About the Song
Released in 1970, “25 or 6 to 4” quickly became one of Chicago’s most iconic songs, a staple of rock radio that showcased the band’s unique fusion of rock, jazz, and classical influences. Written by band member Robert Lamm, the song continues to captivate listeners with its powerful instrumentation, infectious melody, and ambiguous lyrics. To understand why “25 or 6 to 4” holds such a prominent place in rock history, it’s helpful to dive into the context of its creation, the band’s eclectic style, and the song’s cryptic title that has sparked endless speculation.
The Rise of Chicago: A Band Like No Other
Chicago, originally known as Chicago Transit Authority, was formed in 1967 in, unsurprisingly, the city of Chicago. From the outset, the band set itself apart with its innovative blend of rock and horn-driven jazz arrangements, something that had rarely been done on such a scale in rock music. Bands with brass sections were nothing new, but Chicago took it further by weaving these instruments into the very fabric of their songs rather than relegating them to a supporting role.
By the time they released their second album in 1970, Chicago was already experimenting with diverse sounds that included rock, jazz, classical, and even pop elements. “25 or 6 to 4” appeared on this album, commonly referred to as “Chicago II,” and quickly became one of the most enduring songs of the band’s career. Its success helped catapult Chicago into mainstream popularity and solidified their reputation as genre-bending pioneers of the early 1970s.
The Making of ‘25 or 6 to 4’
The title of the song, “25 or 6 to 4,” has been the subject of endless interpretation. Robert Lamm, the song’s primary songwriter, penned the lyrics while staying up late one night, struggling to finish the song as dawn approached. Lamm has clarified that the title simply refers to the time on the clock as he was writing: 25 or 26 minutes until 4 a.m. The lyrics capture the experience of a songwriter in the early morning hours, struggling for inspiration while facing the loneliness and surreal atmosphere that the late night often brings.
However, this explanation hasn’t stopped listeners from theorizing about hidden meanings in the lyrics and the title. Some listeners interpreted “25 or 6 to 4” as a reference to drug use, particularly LSD, given the era’s association with counterculture and psychedelics. Chicago members, including Lamm, have consistently refuted this interpretation, explaining that it’s a straightforward reference to time and the challenges of late-night creativity.
Lyrics and Mood: A Snapshot of Artistic Frustration
The lyrics of “25 or 6 to 4” vividly capture the creative struggles and tension of writing. Lines like “Waiting for the break of day” and “Searching for something to say” are direct expressions of the frustration and difficulty that artists often face when trying to come up with something meaningful. The song’s imagery—“Flashing lights against the sky” and “Staring blindly into space”—evokes a surreal, almost hallucinatory experience, but in reality, it’s simply describing the natural exhaustion that comes with staying up all night, waiting for inspiration to strike.
One of the most compelling aspects of the song is the way it merges the lyrics’ tension with the driving, aggressive rhythm of the music. The song builds with a strong, almost hypnotic guitar riff by Terry Kath that complements the brooding mood of Lamm’s lyrics. Peter Cetera’s lead vocals bring an urgency and intensity to the lyrics, while the instrumental sections allow the band’s talented horn section to shine, elevating the song from a standard rock track to something more dynamic and unique.
Musical Innovation: Rock Meets Jazz Fusion
Musically, “25 or 6 to 4” exemplifies Chicago’s groundbreaking approach to genre fusion. The song begins with an unforgettable guitar riff from Terry Kath, a guitarist often compared to legends like Jimi Hendrix for his skill and intensity. The riff repeats throughout the song, giving it a sense of forward momentum and adding to the tension described in the lyrics. The driving rhythm, combined with the precise and complex horn arrangements, creates a sound that is unmistakably Chicago.
The horn section—consisting of trumpet, trombone, and saxophone—intertwines seamlessly with the rock rhythm, adding layers of depth and texture to the song. Chicago’s distinctive sound wasn’t just rock with brass added for flavor; rather, the horns were integral to the composition, as much a part of the song’s identity as the guitar or drums. In “25 or 6 to 4,” the brass is especially prominent during the instrumental breaks, where it adds an almost cinematic quality to the music, punctuating the verses with bursts of energy and adding emotional weight to the piece.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Over the years, “25 or 6 to 4” has become one of Chicago’s most recognizable songs, regularly appearing on rock radio and being covered by numerous artists. Its unique structure and ambiguous lyrics have kept listeners coming back to it, fascinated by both its sound and its mystery. The song remains a highlight of Chicago’s live performances, where the instrumental sections are often extended, allowing each band member to showcase their skill.
In addition to its popularity with fans, “25 or 6 to 4” has also influenced countless musicians. The song’s blend of rock and jazz elements helped pave the way for other bands to experiment with similar genre-crossing sounds. It also served as an early example of how a rock band could incorporate complex musical arrangements without sacrificing accessibility, a blueprint that other bands would follow in subsequent decades.
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of ‘25 or 6 to 4’
“25 or 6 to 4” has stood the test of time, not only because of its catchy melody and unforgettable riff but also because of its enigmatic nature. Whether you listen to it as a straightforward rock song, a jazz-rock fusion piece, or a glimpse into the artistic process, it continues to offer new layers for listeners to appreciate. From its mysterious title to its powerful instrumental work, “25 or 6 to 4” remains a testament to Chicago’s creativity and their ability to blend genres in a way that was—and still is—distinctively their own.
Even decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with audiences, proving that sometimes the best music is born from sleepless nights, a ticking clock, and the search for inspiration in the early hours of the morning.
Video
Lyrics: 25 Or 6 To 4
Waiting for the break of day
Searching for something to say
Flashing lights against the sky
Giving up, I close my eyesSitting cross-legged on the floor
Twenty five or six to fourStaring blindly into space
Getting up to splash my face
Wanting just to stay awake
Wondering how much I can takeShould I try to do some more?
Twenty five or six to four
Oh yeahFeeling like I ought to sleep
Spinning room is sinking deep
Searching for something to say
Waiting for the break of dayTwenty five or six to four
Twenty five or six to four