Those reports about Peter Cetera rejoining Chicago for the group’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in April were apparently premature.
Keyboardist Robert Lamm tells Billboard that he spoke out of turn to Radio.com when he said that Cetera — who left the band in 1985 to pursue a solo career — would sing though not necessarily play bass with Chicago on April 8 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. “I’ve mistakenly said Cetera would be playing,” Lamm said via e-mail. “He has emphatically declined. My email exchanges with Cetera were misinterpreted by me, and I’ve apologized to him, and likewise apologize to the music press community and fans.”
Cetera’s representatives have not responded to Billboard’s inquiries about whether he would be attending the ceremony.
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Cetera sang lead on Chicago favorites such as “25 or 6 to 4,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” and “Just You ‘n’ Me” and shared vocals on “Saturday in the Park” and the two-part “Dialogue.” He also wrote hits such as “Wishing You Were Here,” “If You Leave Me Now” and “Baby, What a Big Surprise.” He released his self-titled first solo album in 1981 while still in the band. He continues to perform but has not yet commented on Chicago’s Rock Hall induction, which will include the band’s seven original members.
Trumpeter Lee Loughnane told Billboard recently that he would welcome the chance to play with Cetera again, noting “That sounds fine to me. I haven’t spoken with Peter in awhile, but if he wants to come sing with us, come on, baby! I’m ready. We’re still playing the tunes. I think he is, too, so we should know the material.”
Drummer Danny Seraphine, who left Chicago in 1994, also hasn’t commented on the induction news, nor has he confirmed whether or not he’ll join the band at the ceremony.