Near South Side in Chicago in Cook County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Chess Records Office and Studio
— Chicago Landmark —
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, December 6, 2021
1. Chess Records Office and Studio Marker
Chess Records Office and Studio
Horatio R. Wilson, architect
2120 S. Michigan Avenue is internationally known as the site of some of the most influential Blues and Rock 'n' Roll recordings, including "Johnny B. Goode," "Rescue Me," and "Red Rooster." Between 1957 and 1987, brothers Leonard and Phil Chess made this modest facility the creative home for such artists as Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, Howlin' Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Chuck Berry. Its history inspired the Rolling Stones and the Yardbirds to record here in the mid-60s. The building was redesigned for Chess by John G. Townsend, Jr. and Jack G. Wiener.
Designated on May 18, 1990
Richard M. Daley, Mayor
Erected by Commission on Chicago Landmarks.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Entertainment • Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Illinois, Chicago Landmarks Commission series list. A significant historical date for this entry is May 18, 1990.
Location. 41° 51.217′ N, 87° 37.441′ W. Marker is in Chicago, Illinois, in Cook County. It is in the Near South Side. Marker is on South Michigan Avenue, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Chess Records Recording Studio (a few steps from this marker); South Michigan Avenue Motor Row (a few steps from this marker); White Castle #16 (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Second Presbyterian Church (about 800 feet away); American Book Company Building (approx. ¼ mile away); Wheeler–Kohn House (approx. ¼ mile away); Henry B. Clarke House (approx. ¼ mile away); The Platt Luggage Building (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chicago.
Also see . . .
1. Chess Records (Encyclopedia of Chicago).
"Founded in 1950, Chess Records captured a vibrant new style of American music with roots in the American South that influenced and inspired rock and roll pioneers from Chuck Berry to the Rolling Stones. It has become synonymous with American rhythm and blues."(Submitted on December 21, 2021.)
2. Strange Voodoo Inside the Chess Vaults (Blues Access, Winter 1999). First person narrative of a visit to studios yielding an in-depth history... (Submitted on December 21, 2021.)
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, December 6, 2021
2. Chess Records Office and Studio and Marker
The marker is visible here on the left edge of the leftmost building.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 21, 2021, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California. This page has been viewed 299 times since then and 34 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 21, 2021, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.
