Congratulations to Chicago’s own Marshall Thompson, founder of The Chi-Lites on his Lifetime Achievement Award from the Illinois Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!
Our own Bioncé Foxx presented him the award that honors his pioneering career in soul music and his continued legacy as the last surviving member of the legendary group last Sunday at the Rialto Theater in Joliet. He graced the sold-out crowd with a performance to close out the night that brought everyone to their feet.
Marshall grew up on the South Side of Chicago. His father was also a musician, William “Nose” Thompson, who played piano for Redd Foxx and other performers at New York City’s legendary Apollo Theater and The Cotton Club.
Marshall started high school at Hyde Park Academy, then transferred to DuSable High School where he studied music under the direction of iconic Chicago music teacher, Captain Walter Dyett, and formed his first singing group. He later joined the group that would become the Chi-Lites, who went on to record almost 40 hits that made the charts, including 21 that crossed over to the pop charts and 11 that made the top ten.
Marshall also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2021.
& Remember to always celebrate your magic! xo