Illinois Makes Some Noise

We continue our Music of the States series with a look at one of the musical meccas of the Midwest, famous for its role in developing many artists and styles.

There’s no possible way to cover every kind of sound that’s come out of Illinois in this small space, so we’ll settle for a quick introduction to just a few different styles (and remember that you can check out more in our Hear the Music and Extended Play sections for February 2016). First, Chicago blues, in the intimidating form of Chester Burnett, better known to the world as Howlin’ Wolf. This live performance of his classic “Smokestack Lightning” dates back to 1964. That’s fellow blues legend Willie Dixon playing upright bass behind the Wolf.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09j6vMdKi3E

Next, soul great Curtis Mayfield performing the title track of his Superfly album in 1973.

And here’s a little disco/funk Chicago-style, courtesy of Earth, Wind & Fire (led by the late Maurice White) and their 1978 hit “September.” Great outfits, right?

From the very same year comes a clip of new Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Cheap Trick, performing “Surrender” on The Midnight Special.

Last but not least, a taste of something slightly more modern: Wilco’s “Impossible Germany,” recorded live in 2008 for their Ashes of American Flags DVD. Leader Jeff Tweedy wrote the song and sings it, but lead guitarist Nels Cline puts on the biggest show here.