Gary Gershoff/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of FameTwo years ago, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Thursday night in New York City, Chicago members Robert Lamm and James Pankow were each inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Chicago’s celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, but Lamm told reporters they’re not ready to call it quits.
“At a certain point in your career, you start getting these lifetime achievement awards, [and] you think maybe it’s the universe telling you you need to stop,” Lamm laughed. “But in spite of that, we find that in our 50th year, we’re going stronger than ever.”
“We’re just pinching ourselves with this incredible ride,” added Pankow. “We’re looking forward to the next 50 years and we’re taking the fans with us.”
In fact, Pankow gave the fans credit for the honor, saying, “It’s about these people, these wonderful listeners who embrace this music and give life to it. And the Songwriters Hall of Fame is the ultimate validation for that.”
The two men were inducted by Train singer Pat Monahan, who also performed Chicago’s hit “Just You ‘N Me,” written by Pankow.
Other inductees Thursday night included legendary Motown founder Berry Gordy, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, the songwriting and production team of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and Max Martin, who’s written more Billboard Hot 100 #1 hits than anyone except John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
In addition, pop star Ed Sheeran and Broadway and Disney composer Alan Menken were honored with special awards at the ceremony.
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