When we think about timeless pieces of music that transcend generations, “Make Me Smile” by Chicago undoubtedly stands out as a quintessential track. The song is part of the band’s groundbreaking 1970 album, Chicago II, which marked a significant departure from their previous work. This album, and particularly “Make Me Smile,” showcases Chicago’s unique blend of rock, jazz, and classical music, creating a sound that resonated with listeners worldwide and elevated the band to iconic status.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into the intricacies of “Make Me Smile,” exploring its place in Chicago II, the instruments and sounds that make it so special, and its lasting impact on music. We will also take a closer look at similar songs that share the same innovative spirit, giving you the chance to discover more music that pushes boundaries while remaining timeless.
The Chicago Sound: A New Direction in Chicago II
By the time Chicago released Chicago II, the band had already established a reputation for its distinctive mix of jazz, rock, and classical influences. The album followed their self-titled debut and demonstrated the band’s willingness to experiment with complex structures, sophisticated arrangements, and dynamic instrumentation. Chicago II is often regarded as a jazz-rock fusion masterpiece, and “Make Me Smile” encapsulates this genre-bending approach.
One of the defining features of this album is the melding of horns with traditional rock instrumentation, a hallmark of Chicago’s signature sound. The presence of the brass section—consisting of trumpet, trombone, and saxophone—adds a rich layer of complexity and energy to the music, while the rhythm section remains anchored by the powerful foundation of guitar, bass, and drums. Additionally, the use of keyboards and piano helps shape the mood of the piece, giving it a sense of fluidity and depth.
“Make Me Smile” was composed by the band’s trumpet player, Robert Lamm, who was responsible for many of the band’s most notable songs. The song’s memorable opening with a fast-paced piano riff immediately sets the tone for an upbeat, joyful tune. Lamm’s piano playing, combined with the intricate drumming and guitar work, creates an exhilarating environment, as if the song is constantly in motion, never slowing down. The brass section is unmistakable throughout, adding an element of brass band energy to the song, while the guitar subtly weaves in and out, providing an undercurrent of rock grit.
The Arrangement and Composition of “Make Me Smile”
One of the most captivating aspects of “Make Me Smile” is its unique structure. The song begins with a distinctive piano intro that establishes the song’s melodic theme. The piano, played with incredible precision and energy, is soon joined by the horn section, which adds a layer of excitement and drama to the piece. The rhythm section is not far behind, with bassist Peter Cetera’s driving lines and drummer Danny Seraphine’s precise beats creating an infectious groove.
As the song progresses, the arrangement shifts, and the mood evolves. The transitions are smooth yet dramatic, thanks in part to the arrangement’s thoughtful use of dynamics and contrasting sections. The brass instruments come in with bold, punchy statements, and the piano takes on a more lyrical role, playing off the brass and rhythm sections. These instrumental conversations create a sense of constant movement, much like a dialogue between different sections of the orchestra.
Lyrically, the song is a celebration of joy and freedom, with a hint of personal reflection. The recurring theme of “smile” throughout the song reinforces its positive energy, making it a powerful anthem of happiness and optimism. The chorus, with its uplifting melodies and harmonious backing vocals, is the perfect complement to the dynamic instrumental backdrop.
The Role of Instruments: Guitar, Piano, and Horns
One of the defining aspects of “Make Me Smile” is its instrumentation. The integration of guitar, piano, and horns creates a unique sonic palette that blends elements of rock, jazz, and classical music. Each instrument plays a critical role in shaping the song’s sound.
The piano, played with incredible virtuosity, is one of the standout features of the track. Its lively, syncopated rhythms drive the song forward, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. The piano’s quick runs and flourishes also serve as a bridge between sections, creating smooth transitions between the different parts of the song.
Guitarist Terry Kath’s contribution is equally significant. Known for his unique and soulful playing, Kath’s guitar work in “Make Me Smile” is both melodic and powerful. His expressive solos add an emotional depth to the song, providing a contrast to the bright, upbeat energy created by the horns and piano. His ability to seamlessly integrate his playing into the ensemble is a testament to his skill and musical intuition.
The horns in “Make Me Smile” are also integral to the song’s success. The brass section, consisting of trumpet, trombone, and saxophone, adds a layer of exuberance and drama to the piece. These instruments are often featured prominently in the song’s choruses, adding to the overall grandeur of the arrangement. The brass section’s punchy, brassy sound creates a bold and lively atmosphere, perfectly complementing the song’s upbeat lyrics.
Together, these instruments create a piece of music that is complex, energetic, and full of life. The combination of rock, jazz, and classical elements in the song’s arrangement makes it a true masterpiece of fusion, and it is easy to see why “Make Me Smile” has remained a fan favorite for decades.
The Legacy of “Make Me Smile” and Chicago’s Impact
“Make Me Smile” remains one of Chicago’s most iconic songs, and its influence extends far beyond the band’s fan base. The song’s innovative combination of rock and jazz elements helped to establish Chicago as one of the most unique and influential bands of the 1970s. It also played a key role in shaping the sound of jazz-rock fusion, a genre that would influence countless musicians in the years to come.
Chicago’s success in blending genres and pushing musical boundaries paved the way for future generations of musicians. The band’s willingness to experiment with different sounds, instruments, and arrangements helped to shape the sound of 1970s rock and beyond. Songs like “Make Me Smile” are a testament to Chicago’s ability to create complex, genre-defying music that still resonates with listeners today.
Listening Recommendations for Fans of “Make Me Smile”
If you enjoyed “Make Me Smile,” there are plenty of other songs from Chicago and beyond that embrace similar musical elements. Here are a few recommendations for further listening:
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Chicago – “25 or 6 to 4”
Another classic from Chicago, this track showcases the band’s signature fusion of rock, jazz, and brass instrumentation. The song features an unforgettable guitar riff and a tight rhythm section, paired with powerful brass sections that elevate the track. -
Blood, Sweat & Tears – “Spinning Wheel”
Like Chicago, Blood, Sweat & Tears was known for blending jazz and rock. “Spinning Wheel” is a great example of this fusion, with its brass-heavy arrangement and catchy melody. -
Steely Dan – “Reelin’ In the Years”
Steely Dan’s distinctive blend of jazz, rock, and pop makes them a natural recommendation for fans of Chicago’s jazz-rock fusion style. “Reelin’ In the Years” features tight musicianship, including sharp guitar lines and jazz-influenced solos. -
Electric Light Orchestra – “Mr. Blue Sky”
Known for their orchestral arrangements and incorporation of classical elements into rock, Electric Light Orchestra’s “Mr. Blue Sky” is a vibrant, uplifting track that shares a similar energetic spirit to “Make Me Smile.” -
The Doobie Brothers – “Listen to the Music”
With its infectious rhythm and brass instrumentation, “Listen to the Music” by The Doobie Brothers captures the same exuberant energy and rock-jazz fusion found in Chicago’s work.
Conclusion
“Make Me Smile” is more than just a song; it is a quintessential piece of music that showcases Chicago’s talent for blending jazz, rock, and classical influences. With its innovative arrangement, dynamic instrumentation, and uplifting message, the song remains a high point in Chicago’s illustrious career. The seamless integration of guitar, piano, horns, and rhythm section creates a sound that is both unique and timeless, making “Make Me Smile” a song that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Chicago or new to their music, this track is a must-listen, and it stands as one of the most defining songs of the jazz-rock fusion era.
If you love “Make Me Smile,” exploring more songs in the same vein will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for the rich tapestry of music that emerged from this period. Happy listening!