Earth, Wind & Fire

Biography

Earth, Wind & Fire (EWF) is an American band that has spanned the musical genres of R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, pop, rock, and Latin. Formed in Chicago in 1969, they are one of the best-selling bands of all time, with sales of over 90 million records worldwide. The band was founded by Maurice White, who had been a session drummer for Chess Records and a member of the Ramsey Lewis Trio. The name "Earth, Wind & Fire" was chosen by White based on the three elements in his astrological chart.

Formation and Early Years

Maurice White initially formed a songwriting team with keyboardist Don Whitehead and singer Wade Flemons, which evolved into a band called the Salty Peppers. After some local success in Chicago, White relocated the group to Los Angeles and renamed them Earth, Wind & Fire. The initial lineup included Maurice's brother, bassist Verdine White. The band signed with Warner Bros. Records and released their self-titled debut album in 1971, followed by "The Need of Love" the same year.

Breakthrough and Classic Lineup

A significant turning point came when the band switched to Columbia Records and underwent a lineup change that included the addition of vocalist Philip Bailey, with his distinctive four-octave range, and other key members like Larry Dunn and Andrew Woolfolk. Their 1973 album "Head to the Sky" went gold. The 1975 album, "That's the Way of the World," which was also the soundtrack to a film of the same name, became a massive success, reaching number one on both the pop and R&B charts. The single "Shining Star" from that album also hit number one and won a Grammy Award.

Musical Style and Performances

Earth, Wind & Fire became known for their dynamic and eclectic musical style, blending funk as a foundation with elements of jazz, soul, gospel, pop, and African music. A key part of their sound was the use of the kalimba, an African thumb piano. Their live performances were legendary, featuring elaborate costumes, pyrotechnics, and illusions designed by magicians Doug Henning and David Copperfield. The band's horn section, known as the Phenix Horns, became an integral and acclaimed part of their sound.

The band's lyrical themes often centered on positivity, love, and universal spirituality. Signature songs include "September," "Let's Groove," "Boogie Wonderland," "Reasons," and "After the Love Has Gone."

Later Career and Legacy

After a hiatus in the mid-1980s, during which Maurice White and Philip Bailey pursued solo projects, the band reunited in 1987. They have continued to record and tour for decades. Earth, Wind & Fire has won nine Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 and received Kennedy Center Honors in 2019. Their music has influenced countless artists, and they are recognized for changing the sound of black pop music.