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Re-Discover: Earth, Wind and Fire

© Paula Chase-Hyman

If you're ever having a conversation with someone about music and they look at you quizzically when you mention "The Elements," immediately take away their Soul card! Inarguably, Earth, Wind & Fire is THE hottest Soul/Funk band ever, and that's stated without a trace of exxageration.

Founded by brothers, Maurice and Verdine White, EWF was the band all other R&B bands wanted to be, whether they admitted to it or not. With their outrageous outfits, unending energy, mesmerizing stage presence, and tracks that ranged from the spiritual "Keep Your Head To The Sky" to the funky, "Let's Groove Tonite," Earth, Wind and Fire encompassess all that is good about soul music. Their music was diverse, kept your feet moving and was almost always tinged with a message.

This group has no less than 8 different sets of greatest hits CDs, which speaks to the volume of quality music the band produced. But quantity and quality don't necessarly go hand in hand, which is why EWF is miles ahead of the rest. For within that sheer volume of music lies jewel after jewel and hit after hit!

I've said before, choosing your favorite song is like asking a parent to choose their favorite child, it borders on being rude. But sometimes I can go out on a limb and choose the shiniest diamond from the mine, not so with EWF. The second I think one song is my favorite, another one plays in my head and I'm certain that, not the first is the best.

Although the group disbanded in '83, it re-formed in 1987 and continues to tour today. Since contracting Parkinsons Disease, Maurice White no longer performs, but it is well known that his genius and influence is what has kept the band on its successful path since the early 70's.

I'm not sure why I'd even have to suggest this, but if you haven't lately, treat yourself and re-discover Earth, Wind and Fire.

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