Earth, Wind & Fire are an American band formed in Chicago in 1969 by Maurice White, fusing R&B, funk, jazz, disco, and African and Latin influences into a bright, horn-driven sound topped by Philip Bailey's falsetto. That's the Way of the World (1975) is the classic entry, and September never leaves the turntable for long. Find Earth, Wind & Fire vinyl, CDs, and reissues at Wax Trax Records.
Earth, Wind & Fire were formed in Chicago, Illinois in 1969 by drummer, songwriter, and producer Maurice White (1941-2016). Anchored by White, his brother Verdine White on bass, and the soaring vocals of Philip Bailey, the band became one of the most successful and influential acts in popular music. Their elaborate live shows, spiritual and uplifting themes, and genre-spanning musicianship made them global stars, particularly through the 1970s and into the 1980s.
Earth, Wind & Fire blended R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, pop, gospel, and African and Latin elements into a bright, sophisticated, horn-driven sound. Marked by Bailey's falsetto, tight ensemble arrangements, the kalimba, and dynamic brass, their music balanced danceable grooves with musical ambition and a message of positivity and unity.
The band's Columbia catalog has been extensively reissued, with That's the Way of the World, All 'n All, and I Am among the most collected. Original gatefold pressings, with their distinctive cosmic artwork, and audiophile reissues are sought after by funk and soul collectors.
Listeners new to Earth, Wind & Fire often start with That's the Way of the World (1975) or a greatest-hits collection featuring September. For related listening, see and .
