You are absolutely right. I wasn't born until 1985 but everything about the music from that decade is just amazing. This group here is absolutely one of the best. Such a shame that Fred White is no longer with us.
In 1973 I went to see Uriah Heep and the show was opened by the unknown Earth Wind & Fire. They were awesome and blew us white kid rock fans away. The next day I bought my first E,W & F album. I've remained a fan all my life. Long live the spirit of Maurice White.
In Maurice White's autobiography, he says that EW&F got kicked off that tour - they kept blowing Uriah Heep off the stage, and Heep's management were not happy. It apparently happened to EW&F on several tours with other bands as well. Most rock groups couldn't compete with the showmanship, costumes, dance routines, and harmonies of an 8-to-9-piece jammin' funk band whose jazz-rooted musicianship beat all but the very best of the rockers.
Drove for small LA limo company with a notable clientel in early 80s. Got a call early one morning telling me to rest and get my white stretch totally together. At 5P I was to pick up Earth Wind and Fire at Beverly Hills Hotel and take them to Forum...Already a big fan I was excited. At the Forum they invited me to watch rehearsals. Afterward made certain I had a great seat for concert. After the show there was a "special restaurant" they wanted to go to for dinner. When we got there I received and invitation to eat with them...As people they were just as outstanding as their music.
That is absolutely beautiful. Chauffeur the mighty EWF I probably would have fainted first get that out the. I know that is a hell of a memory please do not forget it.🙂🌈❤️🎉🥳🥰
Yes, they had a choice, free choice, just as people have today. Music wasn't taught for free, it was created and invented by independent hearts and minds...impossible if you allow yourself to be led by dependence and cynicism.
@@myssaaquatica9294 you sound crazy boy. He was not being a smart ass and yes music was taught for free until w bush removed it from schools like he removed civics. My grandfather played for the ohio players. Look not all black folks are poor and broke. Not in ohio so move on with your nonsense ya dam freak.
You have to understand the history of how a long with our church the government had actually invested heavily into music programs since the 40s. So you get rehearsal time in the church and add the hours in school and the professional music coaches directors etc. it was a beautiful time to be a student of music. You had everything you needed. Well opportunity was a whole nother thing. Especially Opera. Sad but true. Sorry for the rant. Just my 2 🙏🏾😎✌🏾
I don't usually make these declarations here because I love so many different R&B groups, singers ,bands But I must declare Earth ,wind & fire the greatest R&B band of all time
@Windband1 It's like the whole concept the elements of the universe and what they actually song about And that time period for black people which will never happened like that again cause it was 1969 when it was founded
Sorry, but this isn’t R&B, this is more afrocuban jazz, or acid jazz, before EW&F went disco. But you can’t say they are the best, especially with Miles Davis out there who created this era of music, then you have Weather Report, Return to Forever with Chic Corea who also cut his teeth with Miles Davis, and Herbie Hancock who also cut his teeth with Miles Davis, I could go on, but there were a lot of great musicians and bands from that era before Disco. Probably the greatest album of all time was Miles Davis “Sometime My Prince Will Come”, and of course John Coltrane was on there too. Earth Wind and Fire Gratitude was the first album I ever bought with my own money, and I still have it to this day, although it should be worn out with as many times I’ve played it over the years, but in context, it’s great, but it’s not the best ever.
I remember watching this show as a teen. We came back to school the next day in total awe. One of my classmates came running down the hallway asking all the Black students, she asked "Did y'all see dat group Erf win & Fie?!!!" We said, "everybody saw that!" She continued, "Ooo they African!!!" It was beautiful. Earth Wind & Fire made us so proud to be "African" and conscious.
Kids, when your Parents and GrandPatents tell you that the music and musicians of today, “ain’t nothin,” this here is what they’re comparing your “artists” to! These guys could play, dance, and sing! Most, like bassist and co-founder, Verdeen White, STILL dance full out while playing and singing, for an hour or more! Amazing!
@@Woodsaras I don't understand your comment. Musicians live. Are you comparing then and now. Because I've lived to se that generation live. And what we have now. So could you clarify what you mean?
First album of EWF I ever heard all the way through was 'Head To The Sky'......absolute masterpiece. The songs 'Evil',' Masquerade' and 'Clover' just blew me away. Thank you Elements for creating this artistic gem in my lifetime.
The sound of early 70's was like everyone wanted to communicate through "music" and say something profoundly. EWF did it, as exceptional as, it can be done. Just wow, what a great band.
Real musicals, real artist, this time may have passed where kids in the neighborhood actually learn how to play and read music,,,,,,,, unless we change the seen,,,,,,,?
One of the greatest groups ever! EWF still sounds great during their live performances. Will always remember when I caught them live in Hawaii years ago. What a concert!
@ Therone Dawson: Always the lame ‘no autotune’ comment. In this case, autotune would have been more than welcome, cause everything sounds so damn out of tune it’s downright painful.
@ Therone Dawson: I’m old enough to have seen the Beatles perform live. Now THERE’s a group of musicians who fully deserve your “talented and great without the help of autotune” accolades. As opposed to the fab four, who couldn’t even hear themselves (let alone each other) through the excruciating noise of fifty thousand screaming girls, Earth Wind & Fire and their contemporaries enjoyed the luxury of PA’s, on stage monitoring and electric guitar tuners, but still managed to sound uncomfortably out of tune, at least on this particular video. As a professional musician, I might be a tad on the picky side, but when that guitar comes in at 2:42 a few of my fillings came loose. Now I won’t argue with you about the sorry state of today’s music (and actually liked one or two EW&F records), but when it comes to raw talent, songwriting and stage performance without the aid of virtually anything, no one will ever come close to this little combo: ruclips.net/video/xxVtYSFaUx0/видео.html
This is a superb performance from this band when Jessica Cleaves was still with the band, and right before Al McKay joined them. RIP Maurice and Jessica.....
Al McKay was in the band shortly before they did this live performance, but was let go because Al had other commitments. Maurice brought him back a few months later. Also, Al McKay and Jessica Cleaves went to school together. Jessica also went to school with one of EWF's outside songwriters in Skip Scarborough. RIP Jessica Cleaves
I first heard Earth, Wind, and Fire my Freshman or Sophomore years in college in 1973 or 1974 when students came back from Summer break. They were the hottest group out there then and everyone of the students were playing their album or songs. I saw a repeat awards show on the Steller channel honoring Ramsey Lewis when he mentioned Maurice White as part of his group who founded Earth, Wind, & Fire. I guess that's when they co-wrote "Sun Goddess" which was released by both Lewis and White for both groups. I saw E, W, & F in concert with the O'Jays and Natalie Cole and everyone was fantastic but E, W, & F tore it up!!! They did something that made the audience on the floor lean back like a wave; I was on the floor. This was an epic show!!! I played in band from 7th grade through college and easily recognized them as trained and gifted musicians. This is why they were so awesome and great where no other group can ever compare to their greatness!!! Their horn (brass) and percussion sections were off the chart!!! But really every section of the band were gifted musicians!!! I saw Ramsey Lewis in Blues Alley in Georgetown in 1984 or 1985 with Phyllis Hyman and can't remember who the 3rd act was, but they were great too. This was around the time when Roy Ayers and Herbie Hancock were popular and charting the jazz scene.
I was 11 years old in 1975 and heard Shining Star 🌟 for the first time and was blown away. Middle school for us we were all about EWF and other RnB bands. I have been going back to music I listened to back then and I have to say I had great taste! True musical mastery with these guys. RIP Maurice! ❤️
WHAT !! CON FUNK SHUN, BARKAYS, CAMEO WAR ETC ETC EWF HAD LOTTA COMPETITION. BOOTSEY, PARLIAMENT, ISLEYS, . I WENT DEEP SEA DIVING AS A TEEN. WEATHER REPORT, DEODATO, TAJ MAHALL / AND MANY MORE. EVEN RAY CHARLES WAS BANGING IN THE 70'S
Most talented band in the world from 70s & 80s. What they did back in the days was phenomenal. I remember burning their lp onto 8track blank cartridges onto my Zenith Wedge stereo system. I had the baddest music blasting on my 8track tape player with EWF
This barely begins to capture their energy in 73! I saw them in 73 at Ga Tech, sandwiched between Tucky Buzzard (I mainly recall their name), and Uriah Heep. EWF blew the roof off the coliseum. At one point Verdine jumped down into the crowd and danced his way through it as he played. He eventually ended up dancing with a woman in the audience and (IIRC) even giving her a looooong kiss- all without missing a beat. And this was well before wireless rigs; he had a 100 foot cord, at least. Amazing. They were as much fun to watch as they were to listen to.
I was a fledgling 16 year old at the time. Was not ready for the raw musicianship that was EWF at the time. They literally blew my socks off! This was presented on a PBS production known simply as "Soul" at the time per the opening announcer. Have to say the show's title was particularly apropos for this episode. Maurice had a vision and EWF was its culmination. Were we ever lucky to have been blessed with some tremendous musical offerings in this era.
What a gem to find this morning! This band was and still is the best band the world has ever known. They captured the essence of that time in history, as well as bringing such love and incredible music. So glad I got to grow up at this time and to have found them. They shaped my growing up. Thanks!!
I grew up at that time too and EARTH, WINDE AND FIRE is my favorite band of all time and is a family favorite. Earth, Wind and Fire and Maurice White represented the greatness of USA and true MUSIC that touches lives worldwide and PEACE.
I was too young to see them in the 1970s, but man - that "Raise " concert in 1981 with all that creativity and them running around the stage with wireless instruments was a sight to behold. That was one of, if not the best concert I have ever seen. The energy level and creativity was atomic.
If I could snap my finger and bring this time back, I would do it without hesitation! What pure talent this is! Maurice, your presence and talents are missed! Thank you for sharing your incredible gift with the world!
This powerhouse group was way ahead of its time by combining jazz, soul, funk, african, latin percussion with lyrics that was heavily influenced with esoteric science of the occult aka hermetic, metaphysical knowledge of SELF. MAD RESPECT TO EWF
Been a fan of EWF for over 40 years and I had never seen this video before. The were raw and talented! You can see greatness in the makings. RIP Maurice, Andrew and Don... Don Myricks came later with the addition of the Phoenix Horns.
The very best band ever!!! These guys are true musicians that are unparalleled in their abilities to play music. They have countless of hits that will never be forgotten nor not listened to but by all races and generations. My first experience with them was when they came out with "Keep Your Head to the Sky" and I was hooked forever!!!
"Mom", this is the song that started it for me when I was a kid. I played this song over and over! Didn't know how far this band would go, but I knew they had what it took and they went straight through the Stratosphere!!! Interesting at the 15:22 mark, Phillip on congas, Verdine on bass and Ralph on drums would be what's left of EW&F (a Snap Shot) and carrying the torch for Maurice. Rest In Peace Maurice and Jessica......
I remember their Spirit Album as small kid always blew my mind. The bright orange color and the Pyramid took me off to another place. That is one of the main reasons Orange along with red has been my favorite color
Same here. Born in '75 (my photo is a younger me), and I remember all their hit records playing on the radio as a small child in the late 1970s-early 1980s from "Serpentine Fire" to "Let's Groove". One of my older brothers even brought home their "Raise" album and I was mesmerize by the album's artwork. Memories.
What a phenomenal line up of talent and groove. Just one of those rare youtube gems. I think EW&F would be my dream concert if I could teleport myself to any gig.
I didn't discover their music until 1975 when I fell asleep with my transistor radio on and was awoken to live version of 'Reasons' on the radio. Trouble was the Djay didn't announce who they were - and of course there was no Shazam or Internet in those days. I finally caught up with them in 1978 and never looked back.
I'm a real estate appraiser in Houston, Texas. One time, about 20 or so years ago, I did an appraisal on an investment propety, and the investor/buyer was one of the guys from Earth, Wind and Fire. I don't remember which one, but he was a prominent/original band member. He owns (or at least he did at that time) literally hundreds of propetries all across the country,
My Goodness! Thanks for posting this. I did not know of them until '78, being culturally isolated in the north of England as a junior-to-teen throughout the decade. What a difference they would have made to my happiness: to see such gorgeously talented, beautiful Black people with their so-uplifting sound against the total dross (and outright nastiness, frankly) that me and mine recall of the times. They hold a special place in my affections for both purely aesthetic and cultural reasons.
None of them really got big and fat. Sure, they put on a few pounds as gravity did it's thing, but Maurice, Verdine & Phillip all remained rather slim and trim as they aged.
HISTORICAL BAND!!!! Great live show at Oakland Paramount 07. They just so into their groove u can feel the energy of each musician. Thanks guys for being there when I needed you n getting me off my ass to dance. Party over here... You've been good to the world and its a better place due to ya'all sharing your souls. Now go be good to yourselves n others. ✌®
As an old white dude I can't understand how we could have gone from these fantastic incredibly talented musicians and singers, and all of the unbelievably gifted Motown singers and groups... to rap. I can add how did we get from all of the immensely talented, and all completely different sounding, groups in the 70's... to what passes for rock music of today. How very very sad indeed....................
American businessman who weren't Black ran the entertainment industry the took advantage of the Black talent took most of money as exploited . Only a few were able to get paid. Drugs pump into the inner city were the talent duels killed the spirit of the people. Rap was its revenge. Very unfortunate that you can't see the RAP MUSIC was necessary to break the chains of economic and social oppression of a people who were being exploited by the powers run corporate America. They are ruthless...
Maurice and Verdine's 17 year old brother Fred was supposed to be the drummer for EW&F around this time right out of high school but was asked to be Donny Hathaway's drummer for his upcoming tour.
BTW, Verdine White was taught to play the upright bass before joining his brother Maurice White who was the drummer for the "Ramsey Lewis Trio" ("The In Crowd) fame back in the late 60's.
I read somewhere that Verdine was taught by Louis Satterfield, the man behind the bass line behind Fontella Bass' "Rescue Me", later trombone player with The Phenix Horns for EWF.
From 1973 up to December 2022 I will always go see EWF anytime they are in the vicinity…love em! In fact, I saw the Fantasy tour 6 times!! From the opener in Cincinnati to the close in Chicago The mightiest elements of the universe: EARTH WIND and FIRE RIP Maurice RIP Fred
Tha GREATEST BAND IN THA LAND BAR NONE, LOVE THA ELEMENTS, , THEY DID " TRUE LYRICS" AN REAL MUSIC ONLY A REAL OLD SKOOLER CAN ENJOY ! RIP MAURICE, an TKX YOU FOR A MUSIC RIDE OF A LIFE TIME! SO PROUD TO BE " OLD SKOOL ! REARED !
Very rare to see him on the kit show’s the diversity of the band. Ralph was the one playing drums upside down during the 75 tour at Madison square garden and didn’t miss a beat.
People see them today and think it was only Philip, Verdine and Ralph. This was actually the core of the group after a reformation. Some of the music from these years are their greatest classics.
In every phase of life, there,s good better and there's best ever that who earth wind and fire is the greatest band ever! Just like Jordan, Ali, Bruce Lee, just to name a few who were great and greatest at there craft, second to none.
IMHO They were a great ensemble, influential trendsetters and deserve a place high on the list of GOAT. The "Gratitude" live, double LP is in a category all it's own.
The 70's were one of the BEST decades for music!
You are absolutely right. I wasn't born until 1985 but everything about the music from that decade is just amazing. This group here is absolutely one of the best. Such a shame that Fred White is no longer with us.
Not one of the best, but THE BEST Period! Lol.
@@Agogo57 They definitely were, although the 60’s had some pretty kick ass music, too!❤✌🏻
I agree
At least until disco came around. 😉
In 1973 I went to see Uriah Heep and the show was opened by the unknown Earth Wind & Fire. They were awesome and blew us white kid rock fans away. The next day I bought my first E,W & F album. I've remained a fan all my life. Long live the spirit of Maurice White.
there very good band and so is uriah heep i love all music
I saw the same two groups in 1973- Big Uriah Heep fan here. But that day I also became an EWF fan.
The best of Earth Wind & Fire
They were just so freakin gooooood!
In Maurice White's autobiography, he says that EW&F got kicked off that tour - they kept blowing Uriah Heep off the stage, and Heep's management were not happy. It apparently happened to EW&F on several tours with other bands as well. Most rock groups couldn't compete with the showmanship, costumes, dance routines, and harmonies of an 8-to-9-piece jammin' funk band whose jazz-rooted musicianship beat all but the very best of the rockers.
Man, now that’s what I call a JAM session! Maurice White was a genius.
Drove for small LA limo company with a notable clientel in early 80s. Got a call early one morning telling me to rest and get my white stretch totally together. At 5P I was to pick up Earth Wind and Fire at Beverly Hills Hotel and take them to Forum...Already a big fan I was excited. At the Forum they invited me to watch rehearsals. Afterward made certain I had a great seat for concert. After the show there was a "special restaurant" they wanted to go to for dinner. When we got there I received and invitation to eat with them...As people they were just as outstanding as their music.
That is absolutely beautiful. Chauffeur the mighty EWF I probably would have fainted first get that out the. I know that is a hell of a memory please do not forget it.🙂🌈❤️🎉🥳🥰
That would be a memory for life.
I might have been at that concert! Sadly, back in the cheap seats, the sound at the Forum was terrible.
Awesome!!!
Good¡¡
When musicians really took the time to truly learn their craft!! Love this!💘
they kinda had no choice....music was taught in schools for free. No tech making tracks back then....ya had to learn how to play.
Yes, they had a choice, free choice, just as people have today. Music wasn't taught for free, it was created and invented by independent hearts and minds...impossible if you allow yourself to be led by dependence and cynicism.
@@myssaaquatica9294 you sound crazy boy. He was not being a smart ass and yes music was taught for free until w bush removed it from schools like he removed civics. My grandfather played for the ohio players. Look not all black folks are poor and broke. Not in ohio so move on with your nonsense ya dam freak.
You have to understand the history of how a long with our church the government had actually invested heavily into music programs since the 40s. So you get rehearsal time in the church and add the hours in school and the professional music coaches directors etc. it was a beautiful time to be a student of music. You had everything you needed. Well opportunity was a whole nother thing. Especially Opera. Sad but true. Sorry for the rant. Just my 2 🙏🏾😎✌🏾
I don't usually make these declarations here because I love so many different R&B groups, singers ,bands But I must declare Earth ,wind & fire the greatest R&B band of all time
Of course😣 im sure you are not alone
Agreed! They are my favorite band of all time and I grew up on Zeppelin.
@Windband1 It's like the whole concept the elements of the universe and what they actually song about And that time period for black people which will never happened like that again cause it was 1969 when it was founded
they are best American band of all time...., period.
Sorry, but this isn’t R&B, this is more afrocuban jazz, or acid jazz, before EW&F went disco. But you can’t say they are the best, especially with Miles Davis out there who created this era of music, then you have Weather Report, Return to Forever with Chic Corea who also cut his teeth with Miles Davis, and Herbie Hancock who also cut his teeth with Miles Davis, I could go on, but there were a lot of great musicians and bands from that era before Disco.
Probably the greatest album of all time was Miles Davis “Sometime My Prince Will Come”, and of course John Coltrane was on there too.
Earth Wind and Fire Gratitude was the first album I ever bought with my own money, and I still have it to this day, although it should be worn out with as many times I’ve played it over the years, but in context, it’s great, but it’s not the best ever.
By far the greatest band ever.
Willie you are so right !!!! The music, message, Talent and the intellect these guys displayed is the greatest ever.
Agree to that. I met Maurice in Frankfurt Germany in the early 1970’s. What a talent!!! Here, 40 years later I still LOVE them!Z,!!
Don't forget Tower of Power too. The baddest white band. Had all of their albums in the 70dys and 80dys.
🎯💯
The greatest band ever assembled!
Their music is mesmerizing and intoxicating. It never gets old!
Yes I agree with you
My heart is broken for them losing Maurice.😢
@@marcybigfan2016 Also, Andrew Woolfolk and Jessica Cleaves.
In loving memory of Maurice White.
SIP
In loving Memory of my Brother Mitchell Charles Brown. Haoo Bi to us. Shout out to All Virgos. Meet yoy at the cross roads My Brother. Job. Well done.
I remember watching this show as a teen. We came back to school the next day in total awe. One of my classmates came running down the hallway asking all the Black students, she asked "Did y'all see dat group Erf win & Fie?!!!" We said, "everybody saw that!" She continued, "Ooo they African!!!" It was beautiful. Earth Wind & Fire made us so proud to be "African" and conscious.
What city was this?
@@WarrenHolly Shot in NYC. The show was called Soul.
Kids, when your Parents and GrandPatents tell you that the music and musicians of today, “ain’t nothin,” this here is what they’re comparing your “artists” to! These guys could play, dance, and sing! Most, like bassist and co-founder, Verdeen White, STILL dance full out while playing and singing, for an hour or more! Amazing!
Nah, they dont really dance that much. Also, music and musicians and then live musicians are completely separste categoriesm
@@Woodsaras I don't understand your comment. Musicians live. Are you comparing then and now. Because I've lived to se that generation live. And what we have now. So could you clarify what you mean?
Tyler the creator produced his whole discography
Yes! Verdine was formally trained. Is this the guy that replaced Ronnie Laws?
Exactly
First album of EWF I ever heard all the way through was 'Head To The Sky'......absolute masterpiece. The songs 'Evil',' Masquerade' and 'Clover' just blew me away. Thank you Elements for creating this artistic gem in my lifetime.
I think "open our eyes was my first. When I heard where have all the owers gone I was Blown
My favorite songs were ally of them but, Saturday Night in 1977, made me go back to college and, graduate.❤
"Zanzibar" is pretty good too.
@@hoiwanjohnlouis Absolutely.
@@darrickmalloy6909 "Where Have All The Flowers Gone" was from the "Last Days and Time" album released in 1972.
The sound of early 70's was like everyone wanted to communicate through "music" and say something profoundly. EWF did it, as exceptional as, it can be done. Just wow, what a great band.
Awesome
Wow!!! Just a glimpse of what was to come...my fave band of all time...50 yrs going strong... RIP Maurice, Jessica and Andrew
I grew up in the greatest generation with music by Earth, Wind and Fire. ❤
More percussion than a drum circle, more harmony than a choir, more energy than flame!
this what we listened to in the 70s. REAL music by REAL Brothas. Nothin' artificial about it.
Supreme Ali and playing real instruments! 😎
Supreme Ali ASA brother!
Da truth!!!
Real musicals, real artist, this time may have passed where kids in the neighborhood actually learn how to play and read music,,,,,,,, unless we change the seen,,,,,,,?
The crap on radio today......is just sad in comparison
After seeing them live at 11yrs old, they officially became my favorite band of All Times❤️‼️‼️
11 you beat me, I was 21 and now 71 and anyone knows me can say this Sista loves EWF and have always been be favorite group ever..Yesss Lord ❤❤❤❤
One of the greatest groups ever! EWF still sounds great during their live performances. Will always remember when I caught them live in Hawaii years ago. What a concert!
This is what you call musicians. No autotune. God I miss this type of talent and music.
@ Therone Dawson: Always the lame ‘no autotune’ comment. In this case, autotune would have been more than welcome, cause everything sounds so damn out of tune it’s downright painful.
@@ArkyMalarkey Well I am of that generation where you didn't have autotune. I remember EWF and WAR and other groups who played lived.
@ Therone Dawson: I’m old enough to have seen the Beatles perform live. Now THERE’s a group of musicians who fully deserve your “talented and great without the help of autotune” accolades. As opposed to the fab four, who couldn’t even hear themselves (let alone each other) through the excruciating noise of fifty thousand screaming girls, Earth Wind & Fire and their contemporaries enjoyed the luxury of PA’s, on stage monitoring and electric guitar tuners, but still managed to sound uncomfortably out of tune, at least on this particular video. As a professional musician, I might be a tad on the picky side, but when that guitar comes in at 2:42 a few of my fillings came loose.
Now I won’t argue with you about the sorry state of today’s music (and actually liked one or two EW&F records), but when it comes to raw talent, songwriting and stage performance without the aid of virtually anything, no one will ever come close to this little combo: ruclips.net/video/xxVtYSFaUx0/видео.html
“No autotune” is a very low bar to clear! 😂 I think there are more interesting things about this band
@@ArkyMalarkey Well good sir, we all would love to hear this little combo you speak of, except that your post is spam 😂
Maurice White, Master mind visionary much love to him! R.I.P brother.
This is a superb performance from this band when Jessica Cleaves was still with the band, and right before Al McKay joined them. RIP Maurice and Jessica.....
Oh Wow Jessica passed on? I'm sorry to hear this. SIP
Al McKay was in the band shortly before they did this live performance, but was let go because Al had other commitments. Maurice brought him back a few months later. Also, Al McKay and Jessica Cleaves went to school together. Jessica also went to school with one of EWF's outside songwriters in Skip Scarborough. RIP Jessica Cleaves
@@amazing50000 Interesting ! I didn't know that. Throw my 2 cents in ..... Jessica Cleaves hits those high notes on Knee Deep and The Big Bang Theory.
@@Ston247 Yes, I know about her time with Funkadelic.
Recently lost Maurice and Verdine’s younger brother and drummer Fred White!!
I understand now why this was my mommy's favorite band.. OMGOODNESS... Pure and unadulterated talent
This is what you call A REAL BAND
I first heard Earth, Wind, and Fire my Freshman or Sophomore years in college in 1973 or 1974 when students came back from Summer break. They were the hottest group out there then and everyone of the students were playing their album or songs. I saw a repeat awards show on the Steller channel honoring Ramsey Lewis when he mentioned Maurice White as part of his group who founded Earth, Wind, & Fire. I guess that's when they co-wrote "Sun Goddess" which was released by both Lewis and White for both groups. I saw E, W, & F in concert with the O'Jays and Natalie Cole and everyone was fantastic but E, W, & F tore it up!!! They did something that made the audience on the floor lean back like a wave; I was on the floor. This was an epic show!!!
I played in band from 7th grade through college and easily recognized them as trained and gifted musicians. This is why they were so awesome and great where no other group can ever compare to their greatness!!! Their horn (brass) and percussion sections were off the chart!!! But really every section of the band were gifted musicians!!!
I saw Ramsey Lewis in Blues Alley in Georgetown in 1984 or 1985 with Phyllis Hyman and can't remember who the 3rd act was, but they were great too. This was around the time when Roy Ayers and Herbie Hancock were popular and charting the jazz scene.
Awesome !!! U Saw All These Artists Up Front !!!
I was 11 years old in 1975 and heard Shining Star 🌟 for the first time and
was blown away. Middle school for us we were all about EWF and other RnB bands. I have been going back to music I listened to back then and I have to say I had great taste! True musical mastery with these guys. RIP Maurice! ❤️
This should be a standard Music, Education, History requirement for all, especially Afr-Am, Latin youth in the arts!
Perry Bromwell This is an excellent idea! I think you hit on something here.
EWF is everything! You can't define them, except being the greatest of all time...like Muhammed ALI!!!
Amen to that, Perry Bromwell. I wholeheartedly agree.
EWF are like an Apex. A pinnacle.
@@nashboro1847 there it go again, the Brotherman pulling Mohammed Ali out of his Butt.
Lol.
Great Band.This was their Jazz-Rock period. No band could touch them musically, and the vocals were supernatural.
Mandrill was the Pioneers. EWF TOOK IT TO ANOTHER LEVEL!!
This group has so much talent spread evenly throughout it's members.
Me and my wife were born in 73 best group ever
WHAT !! CON FUNK SHUN, BARKAYS, CAMEO WAR ETC ETC EWF HAD LOTTA COMPETITION. BOOTSEY, PARLIAMENT, ISLEYS, . I WENT DEEP SEA DIVING AS A TEEN. WEATHER REPORT, DEODATO, TAJ MAHALL / AND MANY MORE. EVEN RAY CHARLES WAS BANGING IN THE 70'S
Now this is a JAM SESSION, For Real.
Shit amen to that, brotha
Most talented band in the world from 70s & 80s. What they did back in the days was phenomenal. I remember burning their lp onto 8track blank cartridges onto my Zenith Wedge stereo system. I had the baddest music blasting on my 8track tape player with EWF
This barely begins to capture their energy in 73! I saw them in 73 at Ga Tech, sandwiched between Tucky Buzzard (I mainly recall their name), and Uriah Heep. EWF blew the roof off the coliseum. At one point Verdine jumped down into the crowd and danced his way through it as he played. He eventually ended up dancing with a woman in the audience and (IIRC) even giving her a looooong kiss- all without missing a beat. And this was well before wireless rigs; he had a 100 foot cord, at least. Amazing.
They were as much fun to watch as they were to listen to.
I was there.... Great Show. EWF did a slow motion routine that was great.
0:00 Power
8:40 I Don't Want To Be Lonely Tonight
15:00 Bass Jam
19:37 Mom
25:38 Time Is On Your Side
Power is still my favorite EWF jam.
Tytytyty
Energy is a good song from EWF... came out in 1971 or '72
And Where Did All The Flowers Gone
I was a fledgling 16 year old at the time. Was not ready for the raw musicianship that was EWF at the time. They literally blew my socks off! This was presented on a PBS production known simply as "Soul" at the time per the opening announcer. Have to say the show's title was particularly apropos for this episode. Maurice had a vision and EWF was its culmination. Were we ever lucky to have been blessed with some tremendous musical offerings in this era.
I You are Right PBS Was Channel 13. I first Saw EWF 1973. Still Listen to EWF I'm 63❤❤❤❤❤❤
This is fantastic. I have such deep respect for this group.
What a gem to find this morning! This band was and still is the best band the world has ever known. They captured the essence of that time in history, as well as bringing such love and incredible music. So glad I got to grow up at this time and to have found them. They shaped my growing up. Thanks!!
I grew up at that time too and EARTH, WINDE AND FIRE is my favorite band of all time and is a family favorite. Earth, Wind and Fire and Maurice White represented the greatness of USA and true MUSIC that touches lives worldwide and PEACE.
Thank you sir Pam Wraggs from brother Cloud. Wonderful music.
Pure,raw talent,legendary
🎸 🎸 🥁 🥁 🎹 🎼 ❤ ❤ 👏
Tears to this white boy's eyes... Just incredible. True musicians.
Too bad the signed with a major label, eh?
Visente fernandez
My first 45 record was “Get Away” by EWF the basest band ever!!! Thank you Heavenly Father for beautiful music.
That brass section truly blows me away every time. Freight train coming through.
Last days and time. That album put me on Ronnie Laws. 🎷
I was too young to see them in the 1970s, but man - that "Raise " concert in 1981 with all that creativity and them running around the stage with wireless instruments was a sight to behold. That was one of, if not the best concert I have ever seen. The energy level and creativity was atomic.
If I could snap my finger and bring this time back, I would do it without hesitation! What pure talent this is! Maurice, your presence and talents are missed! Thank you for sharing your incredible gift with the world!
This powerhouse group was way ahead of its time by combining jazz, soul, funk, african, latin percussion with lyrics that was heavily influenced with esoteric science of the occult aka hermetic, metaphysical knowledge of SELF. MAD RESPECT TO EWF
This is one of the most amazing versions of Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight.
True, I loved it!
This is a very soulful rendition of this song
My first live concert experience. It was 1976 and my 10 year old mind was blown away!
Been a fan of EWF for over 40 years and I had never seen this video before. The were raw and talented! You can see greatness in the makings. RIP Maurice, Andrew and Don... Don Myricks came later with the addition of the Phoenix Horns.
Thanks for sharing This my firsr time seeing it. Excellent as usual for EWF. Love you Guys. SHOWS True Talent.
And let's not forget the late Jessica Cleaves, formerly of The Friends Of Distinction.
The very best band ever!!! These guys are true musicians that are unparalleled in their abilities to play music. They have countless of hits that will never be forgotten nor not listened to but by all races and generations.
My first experience with them was when they came out with "Keep Your Head to the Sky" and I was hooked forever!!!
Children of the ghetto.
"Mom", this is the song that started it for me when I was a kid. I played this song over and over! Didn't know how far this band would go, but I knew they had what it took and they went straight through the Stratosphere!!! Interesting at the 15:22 mark, Phillip on congas, Verdine on bass and Ralph on drums would be what's left of EW&F (a Snap Shot) and carrying the torch for Maurice. Rest In Peace Maurice and Jessica......
Absolutely amazing talent! SOUL MUSIC!! Each had their own position and played it to the hilt.
I was born in 74 the first music I ever heard and remember was EWF. My dad had every album and I knew every song as a young child lol
Hatshepsut Kemet I agree with you they are the best and I was born in 74 also in July 9th
Aww
I remember their Spirit Album as small kid always blew my mind. The bright orange color and the Pyramid took me off to another place. That is one of the main reasons Orange along with red has been my favorite color
Same here. Born in '75 (my photo is a younger me), and I remember all their hit records playing on the radio as a small child in the late 1970s-early 1980s from "Serpentine Fire" to "Let's Groove". One of my older brothers even brought home their "Raise" album and I was mesmerize by the album's artwork. Memories.
What a phenomenal line up of talent and groove. Just one of those rare youtube gems. I think EW&F would be my dream concert if I could teleport myself to any gig.
the greatest group ever
I agree.
Guillaume Bougard agreed
I didn't discover their music until 1975 when I fell asleep with my transistor radio on and was awoken to live version of 'Reasons' on the radio. Trouble was the Djay didn't announce who they were - and of course there was no Shazam or Internet in those days. I finally caught up with them in 1978 and never looked back.
ewaf88 all because of Charles Stepney. Charles Stepney stepped in and the rest is history
Yes they owed a lot to his production expertise. He also had a major input into the opening guitar riff on Shinning star. He died far too young.
Before they were great they were fantastic
Phillip Bailey on the congas.....Verdell killing it on the bass.....this is magic.
Must not be a real fan. The name is Verdine White
Two years later with the release of 'That's the Way of the World' they took off to the stratosphere.
Verdine White probably one of the baddest if not the baddest bassist in the history of pop music
ed ubinas never heard cant hide love? i think you have not ears
I think OP meant bad as in good :)
He's great, but i don't think he makes the top 10
He is not a great bass player and there is apparently a ghost player on there live performances. Check them out and pay close attention.
Tee Show Yup, and the earth is flat, nobody has ever been on the moon, and dinosaurs lived beside humans 6000 years ago.
Wow, I graduated from high school in 1973. When I first heard Earth, Wind, & Fire, I fell in love with their music.
Carlos Bright I was a 14 year old in1974... I have loved them since then.
Yes INDEED
So did I in 1974, they are awesome still to this day.
Great to see this early incarnation of EWF thanks for posting. They certainly evolved from here sonically but the soul and spirit are evident.
Maurice White and Andrew Woolfolk
Rest In Power. The EWF legacy will always lives on
I hope that on one day the whole world realise that EWF is one of the best bands ever
Yep to me they are right up there with Led Zeppelin and Queen.
@@darrickmalloy6909 plus Franky Hurdelheimer and the blue spots ... not to forget Nancy Billmeyer and the Psychecdelic-Blues-Jazz-Rockers!
@@color-head1696 honestly i cant say that i ever heard of them. Not 1 note😝
@@darrickmalloy6909 me neither
@@darrickmalloy6909 Your lost....
I'm a real estate appraiser in Houston, Texas. One time, about 20 or so years ago, I did an appraisal on an investment propety, and the investor/buyer was one of the guys from Earth, Wind and Fire. I don't remember which one, but he was a prominent/original band member. He owns (or at least he did at that time) literally hundreds of propetries all across the country,
One word masterpiece ! RIP Mr Maurice white a genius of music.
My Goodness! Thanks for posting this. I did not know of them until '78, being culturally isolated in the north of England as a junior-to-teen throughout the decade. What a difference they would have made to my happiness: to see such gorgeously talented, beautiful Black people with their so-uplifting sound against the total dross (and outright nastiness, frankly) that me and mine recall of the times. They hold a special place in my affections for both purely aesthetic and cultural reasons.
Pure EWF!!! Verdine, Ralph and Phillip still doin' it, to this day!!!! MAURICE you have all the love in this WORLD!!! R.I.P.
I had the pleasure to experience Energy live on stage with the Earth Wind & 🔥 fire what a experience
I first saw EWF with Mandrill at SUNY's New Paltz college in 1973 for $1.50. What a show!! This Soul TV program is a great outing.
Everybody lean, limber and beautiful. Times have changed.
None of them really got big and fat. Sure, they put on a few pounds as gravity did it's thing, but Maurice, Verdine & Phillip all remained rather slim and trim as they aged.
Are you a fan, or not? What about the performance you (just) saw?
Food Pyramid was bad science; high carbs low fat. But the medical industrial complex has jet fuel bills to pay...
Verdine has definitely stayed slim over the years.
All that good dancing!!
Quien esta capaz de superar esto en 2020?
Me encanta que autentico, puro años 70
HISTORICAL BAND!!!! Great live show at Oakland Paramount 07. They just so into their groove u can feel the energy of each musician.
Thanks guys for being there when I needed you n getting me off my ass to dance. Party over here... You've been good to the world and its a better place due to ya'all sharing your souls. Now go be good to yourselves n others. ✌®
As a teen of the 70 I so miss the general open vib and fusion of music. Thank you for posting these great artists.
Wow I had never heard this one before. Now we going back to 1973. Those costumes and the guitar sounds are something man.
Not costumes, just casual threads,
Those were not costumes that's what black people dressed
Musical genius. Maurice White is a treasure!
As an old white dude I can't understand how we could have gone from these fantastic incredibly talented musicians and singers, and all of the unbelievably gifted Motown singers and groups... to rap. I can add how did we get from all of the immensely talented, and all completely different sounding, groups in the 70's... to what passes for rock music of today. How very very sad indeed....................
I agree the music of today is pure trash. No talent what so ever.
American businessman who weren't Black ran the entertainment industry the took advantage of the Black talent took most of money as exploited
. Only a few were able to get paid. Drugs pump into the inner city were the talent duels killed the spirit of the people. Rap was its revenge. Very unfortunate that you can't see the RAP MUSIC was necessary to break the chains of economic and social oppression of a people who were being exploited by the powers run corporate America. They are ruthless...
I agree. All the great black musicians of the twentieth century and it all ended with samplers, rap and hip-hop. All a big con.😢
I totally agree that those of us who were turned onto this music were so fortunate.
EWF, WAR, Mandrill, Cold Blood, George Clinton/P Funk.
REMIND ME WHEN I WAS YOUNG AND LIFE WAS FUN AND HAPPENING= STILL SOUND GOOD
Trying to make it to any EW&F concert that I could. 🔥❤🔥❤🔥
Verdine treated that bass like it was an upright.....one of the greatest bassist!!
THE YOUNG ELEMENTS OF THE UNIVERSE, GREATEST GROUP EVER EARTH WIND AND FIRE!
EARTH WIND & FIRE are the Baddest group in the land!! Been listenin to them since the 70s. Still goin strong. Go ahead EWF. Local Fan 4 ever!!!
Proud to be a child of '60's & '70's music! Ah, righteous!
Maurice and Verdine's 17 year old brother Fred was supposed to be the drummer for EW&F around this time right out of high school but was asked to be Donny Hathaway's drummer for his upcoming tour.
was barely born when this aired. I'm a die-hard fan of the group
BTW, Verdine White was taught to play the upright bass before joining his brother Maurice White who was the drummer for the "Ramsey Lewis Trio" ("The In Crowd) fame back in the late 60's.
Agreed
Casyxamll
I read somewhere that Verdine was taught by Louis Satterfield, the man behind the bass line behind Fontella Bass' "Rescue Me", later trombone player with The Phenix Horns for EWF.
Correct!
He's not playing on 'The In Crowd'. That's Red Holt.
So Glad to have Heard their music in my lifetime!!!
From 1973 up to December 2022 I will always go see EWF anytime they are in the vicinity…love em! In fact, I saw the Fantasy tour 6 times!! From the opener in Cincinnati to the close in Chicago
The mightiest elements of the universe: EARTH WIND and FIRE
RIP Maurice
RIP Fred
Thank you for giving us this video.
This has made my day... month...etc
The Greatest Group EVER!!! The sound of the elements....
This post is priceless! Thank you!
remiem6070 YES IT IS!! DANG! GREAT VINTAGE FIRE!
As of DETROIT native white boy... this is spectacular. I never heard this on WWW WRIF, WABX. I only heard clips on CKLW. This is marvelous.
I wonder if those seeing this as it aired had any sense of how legendary this group would become.
Tha GREATEST BAND IN THA LAND BAR NONE, LOVE THA ELEMENTS, , THEY DID " TRUE LYRICS" AN REAL MUSIC ONLY A REAL OLD SKOOLER CAN ENJOY ! RIP MAURICE, an TKX YOU FOR A MUSIC RIDE OF A LIFE TIME! SO PROUD TO BE " OLD SKOOL ! REARED !
Steve Prejean fuck the old school
PERHAPS THE 324 PEOPLE WHO HIT THE THUMBS DOWN BUTTON ARE THE WATER SIGNS,SINCE YALL WAS LEFT OUT OF EARTH,WIND AND FIRE.I'M JUST SAYING.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
This water sign always loved them.
loooooool
Stop ✋
Overwhelmed by the sea of emotion...
Pure quality. I'm finally gonna see them again this... September! Yay!
I call this "When music turns into spirituality and massages the soul." EWF really has been the soundtrack of my life!
Ralph Johnson, my all time favorite Drummer!!!
Yes Ralph was great on the drums funky and spicy!
Very rare to see him on the kit show’s the diversity of the band. Ralph was the one playing drums upside down during the 75 tour at Madison square garden and didn’t miss a beat.
People see them today and think it was only Philip, Verdine and Ralph. This was actually the core of the group after a reformation. Some of the music from these years are their greatest classics.
when black was beautiful 😍❤️💕💙💕💙💕😍
beja warrior Black is still and always will be beautiful.
@@mrsbeck14 ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾❣
Black is still beautiful !!!! Are you kidding, I guess you don't be around enough people of color.... Then you would feel Soul Power !!!!!!!!
They were JAMMIN!!! I was familiar with Parliament Funkadelic and now I'm up on Earth Wind and Fire!! Thank you...
Now those were some real down brothas...
Yes INDEED AMEN
In every phase of life, there,s good better and there's best ever that who earth wind and fire is the greatest band ever! Just like Jordan, Ali, Bruce Lee, just to name a few who were great and greatest at there craft, second to none.
The GOAT of soul, blues, rock, and jazz fusion.
IMHO They were a great ensemble, influential trendsetters and deserve a place high on the list of GOAT. The "Gratitude" live, double LP is in a category all it's own.
One of the best live albums ever!!!!
thanks ewf....your music inspired me to reach the outer limits of music!!! Rip Mr White....Forever Kalimba!!!!
Cj Guy MN
MN
MN MN MN MN
Yes