Chicago – one of the longest running rock bands in American musical history – will release their new studio album, “Now” Chicago XXXVI, on July 8th. Featuring 11 brand-new, original songs, the album was written and recorded on the road during the band’s rigorous, never-ending tour schedule.

“Love Lives On” – the first single –  is available now on iTunes and fans who pre-order the album will receive the song instantly.

“You just never know where songs are going to end up…you just start batting ideas around, sharing life’s experiences and then something magical happens,” says Jason Scheff of the new song, which he co-wrote with Jimmy Pankow. “We never really thought it would have the impact it’s had but it’s taken on a life of its own, as songs often do.   It’s almost as if the teller of the story could be speaking from the afterlife and people are starting to come forward telling us that’s what they’re thinking about when they hear it. It’s one of my favorite compositions I’ve even been involved with and feel lucky to have been at the right place, at the right time to have helped capture it.”

You can also pre-order the album on Amazon or on the band’s website.

Chicago return to the US for a tour with R.E.O. Speedwagon starting August 1st at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles.

Hear a clip of “Love Lives On” below.