Only some things inspire artists to create something that has been talked about for generations. But when something does, it has to be truly epic and outstanding. The windy city Chicago is one such place that has inspired several musicians to create some top-rated songs.
Everything is awe-inspiring, from Chicago’s architecture to its culture, and there is no shortage of creativity here. Chicago rivals most other major urban centers around the world, and this was obvious when looking for songs about Chicago to include on the list for this article. Keep reading to explore the best song about the city.
Best Songs About Chicago
Whether we’re talking about the city of Chicago itself or just some amazing tracks to remember it by, here are 8 tracks to explore!
Frank Sinatra – “My Kind Of Town”
Frank Sinatra’s “My Kind Of Town” is one of the most iconic songs about Chicago. The song celebrates the city’s energy and vibrancy and has been adopted as an unofficial anthem by many Chicagoans. The song’s opening lines – “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere” – perfectly capture the city’s spirit.
The song perfectly combines Sinatra’s timeless charm, melodies, and an overview of everything that makes Chicago a great city.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpEGxHLJpK4
Sufjan Stevens – “Chicago”
There are few musicians as exciting and innovative as Sufjan Stevens. His music is often described as transcendent, and his song “Chicago” is a perfect example of this.
The song is written from the perspective of a person who is leaving the city, and it captures the feeling of nostalgia and longing that comes with leaving a place you love. The song’s lyrics are full of images of the city, and its music is both joyful and melancholy.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWX3El-slpY
“Born in Chicago” by Paul Butterfield Blues Band
The Paul Butterfield Blues Band “Born in Chicago” is a classic ode to the city of Chicago. This is among the best songs about Chicago that paints a picture of the city as a tough and gritty place full of life and energy. The band captures the essence of the town in this song, and it has become an anthem for many Chicagoans.
The song’s opening guitar riff is catchy and sets the tone for the rest of the tune. The lyrics talk about the energy and vibrancy of the city and how it can be both exhilarating and dangerous.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCjFRNWN3o4
“Chi-City” by Common feat. Kanye West
“Chi-City” by Common feat. Kanye West is a love letter to the city of Chicago. Common raps about the city’s history, culture, and people, while Kanye West provides the hook.
The song is a celebration of all things Chicago, and it’s clear that both Common and Kanye have a deep love for the city.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUzJ5R12JX8
“Chicago Bound” by Jimmy Rogers- Songs About Chicago
Jimmy Rogers was a Chicago blues singer and guitarist who was born in Mississippi but moved to Windy City in the early 1940s. He became a crucial figure in the development of the postwar Chicago blues sound. “Chicago Bound” is a classic example of his work, with its signature slide guitar licks and soulful vocals.
The song captures the sense of hope and opportunity that many African Americans felt at the time as they migrated from the rural South to the urban North in search of a better life.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaISVbeZTOY
Interesting Read: These are the worst neighborhoods in Chicago.
“Sweet Home Chicago” by Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson’s “Sweet Home Chicago” is one of the most iconic songs about Chicago. There’s something about Johnson’s voice that just oozes charisma and charm, and his guitar playing is simply impeccable. The song was initially recorded in 1936 and has been covered by many artists over the years.
The lyrics paint a picture of a city full of life and energy, and it is clear that Johnson had a great love for the city. The song has become a staple of Chicago’s musical history and is sure to put a smile on your face every time you hear it.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0rjDAeApZQ
You might also wish to checkout the Radio Room, Chicago
Chicago – “Take Me Back To Chicago”
If you’re looking for a song that captures the spirit of Chicago, then look no further than “Take Me Back To Chicago” by the band Chicago. This song is all about the city’s loveable landmarks, friendly people, and unique culture.
In the lyrics, the band sings about how much they love Chicago and how it always feels like home. They also mention some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Wrigley Field and The Bean. This song is sure to put a smile on your face and make you want to visit the Windy City as soon as possible!
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajxNLr5gz4Y
Elvis Presley – “In The Ghetto”
Elvis Presley’s “In The Ghetto” is a song about the poverty and crime in Chicago’s inner city. The lyrics describe a cycle of poverty and violence that traps residents in despair. The song was inspired by a visit Presley made to Chicago in 1966, where he saw firsthand the conditions in the city’s poorest neighborhoods.
Despite its somber lyrics, the song has an upbeat tempo and is one of Presley’s most popular recordings.
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ-r0bilzhU
Final words
Chicago is a city with a rich musical history, and its songs reflect the many facets of life in the Windy City. These songs capture the spirit of Chicago and its people, from soulful anthems about the city’s tough times to celebratory odes to its triumphs.
So, check out our list of the best songs about Chicago. Also, Chicago is home to several Karaoke bars you must check out!
