Do You Remember Styx?

Back in the 1960’s, a small Chicago rock band named the “Tradewinds” was performing at local high school dances and frat parties. When two band members left in 1970, guitarist James “JY” Young, who was still acquiring his degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, joined the group. Other band members included Dennis DeYoung, Chuck Panozzo, John Panozzo, and John Curulewski. And, in 1972, the group performed a concert at St. John of the Cross Church in Western Springs, which happened to be James Young’s home town.

As it turned out, a talent scout was in the audience. Soon after, the group signed a contract with Wooden Nickel Records. At the same time, they decided to change the band’s name. Several suggestions were made and “Styx”, the river in Greek mythology, was chosen. Within four years, the group had recorded four albums and had established a fan base in Chicago.

In 1974, their power ballad “Lady” was played on WLS Radio and then nationwide. In the spring of 1975, “Lady” hit No. 6 in the United States and the band’s album went gold soon after. Other famous hits included “Blue Collar Man” and Come Sail Away”. During their 40+ year history, the band has had five consecutive albums certified multi-platinum, as well as sixteen top 40 singles in the U.S. It is estimated that the group has sold more than 54 million records.

Over the years, the band has gone into hibernation on occasion, and some members have gone their separate ways. But, most of the group and their unique sound are still entertaining crowds. In fact, this summer, Styx is on a summer tour, appearing in literally dozens of venues. This will include the Illinois State Fair on August 19.
.
In a recent interview, Young acknowledged that it’s hard for a “baby boomer” rock band to navigate the current music and radio industry, both of which have changed dramatically since the band’s early days. But, Young believes the band is as popular as ever.

So, what does 65-year-old James Young do when he’s not working? He said he always heads for home, which is in Western Springs’ Old Town neighborhood. A devoted Chicago Bears fan, he leads a low-key life with Susie, his wife of 42 years. But, during some past Christmas seasons, Young has contributed his talent by performing his “Share Christmas” composition at St. John of the Cross Church, where it all began.

Each week, the Western Springs Historical Society presents a “Blast from the Past”. To view prior stories, visit us at www.westernspringshistory.org or just click on the author’s name shown above