel forever
Only the beginning, only just the start, yeah
I’ve got to get you into my life
Got to get you next to me, yeah
Only the beginning, only just the start
[Interlude]
Hey hey hey hey hey hey hey hey
Mm hmm mm mm mm
[Instrumental]
[Outro: All]
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning, only the beginning
Only the beginning