Would Jason Scheff Rejoin Chicago? Interview

Summary

In this interview, Jason Scheff, former Chicago bassist and vocalist, reflects on his departure from the band to prioritize family, especially after personal tragedies, including the loss of his stepson. He shares deep gratitude for the band's support during these difficult times. Scheff also talks about reuniting with Doors members Robbie Krieger and John Densmore for a special performance, singing 'Riders on the Storm' and 'LA Woman,' using his father's amp from the original recordings. He expresses amazement at his career, which spans collaborations with legendary bands like Chicago, The Doors, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

Takeaways

• 🙂 Jason Scheff prioritizes family over career opportunities, especially after personal tragedies, like losing his stepson.
• 😔 His decision to leave Chicago was motivated by the need to support his wife during difficult times, including the passing of her parents.
• 😌 Scheff is grateful to the members of Chicago for understanding and supporting his decision to step away for his family.
• 😢 He feels validated in his choice, especially after the loss of his stepson, as it allowed him to be present for his wife.
• 🎤 Jason Scheff was asked by Robbie Krieger of The Doors to perform with him and John Densmore, playing iconic songs like 'LA Woman' and 'Riders on the Storm.'
• 😮 Scheff was honored to be asked to sing, especially using Jim Morrison's old microphone and his father's amplifier, which was used on The Doors' *LA Woman* album.
• 🎬 They recorded this performance to be shown before the re-release of The Doors’ 1968 Hollywood Bowl film.
• 🎸 Scheff has been part of legendary bands and collaborations, including Chicago, The Doors, Earth, Wind & Fire, and even Kiss.
• 👍 Despite not rejoining Chicago, Jason Scheff remains supportive of the band and praises their recent music.
• 📢 The interviewer encourages viewers to support Scheff’s current project, Generation Radio, and to share and engage with the video content.

Q & A

Why did Jason Scheff leave Chicago?

Jason Scheff left Chicago to take care of his family, particularly during a period when his wife was losing her parents and later when they tragically lost their stepson.

How did Jason feel about leaving the band to prioritize his family?

Jason felt that he was doing the right thing by prioritizing his family, even though it was a difficult decision. He appreciated that some band members understood and supported his decision.

What tragedy did Jason and his family experience after he left the band?

Jason and his wife tragically lost their stepson, whom Jason had raised since he was four years old, a few years after leaving the band.

What significant event confirmed to Jason that he made the right decision to leave the band?

When Jason received a call about his stepson’s passing while being close to his wife rather than thousands of miles away, it confirmed for him that he made the right decision to be there for his family.

Has Jason Scheff remained active in music after leaving Chicago?

Yes, Jason Scheff has continued to perform and work on musical projects, including performing with members of The Doors for a special recording.

What role did Jason Scheff play in a project involving members of The Doors?

Jason was invited by Robbie Krieger and John Densmore to perform ‘Riders on the Storm’ and ‘LA Woman’ for a special project, singing and playing with equipment used by The Doors.

What personal connection does Jason have to The Doors' 'LA Woman' album?

Jason's father played on The Doors' 'LA Woman' album, and Jason even used his father’s amplifier during the special recording session with members of The Doors.

How did Jason feel about singing with equipment used by The Doors?

Jason found it surreal and eerie to sing using Jim Morrison’s old microphone, and to play with his father's amplifier, adding a unique emotional layer to the experience.

What was the context for the recording session with The Doors members?

The recording session was part of a pre-film recording for the re-release of the 1968 Doors concert at the Hollywood Bowl. It was shown at the Mann’s Chinese Theater.

What notable bands has Jason Scheff been involved with aside from Chicago?

Besides Chicago, Jason Scheff has worked with members of The Doors, Earth, Wind & Fire, and even performed with KISS, reflecting his diverse musical career.