Chuck Berry and Chicago’s Chess Records Go Together Like Rock And Roll

Chuck Berry in 1958, posing with his Gibson hollow-body electric guitar.
Chuck Berry in 1958, posing with his Gibson hollow-body electric guitar.
Chuck Berry in 1958, posing with his Gibson hollow-body electric guitar.
Chuck Berry in 1958, posing with his Gibson hollow-body electric guitar.

Chuck Berry and Chicago’s Chess Records Go Together Like Rock And Roll

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Rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry passed away Saturday at the age of 90. The pioneer and father of Rock and Roll, he left an enduring legacy to music and helped define a genre. Some of his biggest hits were “Maybellene,” “Roll Over, Beethoven,” and “Johnny B. Goode” — all of which he recorded in Chicago for Chess Records. 

The recording company was home to a roster of legends that included Etta James, Buddy Guy, and the Four Tops. Introduced to Chess Records through his pal and fellow musician Muddy Waters, Berry’s collaboration with the record label would solidify his impact on music and his connection to Chicago. Morning Shift talks to Chicago Tribune music critic and Sound Opinions co-host Greg Kot about Chuck Berry’s ties to Chicago.