Chicago Founding Member Robert Lamm Explores Creative Side During COVID Lockdown, Resulting in New Album Born For This Moment
Robert Lamm, founding member of the iconic band Chicago, took advantage of the COVID-19 lockdown to tap into his creative side. Alongside his wife of 30 years, Joy Kopko, Lamm retreated to Southern California, where they spent months in seclusion. For Lamm, this break from touring presented an unexpected opportunity to delve deeper into his artistic abilities.
The singer and keyboardist revealed that he anticipated a lengthy hiatus, but he never anticipated just how long it would be. So, he found solace in his little studio, sitting down at the piano to play. It was during these sessions that Lamm began exploring the ideas he had accumulated over the years. He also contemplated the possibility of collaborating with other musicians.
Lamm reached out to old friends and even made some new ones as he embarked on this creative journey. Utilizing file sharing, he discovered the joy of collaboration from a distance. That kind of really became my everyday thing, Lamm explained. It was so much fun and such an old process of sitting down and finding out what is there — what is it that I have to say?
One of his collaborations caught the attention of Jim Peterik, another founding member of a horn-driven band, The Ides of March, and later Survivor. The duo’s partnership intrigued BMG producer Joe Thomas, known for his work with Brian Wilson and Dave Matthews Band. Thomas believed Lamm’s newfound songs had the potential to secure a label deal for the band. This unexpected turn of events surprised Lamm, who is now 78 years old.
Lamm initially didn’t plan on recording these songs with Chicago, but when the opportunity arose, he decided to ask the band. To his surprise, the album, Born For This Moment, came to fruition. Lamm admitted that they believed their days of capturing the interest of record companies had passed. Nevertheless, this album proved otherwise.
When it comes to including the new songs in their live shows, Lamm emphasized the band’s commitment to their loyal fans. Being a legacy band, they understand the importance of taking care of their audience’s expectations. I know when I go to a show, I want to hear the songs that I’m familiar with, Lamm added. While the band embraces their new material, they also understand the value of performing the classics.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 lockdown provided Robert Lamm with the time and space to explore his creative side. This led to a collaboration with Jim Peterik and the creation of an album that piqued the interest of BMG producer Joe Thomas. The release of Born For This Moment proved that Chicago still has much to offer musically, captivating fans with their timeless sound while still honoring their legendary hits.
