Written by: Jack Thompson

Terry Kath: The Guitar Virtuoso of Chicago

Terry Kath, a founding member of the iconic rock band Chicago, is renowned for his exceptional guitar skills and soulful vocals. As the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band, he played a pivotal role in shaping their distinctive sound and contributed to their early success.

Early Life and Career

Kath was born on January 31, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, to a musical family. He was exposed to music from an early age and began playing instruments in his teens, including the drums and banjo. He eventually settled on the guitar, which became his instrument of choice.

Before forming Chicago, Kath played bass in various bands in the mid-1960s. However, it was his guitar playing that earned him recognition and admiration from his peers and fans alike.

Guitar Style and Influences

Kath's guitar playing was characterized by his unique blend of rock, blues, and jazz influences. He was often praised by his bandmates and other musicians for his innovative style, which was reminiscent of Ray Charles.

One of the most notable admirers of Kath's guitar work was Jimi Hendrix, who cited him as one of his favorite guitarists. Hendrix even went so far as to call Kath the "best guitarist in the universe."

Chicago and Success

Kath was a key member of Chicago, contributing to their early success with his guitar playing and lead vocals on hit singles like "Make Me Smile" and "Colour My World." His collaboration with fellow band members Robert Lamm and Peter Cetera resulted in some of the band's most iconic songs.

Chicago's unique sound, which blended rock, jazz, and pop, was largely due to Kath's innovative guitar playing and vocal style. The band's early success can be attributed to Kath's contribution, which earned them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.

Personal Life and Struggles

Kath struggled with health problems and drug abuse towards the end of the 1970s. Despite his personal struggles, he continued to produce incredible music with Chicago, but unfortunately, his life was cut short in a tragic accident.

On January 23, 1978, Kath died from an unintentional self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. His death was a devastating blow to the band and his fans, but his legacy lives on through his music.

Legacy and Tributes

In the years following Kath's death, Chicago continued to pay tribute to his memory and contribution to the band. In 1978, they released the song "Alive Again," which was a memorial to Kath's musicianship.

In 1997, the band released the album The Innovative Guitar of Terry Kath, which showcased Kath's exceptional guitar playing and vocal style.

In 2016, Kath's daughter, Michelle Sinclair, released the documentary The Terry Kath Experience, which chronicled his life and Chicago's early years.

Kath's influence on rock music is still felt today, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

Instrument of Choice: Fender Telecaster

Kath was often associated with his customized Fender Telecaster, which became an iconic part of his image. The guitar was fitted with a single neck-position humbucker pickup combined with a bridge position angled single-coil pickup and decorated with numerous stickers.

This unique instrument became an integral part of Kath's sound and style, and its distinctive look has been emulated by many guitarists.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Kath's brother, Rod, played the drums and introduced him to music at an early age.
• Kath attended Taft High School in Chicago.
• He was known for his Ray Charles-influenced vocal style, which added a soulful dimension to Chicago's music.

Kath's contribution to Chicago's sound and legacy is still celebrated today, and his music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.