1950s Chicago was pulsating with the sound of rock 'n' roll, and Chicago Rocks Volume 1 CD shines a long-overdue spotlight on this scene which was gritty, passionate, and unmistakably its own. Between 1956 and 1963, Chicago developed a sound that blended rockabilly, doo-wop, and rhythm & blues into something truly distinctive. Young musicians played roller rinks, clubs, and high school hops, driven by the energy of a new youth culture. This 35 track collection finally tells their stories through their songs, many long forgotten and others appearing here on CD for the first time ever. You'll find Ral Donner, Chicago’s answer to Elvis Presley, delivering heartfelt vocals and magnetic charisma. There's Eddy “The Chief” Clearwater, the South Side’s own Chuck Berry, captured in his early rockin’ prime. Then there's Ron Haydock & The Boppers, Chicago’s cult rockabilly icons with boundless energy. And there are many more local rock 'n' roll heroes such as Steve King, Tony Bellus, Tobin Matthews, Phil Orsi, and Ronnie Rice, who helped define the city’s emerging rock identity despite never gaining national recognition. The music is accompanied by meticulously researched liner notes, rare photos, and first-hand recollections that bring this lost era vividly back to life.
