"Live in Japan" is a live album by the American rock band Chicago, originally released in November 1972. Recorded over three days at the Osaka Festival Hall during their tour in support of "Chicago V" in 1972, the album captures the band's energetic performances during their visit to Japan.
One distinctive feature of "Live in Japan" is the inclusion of Japanese-language versions of two of their songs, "Lowdown" and "Questions 67 And 68". These tracks were specially recorded to connect with their Japanese audience and are documented on the album in their Japanese renditions.
Initially, "Live in Japan" was released exclusively as a two-LP set in Japan (CBS/Sony SOPJ 31-32XR). It wasn't until 1996 that the album saw a wider release in the United States, where it was issued as a two-CD set (CRD-3030) by Chicago's own label, Chicago Records.
Interestingly, "Live in Japan" diverges from Chicago's standard album numbering convention. While their other live album from 1971, "Chicago at Carnegie Hall", is part of their numbered series ('IV'), "Live in Japan" remains an outlier in terms of its album numbering.
The album is celebrated for its dynamic live performances, capturing Chicago at the peak of their prowess during the early 1970s. It continues to be appreciated by fans for its vibrant energy and the unique cultural connection through the Japanese-language tracks.
