The addition of Bill Champlin more than compensated for the void created by the near absence of Chicago co-founder Robert Lamm. The Bay-area musician provided a vocal presence with a grit similar to the late Terry Kath and a versatility to compliment Peter Cetera.
The vocal harmonies missing from Chicago XIV return for Champlin’s debut on 1982’s Chicago 16. His two-album stint with Peter Cetera, while brief by Chicago standards, set up a vocal interplay which has yet to be equaled.
“Sonny Think Twice,” Champlin’s only writing contribution to this album, demonstrates how much Chicago had changed for the better. The song, co-written with Danny Seraphine, is a vehicle for Cetera’s voice – and the result is a gem among gems. “Sonny Think Twice” is funky and powerful. Despite David Foster’s Moog bass, the song has heft, and Seraphine’s in-the-pocket playing is entirely at home in this setting.
The Foster-played Fender Rhodes and subtle electric guitar further the R&B feel. “Sonny Think Twice” also features one of the most robust horn arrangements on Chicago 16, with James Pankow effectively utilizing the tenor sax and flute from Walt Parazaider.
The center of all this audio goodness is Bill Champlin’s husky and forceful lead vocal. Part Lou Rawls and part Stevie Wonder, with a mixture of pot and whiskey, Champlin makes the listener want to hear more. The backing vocal blend with Cetera sends this song over the top.
Enjoy this brilliant slice of Chicago history. It didn’t last too much longer.
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