Earth, Wind & Fire: Chances are you’ve heard a few Earth, Wind & Fire songs even if you don’t know the band by name. They’re music has survived the test of time, forever branding the them as 70s funk legends.
The band was founded by leader/producer Maurice White in Chicago, 1969. Maurice White had grown up with a musical background as his grandfather was a honky-tonk pianist from New Orleans. White attended the Chicago Conservatory. He later gained experience in the music production business through working with Chess Records as a studio drummer. While in this position he was able to work with a variety of bands, paving the way for when he would eventually form his own. He also took up the African thumb piano which would later be a signature aspect of Earth, Wind & Fire’s music.
The band got off to a rough start with only a few minor successes; and after 18 months a new younger band was hired. In fact – the only member kept from the previous band was White’s younger brother, Verdine White, on the bass guitar. The new band, though, was a huge success. With lead singer Philip Bailey’s smooth falsetto and the band’s exceptional sound they soon achieved nationwide recognition. First with their album Head to the Sky (1973), then with That’s the Way of the World (1975) which contained their Grammy-winning hit, “Shining Star”. The band soon became a hit, gracing the public with funk anthems such as “September”, “Let’s Groove”, and “Boogie Wonderland”.
Earth, Wind & Fire was a key member in the 70s music scene. The band had a strong foundation in funk, but also incorporated many other genres such as jazz, gospel, rock & roll, blue, smooth soul, folk, African music, black pop – honestly the list goes on and on. What really characterizes their music from others of the time – in my opinion – was their incredible ability to make their music ~ groove~.I mean it’s actually impossible to listen to an Earth, Wind & Fire song with out taping your foot, bopping your head, or somehow moving to the beat. Their songs are timeless in that anyone who listens can’t help but dance to them.
What I really enjoy about E,W&F is their unique style and personality. If you’ve ever seen one of their album covers you’ve probably noticed how otherworldly they look. Earth, Wind & Fire’s imaginative character was also reflected at their live performances. From flashy 1970’s garb to pyramids, eagles, and orbs E,W&F concerts seemed like quite an experience. The band even had magician Doug Henning on tour with them for disappearing acts done on stage.
I don’t think Earth, Wind & Fire will ever be forgotten; their music is so iconic and few rival their rhythmic genius.
TOP HITS:
- September
- Boogie Wonderland
- Let’s Groove
- Fantasy
- In the Stone
- After the Love Has Gone
- Shining Star
- Sing a Song
- Mighty Mighty
*also I would recommend checking out some of their live recordings as well – normally I don’t go for live recordings but they actually have some pretty good ones*
Ready to listen to some Earth, Wind, Fire now. Like I said in class, this blog always inspires what I’m listening to. I find it so interesting that they took a magician on tour with them. Their concerts sound like quite the experience.
I never knew that Earth, Wind, and Fire were anything outside of the last Airbender, but now that I know they are band I will definitely have to listen to them. I love the bright colors that they incorporate into their outfits and their album covers. You’ve amazed me once again, and broadened my musical selection!!
I love Earth, Wind, and Fire!! September is definitely one of my favorite songs. I always think the opening line, “Do you remember, the 21st night of September?” are so fun because that’s my birthday! Haha, so I always grew up singing that song for that reason. Boogie Wonderland is ICONIC, and I’m so glad you reminded me it existed. Thanks for the great read and trip down memory lane!