Long before Chicago became arena mainstays, the horn-driven rock group received one of the most surreal invitations of their early career—from none other than Jimi Hendrix.
In 1969, the band was still performing as Chicago Transit Authority, building buzz with a sound that blended rock energy and a powerful brass section. During a recent appearance on the Broken Record podcast, founding members Lee Loughnane and Jimmy Pankow recalled the moment Hendrix personally asked them to join his tour.
The encounter happened backstage at the Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles, where Chicago was opening for blues legend Albert King. While waiting to return to the stage, a knock at the dressing room door revealed Hendrix himself—an unexpected and almost unreal moment for the young band.
Though Chicago idolized Hendrix and often slipped covers like “Purple Haze” and “Foxy Lady” into their live sets, they were stunned to learn he already knew their music. According to Pankow, Hendrix praised the band’s guitarist and described their horn section as sounding unified and powerful before asking if they wanted to hit the road with him.
The band’s response was immediate and enthusiastic—and soon after, Chicago found themselves opening Hendrix’s summer tour. Pankow said the opportunity helped launch their professional trajectory, giving them lasting momentum in the music industry.
Behind the scenes, Hendrix came across as reserved and thoughtful, a contrast to his explosive onstage persona. Chicago guitarist Terry Kath initially felt intimidated, but over time the two musicians bonded, exchanging ideas and mutual admiration.
There was even informal discussion of a potential collaboration between Hendrix and Chicago—an idea that never materialized. Hendrix died in 1970 at age 27, while Kath passed away in 1978, leaving behind one of rock’s great what-if scenarios.
SOURCE: Ultimate Classic Rock
