A Resolution
to be adopted by The City Council
ofthe City of Chicago», Illinois
Proclamation Honoring Marshall Thompson
WHEREAS, the legendary Chi-Lites formed in 1959 in Chicago, Illinois, imbued with the tradition of doo-wop and street corner harmony of the band with their leader, Marshall Thompson, and the remaining Chi-Lites; songwriter and lead singer Eugene Record, Robert "Squirrel" Lester and Creadel "Red" Jones. Known first in the early 1960's as the "Hi-Li tes," the group changed their name to the "Chi-Lites" in 1964 to pay tribute to their hometown of Chicago; and
WHEREAS, the Chi-Lites balanced fierce social activism with sweet romantic ballads scored eleven Top Ten Rhythm & Blues hits from 1969 to 1974. "Have You Seen Her" and "Oh Girl", they later became a Ul single on the Billboard Magazine Hot 100 on 27 May 1972;. Although American pop success eluded the Chi-Lites' later work, outside of the United States in the United Kingdom they hit the Top 5 with 'It's Time For Love' (1975) and 'You Don V Have To Go' (1976). Throughout the 1980's and 1990's, the Chi-Lites continuity was maintained by Marshall Thompson despite several member changes; and
WHEREAS, In 1997, while returning home from a concert in Pennsylvania, the Chi-Lites were involved in a serious automobile accident which resulted in Marshall Thompson's wife Constance being ejected from the vehicle. Constance died from her injuries "Hold On to Your Dreams" was included on the Help Wanted (Heroes are in Short Supply) album in Constance's honor; and
WHEREAS, the Chi-Lites were inducted into the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Chi-Lites were featured, along with other legendary artists, in a documentary called "Only The Strong Survive" by Miramax films, which was released in 2003. The Chi-Lites remains popular on the oldies touring circuit to date; and
WHEREAS, Marshall Thompson, born April, 1941, Chicago, Illinois, USA, Marshall Thompson's autobiography, The Last Man Standing, tells his personal story from childhood to the Chi-Lites origination, its rise to fame, and the many struggles along the way; and
WHEREAS, September 17, 2014 marked the premier of Unsung on TV One (TV One is a venture of Radio One, the largest radio company that primarily targets African American and urban listeners; and Comcast Corporation), which chronicled (he triumpfis and tragedies of an iconic musical group characterized by stylish costumes, signature harmonies and timeless classic songs; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and Members of the City Council of The City of Chicago, assembled this 10th day of November, 2014, do hereby honor and commend Marshall Thompson who for 65 years has provided entertainment worldwide.
WILLIE B. COCHRAN
Alderman - 20lh Ward
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Marshall Thompson as a token of our appreciation and esteem.