As of June 2026, one original member still plays with Chicago: Lee Loughnane. Walter Parazaider retired from touring in 2017 and died in 2026, while the other classic-era originals are no longer active with the band.

Quick Scoop

Chicago was founded in 1967, and Lee Loughnane is described in recent coverage as the last original member still touring with the group. A January 2025 roundup also said Chicago had three original members left at that time, but that count has since changed with Parazaider’s death and retirement from touring.

Why the count varies

The answer depends on what you mean by “still play with the band.” If you mean currently active onstage, the answer is one. If you mean still alive as original members, the number is higher, but not all are performing.

TL;DR

  • Currently performing original member: Lee Loughnane.
  • Original members who retired from touring: Walter Parazaider retired in 2017.
  • Most accurate short answer: 1.