After the band's success with subsequent singles, "Beginnings" was re-released in June 1971, backed with "Colour My World". Both sides became U.S. radio hits, and the combined single climbed to number seven on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. "Beginnings" reached number one on the U.S. Easy Listening chart. The distinctive acoustic guitar was originally played by Chicago's guitarist Terry Kath. In concert, Lamm has played guitar for the song, though he is primarily known as the group's keyboard player.