The Chi-Lites
At the forefront of the 70s R&B Chicago scene, The Chi-Lites broke away from the gritty sound associated with the Windy City by creating their very own – smooth and distinct – which put Chicago on the R&B map, and brought the band a string of top ten hits, gold singles, and gold albums. During the 70s, the group released 11 Top Ten R&B singles which ranged from smooth ballads to socially conscious protest songs. In 2000, The Chi-Lites were inducted into the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, and in 2003, the group was featured in the documentary, Only The Strong Survive, released by Miramax. Their song, “Are You My Woman,” is sampled and featured in the GRAMMY award winning Beyoncé track “Crazy In Love” featuring Jay-Z. The rapper also featured The Chi-Lites’ “That’s How Long I Love You” in his song “December 4,” which hit #1 on Billboard.