: The track topped charts in Australia, Canada, Ireland, and the Netherlands , making it the band's biggest global hit. The Songwriting and Sound

While Chicago had enjoyed nearly a decade of success before its release, "If You Leave Me Now" marked a series of "firsts" for the band:

The Heart of Soft Rock: Chicago’s “If You Leave Me Now”

Released in , "If You Leave Me Now" transformed Chicago from a jazz-rock fusion powerhouse into the masters of the power ballad. Written and sung by bassist Peter Cetera , the song became an international phenomenon and remains one of the most recognizable tracks in the history of soft rock. A Global Chart-Topper

: It was the group's first single to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 , staying there for two weeks starting October 23, 1976.

: It was their only song to reach #1 on the UK Singles Chart , where it reigned for three weeks.