Behind the Hits: Danny Seraphine & Bill Champlin of "Chicago"

The Behind the Hits Concert Series welcomes Music Industry royalty to the Savannah GA scene for a unique, one-night-only show!

"Chicago": A band that defined artistic and cultural expression. Through it all, their music has left an undeniable mark on society and in our every day lives, becoming a part of our routines in the past, present and undoubtedly… the future. On January 9th, Thomas Claxton’s “Behind the Hits” Concert Series takes a trip back in time, welcoming Special Guests: Danny Seraphine and Bill Champlin, two world-renowned performing artists that helped shape the music that we all know and love.

Introducing our Special Guests:

Danny Seraphine
Founding Member & Original Drummer of Chicago | Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee

As the founding drummer of the legendary rock band Chicago, Danny Seraphine helped create one of the most recognizable and influential sounds in music history. Blending the power of rock and roll with the sophistication of jazz, Latin rhythms, and big-band influences, Seraphine's innovative drumming became a defining element of Chicago's signature sound. From iconic hits like “25 or 6 to 4” and “Make Me Smile” to “Saturday in the Park” and “Beginnings,” his unmistakable style helped propel Chicago to international superstardom. As a member of the band's original lineup, Seraphine contributed to an extraordinary catalog of timeless recordings that have captivated audiences for generations, earning his place in music history with Chicago's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.Beyond his groundbreaking career with Chicago, Seraphine has continued to inspire musicians through his performances, recordings, and dedication to his craft. As the founder of the acclaimed band California Transit Authority (CTA), he has carried forward his passion for adventurous arrangements, exceptional musicianship, and electrifying live performances. Recognized as one of rock's most distinctive drummers, Seraphine brings a remarkable perspective on the creativity, personalities, and unforgettable moments behind some of the biggest songs ever recorded. His stories offer audiences a rare opportunity to experience rock history through the eyes of a musician who didn't just witness it—he helped create it.


Bill Champlin
Grammy Award-Winning Singer, Songwriter & Former Vocalist of Chicago

With one of the most powerful and soulful voices in rock music, Bill Champlin has spent decades leaving an unforgettable mark on the music industry. Best known for his remarkable tenure as a lead vocalist, keyboardist, and guitarist with the legendary band Chicago, Champlin helped define the group's enormously successful sound throughout the 1980s and beyond. His distinctive, emotionally charged vocals took center stage on massive hits including “Look Away,” “Hard Habit to Break,” and “I Don't Wanna Live Without Your Love,” helping introduce Chicago's music to an entirely new generation of fans. But Champlin's extraordinary musical legacy extends far beyond his work with Chicago. A two-time Grammy-winning songwriter, he co-wrote the timeless classics “After the Love Has Gone,” made famous by Earth, Wind & Fire, and “Turn Your Love Around,” recorded by George Benson—two songs that cemented his reputation as one of popular music's most accomplished composers.Long before joining Chicago, Champlin was already a respected force in the music world as the founder of the influential San Francisco band Sons of Champlin, earning admiration for his exceptional vocal ability, songwriting, and musicianship. Throughout his remarkable career, he has collaborated with an impressive collection of legendary artists, including Elton John, Boz Scaggs, Patti LaBelle, and countless others. Equally at home behind a microphone, keyboard, or guitar, Champlin possesses a rare understanding of what transforms a great song into a timeless hit. From the recording studios to the world's biggest stages, his experiences offer a fascinating glimpse into the artistry, collaborations, and untold stories behind some of the most beloved recordings in music history.

We’re beyond proud to welcome these celebrated artists to this Concert Series event and look forward to sharing the evening with you all! You never know what surprises may be in store for this amazing night… See you there!