Earth, Wind & Fire introduced the world to some of the greatest hits in music history. From “September” to “Lets’s Groove,” the ’70s band recorded a variety of songs, from R&B to disco, that still resonate with audiences today. And with modern stage shows, as in the season 24 finale of The voice, Audiences can appreciate the band for its growth and stellar talent. Read on to find out everything we know about the iconic band, its history, its musicians and more.
Who is now in Earth, Wind and Fire?
Current members of the pop-disco group include Green White, Philip Bailey Sr. AND Philip Bailey Jr., Ralph Johnson, B. David Whitworth, Myron McKinley, Juan Paris, Morris O’Connor AND Serg Dimitrijevic.
Vocalist Philip also plays several instruments and has been in the band since 1972. After a break in 1984, Philip returned in 1987 and has been part of Earth, Wind & Fire ever since. Backing vocals and other instruments are by Verdine, Ralph, B. David, John, Philip Jr. Morris and Serg.
Philip Jr. joined his father’s band in 2008.
What was “Earth, Wind and Fire” originally called?
In 1969, the musician Maurizio Branco formed the band – then called The Salty Peppers – in Chicago with Wade Flemons AND Dom Whitehead. Verdine, Maurice’s brother, eventually joined the group.
In 1970, the bandmates changed the group’s name to something other than Earth, Wind & Fire, due to Maurice’s star sign, Sagittarius. The following year they released the band’s self-titled debut album in 1971. The group ended up winning numerous awards, including the Grammy Awards, the BET Award, and the American Music Awards.
Although a biopic of the entire band has not been produced, a film titled Cursed! was released in 2003 and focuses on Maurice’s story and the band’s beginnings.
Former members of the band “Earth, Wind & Fire”
Over the last four decades, several musicians have come and gone from the band: Jessica Cleves, Ronnie Leis, Roland Battista, Larry Dunn, Andrew Woolfolk, Al McKay, Fred White, Sheldon Reynolds, Horns of the Phoenix, Douglas Carn, Sonny Emory, Dick Smith, David Taylor, Fred Ravel, David Lautrec, Greg Moore, morris pleasure, Robert Brookins, Daniele de los Reyes, Kimberly Cervejeiro, Kim Johnson, Bailey Crystal, Johnny Graham AND Don Myrick.
Source: Hollywood Life
Bernice Bonaparte is an author and entertainment journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a passion for pop culture and a talent for staying up-to-date on the latest entertainment news, Bernice has become a trusted source for information on the entertainment industry.
