Photos by Andy Argyrakis

As the best-selling solo pianist of the last quarter-century, Jim Brickman has thus far accumulated 22 Billboard Number One albums and 32 Top 20 singles pulled from a stable of new age, pop, country, gospel, covers and Christmas collections.

Yet the double Grammy nominee and Dove Award winner, who’s even an author and syndicated radio host, had a completely new angle up his sleeve for the “Brickman Across America” Tour when Chicago’s classy and mostly full City Winery uncorked its entire run.

For around 100 minutes, the romantic and inspirational musician performed all the major hits, plus paid tribute to a few foundational influences, which is a trend he’ll continue in several other cities across the country, all while recording every last note and audience interaction for a compilation slated to release in 2023.

In the meantime, it prompted everything from the charming originals “If You Believe,” “Winter Waltz,” “Above The Clouds” and the Olympics theme, “Hero’s Dream,” to memories of late collaborator and longtime friend Olivia-Newton John come “Over The Rainbow,” a patriotic medley, a ragtime rendition of “Amazing Grace” and a communal sing-a-long of the forthcoming “Feels Like Home.”

Brickman is of course no stranger to duets, including prominent partners Martina McBride, Lady Antebellum, Michael W. Smith, Kenny Loggins, Donny Osmond, Michael Bolton, Carly Simon, Johnny Mathis and Herb Alpert, who were understandably absent, but it didn’t stop him from personally singing “The Gift,” “Love Of My Life,” “By Heart,” “Never Alone” or “Simple Things.”

The solo headliner was also a hoot with his banter in between, telling several self-deprecating jokes, taking requests and giving insight into a calming songwriting style that continues to blur boundaries and stir various corners of the soul.

Perhaps that’s why he continues to attract loyal crowds of varying ages, all of whom rose to their feet following a finale of “Valentine,” while Brickman echoed his appreciation right back to City Winery for a wonderful and whimsical opening night.

For additional information on the Jim Brickman, visit JimBrickman.com.

Upcoming concert highlights at City Winery include Robert Fripp & David Singleton (Oct. 9); John Prine Birthday Celebration (Oct. 10); Major. (Oct. 11); Jennifer Hartswick Band (Oct. 12); Meagan McNeal (Oct. 14); Beatles Brunch (Oct. 16); Cocktales (Oct. 16); Hi-Five (Oct. 17); Acoustic Alchemy (Oct. 19); Candiace (Oct. 20); Chrisette Michele (Oct. 23-24); Jackie Evancho Sings Joni Mitchell (Oct. 25); I Am Athlete (Oct. 27); Bob Schneider (Oct. 28); Jon McLaughlin (Oct. 29); Shanice (Oct. 30) and Just Fine: The Ultimate Mary J. Blige Tribute (Oct. 31). For additional details, visit CityWinery.com/Chicago.

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