Funk music originated in African American communities in the mid-1960s. Funk can be defined as a rhythmic, danceable form of music, that is a mixture of soul, jazz, and R&B. Artists like James Brown, Rick James, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Earth, Wind, and Fire contributed to what Funk music is now and the influences it created. Funk music eventually evolved into what know as Pop music and Hip-Hop, and Disco. The Funk era gave the Black community a chance to express themselves freely and creatively with their outfits, hair, and lifestyles.
Earth, Wind, and Fire became a prominent asset to the Funk genre. This band has been described as one of the most innovative and successful groups in history. Originating in Chicago, Illinois, Earth, Wind, and Fire was founded by Maurice White in 1969. Over the years, EWF has had many members including Philip Bailey, Verdine White, Ralph Johnson, and many more.
With its unique outfits, colorfulness, and boogie style sounds, EWF helped mold the standard of good Funk music. Their hit single “September” and other hits landed them 17 Grammy nominations, in which they won 6 and numerous Hall of Fame inductions.
Artists like Earth, Wind, and Fire are the reason why we are still able to bob our heads and snap our fingers when these old songs come on. These songs are so rich in the baseline, drums, keyboard, and vocals that you still get excited to hear them, no matter how old you are. Now, that’s good music. Earth, Wind, and Fire can easily be recognized as one of the best bands ever created.
