Chess Records, a renowned recording studio located at 2120 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, is steeped in history and considered an iconic symbol of the music industry. At Chess Records, visitors can feel the electric energy that emanates from the building and immerse themselves in the captivating ambiance that resonates with the legends of blues music, including Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, Buddy Guy, Etta James, and even The Rolling Stones. The knowledgeable and passionate tour guide, Janine, adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience, sharing insider stories and showcasing iconic artifacts like Willie Dixon's bass and Bo Diddley's guitar. Chess Records is a must-visit destination for any music aficionado, offering a profound and inspiring journey through the rich history of blues music.
Reviews
It's very difficult to review such an iconic place such as Chess Records. From the moment you go in you can feel the energy of the building and almost hear the music coming out of the walls right at you. Whether it's Muddy, Willie, Buddy, The Rolling Stones Etta James or the Great Willie Dixon they've all passed through here.
Janine, who gives the tour, clearly loves her job and is a part of the fabric of the building. She is a fountain of knowledge and very pleasant to talk with. She has put her heart and soul into Chess and I really hope that it continues to be successful for her and and everyone connected.
If you don't visit then you haven't really been to Chicago.
A fantastic experience, seeing Willie Dixon's bass, Bo Diddley's guitar, so many other historic items, and especially the room where so many awesome records were recorded. Great tour by Janine, who clearly knows and loves her blues. Well worth a visit for any music fan.
After seeing STAX (very very good and hard to beat) SUN, FAME and 3614 Jackson Highway Chess was a awesome visit. Our guide was super. The story is awesome and a must for any music fan to get exposed to for a well spent hour.
Call ahead for engrossing 45 minute tour. See rotating photo exhibit (American Folkblues Festival), Muddy/Buddy/Koko Taylor memorabilia, blues artist life masks, Chess administrative offices, alternate studio with collection of Willie Dixon guitars, and actual recording studio where Fontella Bass, Muddy Waters, etc. actually recorded. Tour guide knowledgeable and professional. Small gift shop with various Chess tees & CDs from museum contributors. Cool womens t-shirts featuring titles of famous Chess songs.
Great place for the Blues. Legendary pictures and art andnarticlfacts and they have amazing artists at their events. And a wonderful community supporting the events and establishment. Well worth the visit! I will return as often as I can.
This is the historical birthplace of Rock & Roll by way of Chuck Berry. Also home of Blues Legends Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Lil' Walter, John Lee Hooker, Lighting Hopkins and Buddy Guy. One of my favorite museums!
Make sure you check out Chess Records when you're in Chicago. We received a private tour from Janine that was filled with interesting facts and history. So many historical items to see including outfits, original lyrics and never before seen pictures. Experience where the Legends made their masterpieces. Also check out the gift shop for some cool merchandise.
Checked this off my bucket list. Had an amazing time at the Chess Records office. Keith, a gentleman who volunteers his time at the historic site, gave us a tour of the facility and was beyond knowledgeable about Chess Records and those who walked through the doors. $10 tour per person, please try to also donate to the location so that they can have to funds to continue carrying on the legacy of Chess Records !
Location
2120 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States
Hours
- Monday Close
- Tuesday Close
-
Wednesday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
- Thursday Close
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Friday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
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Saturday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
- Sunday Close
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