Earth, Wind & Fire has captured our hearts and invaded our dance floors for over 40 years. With hit after timeless hit, this mega-group continues to tour the world.
Their massive catalog of work transcends, gender, economic background, race, and time. It’s nearly impossible to narrow down your favorite song.
However, in honor of the Grammy award winning group’s upcoming performance at Oven’s Auditorium on Friday (June 22), I thought I would give it a try.
Here are my top 10 Earth, Wind & Fire songs.
10. Devotion
This 1974 release was featured on Earth, Wind & Fire’s album Open Our Eyes. Since it’s 1970s release the popular song has been sampled by several artists including Yo-Yo and the late Aaliyah.
9. Sing a Song
This hit single, released in 1975, reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100. It was featured in the films Somethings Gotta Give and The Color of Friendship.
8. That’s the Way of the World
This single was the title track of their 1975 album That’s the Way of the World. The power of this melodic groove could not be denied and landed Earth, Wind & Fire a position on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
7. Fantasy
This Grammy nominated single was released in 1978. It is regarded as one of their most popular songs. Like other Earth, Wind & Fire songs, Fantasy has been sampled in several other forms of media including; video games, film, and television.
6. After the Love is Gone
Released in 1979, “After the Love is Gone”, was nominated for a Grammy for Record of the Year and won for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. It reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
5. Shining Star
This 1975 Grammy Award winning single hit No. 1 on both the U.S. Hot 100 and R&B charts. “Shining Star” is considered The Elements first major hit to cross over and attain mainstream success.
4. Reasons
Released in 1975, this romantic ballad is a timeless contribution to their sixth album, That’s the Way of the World. An interesting anecdote about this song is that it has a history of being featured during weddings or as the actual wedding song. Sorry newlyweds, if you listen carefully you’ll realize that the song is actually about infidelity.
3. Boogie Wonderland
This 1979 disco classic featured The Emotions. It reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Boogie Wonderland” was recently resurrected for an all new audience in the films Happy Feet and Madagascar.
2. Let’s Groove
This 1981, Grammy nominated single sold over a million copies in the U.S. The music video was the first video to be played on BET’s Video Soul.
1. September
Released as a single in 1978, “September” reached number one on the U.S. R&B chart and number eight on the Billboard Hot 100.This classic feel-good number can bring sunshine to any cloudy day!
