“If You Leave Me Now” is a song by the American rock group Chicago from their album “Chicago X,” written by Peter Cetera and released as a single on July 30, 1976. It is also the title of a Chicago compilation album released by Columbia Records (Columbia 38590) in 1983. It became a hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary charts in 1976. It has been widely recognized as one of Chicago’s popular hits.
The song expresses the fear of losing someone deeply loved and the sense of emptiness and loss if the relationship ends. The chorus pleads with the lover not to leave, stating that they would take away “the biggest part” or “the very heart” of the singer. The lyrics convey a heartfelt and emotional appeal to keep a loved one from leaving, hence the title of the song. The song features haunting vocals from Cetera and a smooth rock groove, making it a fan favorite and a staple in classic rock radio playlists.
