Lou Pardini

Lou Pardini

Photo of Lou Pardini, playing keyboards at a live concert

Lou Pardini, playing keyboards at a 2013 Chicago concert
Background information
Genres Progressive rock, jazz fusion, soft rock
Occupation(s) Musician
Associated acts Chicago
Website Official personal website
Official Chicago site
Official Myspace
Notable instruments
Electronic keyboard

Lou Pardini is an American Grammy-nominated keyboardist, songwriter and vocalist who is now best known as a member of the rock band Chicago. He is known for his work with notable musicians such as Stevie Wonder, Santana, Elton John, Peabo Bryson, Earth, Wind, & Fire and The Doobie Brothers, and he has written hit songs for Patti Austin, Kenny G, The Temptations, and more. His Grammy-nominated song "Just to See Her", recorded by Smokey Robinson, also won Robinson his first ever Grammy for the Best Male R&B Vocal performance. The song "What Might Have Been" recorded by Pardini on his solo album titled Live and Let Live has also been a popular favorite in Asia, particularly in the Philippines and Japan, and also in Europe.

As a composer and artist, Pardini's credits include a library of music featured on TV and film such as Romance and Cigarettes, written and directed by John Turturro and starring Kate Winslet and James Gandolfini, and the movie Blue, directed by Ryan Minningham.

In August 2009, Pardini answered Bill Champlin's departure as keyboardist and vocalist in the multi-platinum band, Chicago.[1]

It's a huge honor to be a member of a band that I've loved for so many years ... The first time I found myself on stage actually performing Beginnings with the real Chicago, I had an out-of-body experience. I've worked with many great artists and musicians, but it’s another thing entirely to be a part of a legend.

— Lou Pardini[2]

References

  1. Payne, Ed (August 11, 2009). "Musician Bill Champlin leaves Chicago". CNN.com. CNN. Retrieved May 4, 2013. Lou Pardini, a Grammy-nominated keyboardist who has played with Stevie Wonder and Santana, will replace Champlin, according to Chicago's management.
  2. "EXCLUSIVE: A Revealing Conversation With Lou Pardini of the Legendary Band Chicago". April 11, 2013. Retrieved May 4, 2013. It's a huge honor to be a member of a band that I've loved for so many years ... The first time I found myself on stage actually performing Beginnings with the real Chicago, I had an out-of-body experience. I've worked with many great artists and musicians, but it’s another thing entirely to be a part of a legend.