Chess Records Museum
2120 S Michigan Ave (South Loop)
The record company was immortalized by the Rolling Stones in their song, 2120 South Michigan Avenue. Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley and Chuck Berry recorded here. So did Willie Dixon, Buddy Guy and Etta James. Designated a Chicago Landmark on May 18, 1990. The Landmark committee wrote, “With its unassuming terra-cotta facade and 1950s aluminum storefront, the building seems like an unlikely candidate for international veneration, but as the offices and studio of the Chess Record Corporation between 1957 and 1967, the building has come to be regarded as one of the legendary historical sites of twentieth century recorded music. Within its walls were produced some of the most influential recordings in the creative development of the genres of the blues and rock 'n' roll, as well as significant recordings in other musical disciplines.” A historical marker was erected on the site by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks.
