Earth Wind and Fire<div hidden>EW&F EWF</div>
Earth, Wind & Fire, often abbreviated as EW&F or EWF, is a renowned American band established in Chicago, Illinois, in 1969. The ensemble is celebrated for its innovative fusion of various genres, including soul, funk, R&B, and jazz. Their music is characterized by rich harmonies, dynamic rhythms, and vibrant instrumental arrangements, making them one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful bands of the '70s and '80s.
The band's influence on the music industry is significant, as they were instrumental in popularizing the funk genre and maintaining a lasting legacy through their timeless hits like "September" and "Let's Groove" . Earth, Wind & Fire has also been recognized for their stunning live performances and the ability to connect with audiences across generations.
As of recent updates, the band is set to perform live and has announced upcoming tour dates, including a return to Australia after a long hiatus of 14 years . Their enduring popularity is a testament to their artistic contributions and captivating stage presence.
Overall, Earth, Wind & Fire remains a seminal force in the landscape of modern music, with a diverse catalog that continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.<div hidden> EWF Earth Wind & Fire Earth, Wind & Fire</div>
All ’N All
Written-By – Maurice White, Sonny Burke, Verdine White 3:51
A2 Fantasy Written-By – Eddie delBarrio, Maurice White, Verdine White 4:38
A3.a In The Market Place (Interlude)
Written-By – M. White 0:43
A3.b Jupiter Written-By – Larry Dunn, Maurice White, Philip Bailey, Verdine White 3:55
A4.a Love's Holiday
Soloist, Guitar – Johnny Graham
Written-By – Maurice White, Skip Scarborough 5:43
A4.b Brazilian Rhyme (Interlude)
Arranged By [Horns, Strings] – Eumir Deodato
Written-By – M. Nascimento 1:20
B1 I'll Write A Song For You
Arranged By [Horns, Strings] – Eumir Deodato
Written-By – Al McKay, Philip Bailey, Steve Beckmeier 5:23
B2 Magic Mind
Written-By – Al McKay, Fred White, Larry Dunn, Maurice White, Philip Bailey, Verdine White 3:39
B3.a Runnin'
Soloist, Guitar – Al McKay
Soloist, Horn – Donald Myrick, Michael Harris
Written-By – Eddie delBarrio, Larry Dunn, Maurice White 6:45
B3.b Brazilian Rhyme (Interlude)
Arranged By [Horns, Strings] – Eumir Deodato
Written-By – M. Nasciment 1:20
B4 Be Ever Wonderful
Written By – M. White/L. Dunn
Written-By – Larry Dunn, Maurice White 5:08
Label: CBS – 86051
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Funk, Disco
Earth, Wind & Fire's All 'N All (1977) is widely acclaimed as a funk/soul/jazz masterpiece, praised for its sophisticated production, intricate arrangements, diverse cultural influences (especially Brazilian), and spiritual depth, blending radio-friendly hits like "Fantasy" and "Serpentine Fire" with deep grooves and soaring vocals that solidified EWF's unique sound and won multiple Grammys. Critics noted its cohesive flow, featuring iconic tracks like "I'll Write a Song for You" and "Runnin'," marking a creative peak with stellar musicianship, though some found its lofty themes occasionally pretentious, it remained a commercial and artistic triumph.
The album delves deeper into spiritual and philosophical themes, referencing Eastern religions and universal brotherhood, presented through lush soundscapes.
It prominently features Latin and Brazilian rhythms, particularly on the iconic "Brazilian Rhyme (Interlude)," showcasing Maurice White's expanding musical vision.
Known for its tight harmonies, intricate horn arrangements, funky basslines, and jazz-inflected layers, balancing danceability with musical sophistication.
Standout Tracks:
"Fantasy": A dreamy, anthemic track known for its ethereal quality and strong vocal performances.
"Serpentine Fire": A funky, rhythmic dancefloor filler with a subtle Eastern groove.
"I'll Write a Song for You": A beautiful, emotionally resonant ballad showcasing Philip Bailey's powerful falsetto.
"Runnin'": A Grammy-winning instrumental with tight harmonies and intricate keyboards.
The album won Grammys for Best R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Instrumental. It achieved immense commercial success while maintaining artistic integrity.
All 'N All is celebrated for its cohesive flow, stunning production, and ability to blend diverse musical styles, cementing Earth, Wind & Fire's status as R&B legends.
Overall, All 'n All is consistently rated as an essential and top-tier album in the Earth, Wind & Fire catalog and a landmark recording in funk, soul, and R&B history.
EWF Earth Wind & Fire Earth, Wind & Fire
Spirit
A2 On Your Face 4:34
A3 Imagination 5:17
A4 Spirit 3:12
B1 Saturday Nite 4:03
B2 Earth, Wind & Fire 4:41
B3 Departure 0:27
B4 Biyo 3:38
B5 Burnin' Bush 6:48
Written by Bernard Taylor, Peter Cor )track A1), Al McKay (tracks: B1, B4), Charles Stepney (tracks: A2, A3), Jerry Peters (tracks: B5), Larry Dunn (tracks: A4, B3), Maurice White (tracks: A2 to B4), Philip Bailey (tracks: A2, A3, B1), Skip Scarborough (tracks: B2)
Label: Columbia – PC 34241
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1976
Genre: R&B Soul, Jazz, Funk
Style: Soul-Jazz, Soul, Funk
Spirit, released in 1976, is the seventh studio album by Earth, Wind & Fire and is renowned for capturing the band at their "celestial peak" with its signature blend of R&B, soul, funk, jazz, and pop. The album is dedicated to their longtime co-producer Charles Stepney, who passed away during its recording sessions.
The album is praised for the band's ability to combine high-energy funk tracks with sophisticated ballads and spiritual themes, expertly produced by Maurice White and Charles Stepney. Critics at the time, such as John Rockwell of The New York Times, noted the band's refusal to be locked into any single stylistic format, blending elements closer to jazz-rock than the standard disco formulas.
It is suffused with Maurice White's mystical and positive worldview, with a strong spiritual undercurrent, particularly in the title track and "Burnin' Bush".
Spirit was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on both the Billboard 200 and Top Soul Albums charts and achieving Double Platinum certification in the US. It was also nominated for an American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Album.
Noteworthy Tracks:
"Getaway": The album's soaring opener and a major hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart and No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It features driving funky basslines and vibrant horns.
"Saturday Nite": Another hit single, known for its danceable groove and catchy chorus, which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart.
"Imagination": A sophisticated love song and a highlight, featuring Philip Bailey's acclaimed falsetto and lush arrangements.
"Spirit": The title track, a soulful and introspective dedication to Charles Stepney, which was intended to uplift his spirit.
"Biyo": A loose, funky instrumental track that was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Instrumental Composition category.
"Burnin' Bush": The expansive album closer with gospel influences and a complex arrangement, showcasing Larry Dunn's keyboards.
The album was produced by Maurice White and Charles Stepney for Kalimba Productions. Following Stepney's untimely death during the recording sessions, Maurice White took over the bulk of the arranging and production duties, with the entire album serving as a tribute to Stepney's creative contribution to the band's signature sound.
Praised by critics for its impeccable production, artistry, and ability to transcend stylistic boundaries, with Wikipedia calling it a defining moment. The album is dedicated to their beloved co-producer, Apple Music Charles Stepney, who passed away during its creation.
EWF Earth Wind & Fire Earth, Wind & Fire