02 April 2008

April Artist of the Month: Earth, Wind & Fire

Formed in Chicago in 1969 by jazz drummer Maurice White, Earth Wind & Fire would become one of the most beloved bands of the 20th century. Breaking through with That's The Way of the World in 1975, the group would go on an amazing run over the next 6 years. During that period they gave us classics like September, Shinning Star, Reasons, Let's Groove, Devotion, After The Love is Gone, Fantasy, Getaway & Serpentine Fire just to name a few. Mastermind Maurice White was also behind classics like The Emotions "Best of My Love" and Deniece Williams' debut album "This is Niecey". Besides rolling out classic song after classic song, the band brought their fans one of the greatest live shows seen before or since. After losing key members like Al McKay and Larry Dunn, the group briefly disbanded in the early 80s while Phillip Baily and Maurice White pursued solo careers. A stripped down version of the group reunited in 1987 and have been recording and touring ever since. Although Maurice no longer tours due to having Parkinsons Disease, he remains the driving force behind the group. In 2005 Earth, Wind & Fire released it's strongest album in over two decades (Illumination) and saw Maurce return as lead vocalist on a few of the tracks. This month Reunion Radio is spotlighting 4 decades of music from this legendary band. We'll include many of their classics and newer releases, as well as the production work and side projects of prominent members. We hope you'll enjoy listening to this as much as we enjoyed putting it together. But after all, this is Earth, Wind & Fire we're talking about -- How could you not?

Earth Wind & Fire Live in Brazil 1980

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