Chicago – “Make Me Smile”
In the pantheon of classic rock, Chicago’s “Make Me Smile” stands out as a quintessential track that captures the band’s unique fusion of rock, jazz, and brass elements. Written by James Pankow, one of the founding members and trombonist of the band, the song features the distinctive vocals of Terry Kath, whose powerful and soulful delivery elevates the track to legendary status. Originally part of Pankow’s ambitious “Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon,” a seven-part suite featured on the band’s second album, Chicago (commonly referred to as Chicago II), “Make Me Smile” marked a significant moment in the band’s career, both artistically and commercially.
Released as a single in March 1970, “Make Me Smile” became Chicago’s first Top 10 hit, peaking at number nine on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. This achievement was not just a breakthrough for the song itself, but also reignited interest in the band’s earlier works, bringing newfound attention to their debut album and earlier singles that had not initially gained widespread recognition. The success of “Make Me Smile” served as a pivotal moment, establishing Chicago as a major force in the rock world.
Musically, “Make Me Smile” is a tour de force. It is both intricate and accessible, with Pankow’s complex arrangements blending seamlessly with Kath’s emotive guitar work and the band’s tight rhythm section. The song’s structure is a testament to Chicago’s ability to push the boundaries of traditional rock, incorporating elements of classical music with their signature brass sound. The radio edit of the song, which paired it with a segment of “Now More Than Ever,” another part of the same suite, created a concise and powerful version that resonated with a wide audience.
Critics at the time were quick to recognize the song’s appeal. Cash Box praised it for its “audience-shattering magnetism,” noting the “brisk motion and a fine instrumental styling.” Billboard called it a “solid beat rocker” that was “a mover from start to finish, loaded with discotheque appeal.” These reviews highlighted the song’s infectious energy and its potential to captivate listeners, a prediction that proved accurate as “Make Me Smile” became a staple on radio playlists and in record collections across the country.
The enduring legacy of “Make Me Smile” is evident in its continued popularity. The song has been featured on numerous greatest hits collections, including the 2002 compilation The Very Best of Chicago: Only the Beginning, where a new edit restored some of the original elements that were cut from the radio version. This version reintroduces the full intro, guitar solo, and outro, allowing listeners to experience the song in a form closer to its original conception.
For many fans, “Make Me Smile” is more than just a hit single; it is a defining moment in Chicago’s illustrious career. It captures the essence of what made the band so revolutionary at the time—an ability to blend genres, create complex yet catchy songs, and deliver performances that resonate with emotion and technical prowess. Even decades after its release, “Make Me Smile” continues to do just that, bringing joy to listeners and solidifying its place as a cornerstone of classic rock.
