Chris Pinnick is an American guitarist and songwriter, probably best known for his work with the band Chicago from 1980–1985.
Pinnick was born on July 23, 1953 in Van Nuys, California and took up the guitar at the age of seven. An early example of his professional guitar work can be heard on Herb Alpert's single "Rise," which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1979.
After guitarist Donnie Dacus left Chicago in 1980, Pinnick was hired as a session musician for the album Chicago XIV. He continued to tour with the band. By the time Chicago 17 was released in 1984, Pinnick was listed as a full member of the band. However, Pinnick himself is quoted as saying he was never a member and in any case he left the group in 1985 and was succeeded by Dawayne Bailey.
Pinnick's other recording credits include work for one-time Chicago frontman Peter Cetera, Chuck Negron, Chet McCracken and Rick Devin. As of 2008, he continues to do session work in Los Angeles, where he is also the co-owner and operator of a recording studio.