Despite their many lineup changes, Chicago have stayed true to their identity as a "rock and roll band with horns." Their first three releases—all double albums—featured a diverse range of jazz, pop and progressive influences, often with political undertones. But they also had a knack for concise hit singles, and 1970's “Make Me Smile” began a long run of chart successes. They almost disbanded after the death of guitarist Terry Kath in '78, but they rebounded in the ‘80s with a slicker, ballad-heavy approach, and have remained popular on the touring circuit.