Chris Pinnick
| Chris Pinnick | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Christopher Martin Pinnick |
| Born |
July 23, 1953 Van Nuys, California |
| Genres | Rock, Blues, Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Guitar |
| Associated acts | Chicago |
| Website | Official website |
| Notable instruments | |
| Guitar | |
Chris Pinnick is an American guitarist and songwriter, probably best known for his work with the band Chicago from 1979-1986.
Pinnick was born on July 23, 1953 in Van Nuys, California and took up the guitar at the age of seven.[1] An early example of his professional guitar work can be heard on Herb Alpert's single "Rise," which reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1979.
After interim guitarist Donnie Dacus left Chicago in late 1979, Pinnick was hired as a session musician for the album Chicago XIV. He continued to tour with the band, and remained as a second guitarist despite the hiring of Bill Champlin for Chicago 16. By the time Chicago 17 was released in 1984, Pinnick was listed as a full member of the band. However, Pinnick himself is quoted as saying he was never a member[2] and in any case he left the group in 1986 and was succeeded by Dawayne Bailey.
Pinnick's other recording credits include work for one-time Chicago frontman Peter Cetera, Chuck Negron, Chet McCracken and Rick Devin. As of 2008, he continues to do session work in Los Angeles, where he is also the co-owner and operator of a recording studio.