Maurice White

American musician (1941–2016)

For the Pakistani Olympic boxer, see Maurice White (boxer).

Maurice White

White performing in 1982

Background information
Born| (1941-12-19)December 19, 1941
Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
Origin| Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Died| February 4, 2016(2016-02-04) (aged 74)
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Genres|

* Soul
* funk
* R&B
* jazz

Occupations|

* Singer
* musician
* songwriter
* record producer

Instruments|

* Vocals
* drums
* kalimba

Years active| 1962–2016
Labels|

* Columbia
* Kalimba Music

Website| mauricewhite.com

Musical artist

Maurice White (December 19, 1941 – February 4, 2016) was an American musician, best known as the founder, leader, main songwriter and chief producer of the band Earth, Wind & Fire, also serving as the band's co-lead singer with Philip Bailey.[1][2]

Described as a "visionary" by Vibe and a "mastermind" by Variety,[3][4] White was nominated for a total of 22 Grammys, of which he won seven.[5] He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame as a member of Earth, Wind & Fire,[6][7] and was also inducted individually into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.[1] White also worked with musical acts such as Deniece Williams, Cher, The Emotions, Barbra Streisand, Ramsey Lewis, and Neil Diamond.[1]

## Biography

[edit]

### Early career

[edit]

Maurice White was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on December 19, 1941.[8] He grew up in South Memphis, where he lived with his grandmother in the Foote Homes Projects and was a childhood friend of Booker T. Jones and David Porter.[9] Along with Jones, White formed a "cookin' little band" while attending Booker T. Washington High School. He also made frequent trips to Chicago to visit his mother, Edna, and stepfather, Verdine Adams, who was a doctor and occasional saxophonist.[10][11] During his teenage years, White moved to Chicago where he studied at the Chicago Conservatory of Music, and played drums in local nightclubs. In 1962 he joined The Jazzmen, a student jazz trio at Crane Junior College in Chicago, Illinois formed by Louis Satterfield on trombone, Charles Handy on trumpet, and Don Myrick on alto saxophone. The Jazzmen later became the Pharaohs.[12] Satterfield, White, and Handy became studio musicians at Chess Records in Chicago. At Chess, he played the drums on records of Etta James, Chuck Berry, Rotary Connection, Betty Everett and Junior Wells. Along with the likes of Sonny Stitt, Muddy Waters, the Impressions, the Dells, Willie Dixon, Sugar Pie DeSanto and Buddy Guy.[13][14] White also played the drums on Fontella Bass's "Rescue Me" (with Satterfield on bass), Billy Stewart's, "Summertime", Betty Everett's You're No Good and Little Milton's We're Gonna Make It".[15][16]

In June 1966, he left Chess and the Pharaohs to join the Ramsey Lewis Trio, replacing Isaac "Red" Holt as the group's drummer.[17] Holt and bassist Eldee Young left to form Young-Holt Unlimited. Young was also replaced by Cleveland Eaton.[18] As a member of the Trio, Maurice first played on 1966's Wade in the Water. A song from that album called "Hold It Right There" won a Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Group Performance, Vocal or Instrumental. White later played the drums on 1966's The Movie Album along with 1967's Dancing in the Street and Goin' Latin. He also performed on the Trio's 1968 LPs Up Pops Ramsey Lewis, Mother Nature's Son and Maiden Voyage. Around this time, he encountered the African thumb piano (kalimba), in a Chicago drum store. A tune entitled "Uhuru", from the Trio's 1969 album Another Voyage, marks the first recording of White playing the kalimba.[19][11][20]

In 1969, White joined his two friends, Wade Flemons and Don Whitehead, to form a songwriting team who wrote songs for commercials in the Chicago area. The three friends got a recording contract with Capitol Records and called themselves the Salty Peppers. They had a moderate hit in the Midwest area with their single "La La Time",[21] but their second single, "Uh Huh Yeah", was not as successful. White then left the trio, moved from Chicago to Los Angeles, and altered the name of the band to Earth, Wind & Fire. With the band's new name reflecting the elements in his own astrological chart.[21]

### Earth, Wind & Fire

[edit]

Main article: Earth, Wind & Fire

Along with being the leader, Maurice also performed as co-lead singer and produced most of the group's albums. EWF eventually became one of the most acclaimed and illustrious bands of all time. With the group winning six Grammy Awards out of 17 nominations.[22] As well being bestowed with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and four American Music Awards.[1] What's more, the group's albums have collectively sold over 90 million copies worldwide.[1] Maurice was also inducted, with the band, into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, The Songwriters Hall of Fame and The NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.[1]

White immersed a sense of eclecticism to the band's recordings, conceptualizing their vibrant stage portrayals while crafting the vocal interplay between his tenor and Philip Bailey's falsetto. As a musician he aided the kalimba being brought into wider circles by incorporating its sound into the band's music.[20] He was also responsible for the inclusion of a full horn section, at first, the Phenix Horns and later on the Earth, Wind & Fire Horns. During 1994 he halted his regular tours with the band but still occasionally appeared on stage. Onwards White retained executive control of Earth, Wind and Fire and remained active in the music business. Whereby he produced and performed on EW&F and other musical artists' records.[23]

Prior to the band's 2000 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Maurice revealed an ongoing affliction with Parkinson's disease. A website entitled Startalk.org was also established a year earlier in his honor where artists such as Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, Boyz II Men, Smokey Robinson, Isaac Hayes, Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton and Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine posted complimentary messages. Other noted artists who posted messages were Brian McKnight, Al Jarreau, Kenny G, Seal, Chick Corea, Carly Simon and Dionne Warwick.[24]

Along with the band White notably performed at the 2002 BET Awards and the 2004 Grammy Awards' Tribute to Funk. As well as upon stage, with EW&F and special guest Alicia Keys, at Clive Davis' 2004 pre-Grammy party where they all sang "September".[25][26][27]

### Deniece Williams

[edit]

Main article: Deniece Williams

White was co-producing with Charles Stepney, Deniece Williams' debut album This Is Niecy when in May of 1976, Stepney died unexpectedly during the album's recording. Williams was a former backup vocalist for Stevie Wonder's band Wonderlove. The album was the first for Kalimba Productions, a production company also established by White and Stepney in 1976. As such Maurice went on to mostly produce the LP which was eventually released in August 1976 on Columbia Records.[28] This Is Niecy rose to No. 3 on the US Billboard Top Soul Albums and No. 33 on the US Billboard 200 charts.[29][30] A song off the LP called "Free" got to No. 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100, No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart and No. 1 on the UK Pop Singles chart.[31][32][33] This Is Niecy has also been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA and Silver in the UK by the BPI.[34][35]

Maurice went on to produce Williams' sophomore album Songbird, released in 1977.[36] The album rose to No. 23 on the US Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and No. 5 on the UK Blues & Soul Top British Soul Albums chart.[37][38] A single entitled "Baby, Baby My Love's All for You" got to No. 13 on the US Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart, No. 5 on the UK Blues & Soul Top British Soul Singles chart and No. 32 on the UK Pop Singles chart.[33][39][40]

Williams later issued 1978's That's What Friends Are For on Columbia records for Kalimba Productions. She then released 1979's When Love Comes Calling on ARC Records, Maurice's subsidiary label on Columbia. Maurice featured as a guest artist on the LP,[41] which peaked at No. 27 on the US Billboard Top Soul Albums chart.[42] The single, "I've Got the Next Dance", also reached No. 1 on the Billboard Dance Club Play chart.[43]

Williams thereafter issued two studio albums, being 1981's My Melody and 1982's Niecy on ARC Records.[44][45] She later revealed in a 2007 interview that she "loved working with Maurice White ... he taught me the business of music, and planning and executing a plan and executing a show."[28]

### The Emotions

[edit]

Main article: The Emotions

After Stax Records became embroiled in financial problems, the girl group the Emotions looked for a new contract and found one with Columbia Records. With Charles Stepney co-producing with White, their third studio album entitled Flowers was issued in 1976.[46] The album got to No. 5 on the Billboard Top Soul albums chart.[47] Flowers has also been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.[48]

The album's title track got to No. 16 on the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart.[49] Another single being "I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love" got to Nos. 4 & 13 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs and Hot Soul Songs charts respectively.[50][51]

Following Charles Stepney's sudden death from a heart attack in May of 1976,[28] White took over producing the Emotions. During 1977 the group issued their follow up album Rejoice. The album reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart. Rejoice has also been certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.

With the LP came the single "Don't Ask My Neighbors" which got to the top ten on the Billboard R&B singles charts. Another song, "Best of My Love", reached No. 1 on the Billboard Pop and R&B charts.[52][53] "Best of My Love" won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance By a Duo or Group with Vocals,[54] and an American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Single. "Best of My Love" has also been certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.

In 1978 The Emotions released their third Columbia album, Sunbeam.[55] The album rose to No. 12 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and No. 40 on the Billboard 200 chart.[56][57] An album cut called "Smile" reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart. Sunbeam has been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.[58] The Emotions also received an American Music Award nomination in 1978 for Favorite Soul/R&B Band, Duo or Group.[59]

During 1979 Earth, Wind & Fire collaborated with the Emotions on the single "Boogie Wonderland". The song reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart. "Boogie Wonderland" has also been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA. White produced the girl group's 1979 LP Come into Our World which was released on his own Columbia imprint ARC Records.[60] The album rose to No. 35 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums chart. A song from the LP called "What's the Name of Your Love?" also rose to No. 30 in the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.[61][62] White went on to be Grammy nominated in the category of Producer of the Year Non-Classical.[5]

The Emotions went on to guest upon Earth, Wind & Fire's 2003 single "All in the Way". "All in the Way" rose to No. 13 on the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart and No. 25 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Songs chart. This track featured upon EWF's 2003 album The Promise which was also produced by Maurice White.[63][64][65]

### Work with other artists

[edit]

White performing in 1975

White also worked with several other famous recording artists. He played the drums on poet Shel Silverstein's album, Drain My Brain. White also played the drums on former Rotary Connection lead singer Minnie Riperton's 1970 debut album, Come to My Garden.[66][67] White later co-produced Ramsey Lewis' 1974 album Sun Goddess. That album reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and No. 12 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.[68] Sun Goddess has also been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.[69] Alongside Charles Stepney he also produced Lewis' 1976 LP Salongo. The album rose to No. 7 on the Billboard Jazz Albums & No. 17 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums charts.[68]

White composed a song called Tahiti Hut with Eumir Deodato on his 1978 studio album Love Island.[70] That album got to No. 20 on the Billboard Jazz Albums charts.[71] White later served as the executive producer of the R&B band Pockets' album Take It On Up released in 1978 on Columbia.[72] That album reached No. 22 on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart.[73] A duet with Deniece Williams called And Then featured on Weather Report's 1978 album Mr. Gone. That album was released on ARC Records, Maurice's subsidiary label at Columbia.[74][75] Mr. Gone rose to No. 1 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart.[76] Weather Report's follow up albums 8:30, Night Passage and Weather Report were also released on ARC/Columbia.[75]

White then appeared as a guest artist on Ramsey Lewis' 1980 LP Routes and gospel artist Walter Hawkins' 1980 Grammy nominated album The Hawkins Family.[77][78][79] He also wrote a song called Only In Chicago with Barry Manilow on his 1980 album Barry. That album was certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA[80][81] He also appeared as a guest artist on the Tubes' 1983 album Outside Inside.[82] White later produced Jennifer Holliday's Grammy nominated 1983 LP Feel My Soul.[83][84]

White went on to co-produce Barbra Streisand on her 1984 album Emotion.[85] Emotion has been certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.[86] He also produced on Ramsey Lewis' 1985 album Fantasy. That album reached No. 13 on the Cashbox Jazz Albums chart.[87][88] He also appeared as a guest artist on Lee Ritenour's Grammy nominated 1986 album Earth Run.[89][90] White later co-produced with Lenny White Pieces of a Dream's 1986 album Joyride. This reached No. 3 on the Billboard Traditional Jazz Albums chart and No. 18 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums chart.[91][92][93]

White also produced on Neil Diamond's 1986 album Headed for the Future. This album has been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.[94][95] He worked as a producer with Atlantic Starr on the band's 1987 LP All in the Name of Love.[96] The album has been certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.[97] He then appeared a guest artist on Cher's 1987 self-titled LP. That album has been certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.[98][99] As well he performed as a percussionist and co-produced on Ramsey Lewis's 1987 album Keys to the City. That album got to No. 22 on the Billboard Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.[68][100] White co-wrote a tune entitled "Can't Sit Down" upon jazz guitarist Stanley Jordan's 1988 album Flying Home.[101] Alongside singer El DeBarge, he co-produced, his 1992 album In The Storm.[102] The album got to No. 22 on the Blues & Soul Top UK Soul Albums chart.[103]

White collaborated with the Japanese band Dreams Come True on two songs. "Wherever You Are" from their 1994 album Delicious, and "Eternity", which appeared on the soundtrack for the 1994 animated film The Swan Princess.

As well he produced on Ramsey Lewis's 1993 album Sky Islands.[104] That album rose to No. 4 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and No. 6 on the Billboard Top Jazz Albums chart.[68] He also appeared as a guest artist on Marcus Miller's 1993 album The Sun Don't Lie.[105] That album rose to No. 10 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart.[106] White went on to produce the debut album of jazz group Urban Knights released in 1995 by GRP Records. Urban Knights I featured Ramsey Lewis, percussionist Omar Hakim, trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, The Emotions and saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr. That album rose to No. 5 on the US Billboard Jazz Albums chart and No. 9 on the UK Jazz & Blues Albums chart.[107][108][109] He also made a guest appearance on a song called Midnite by British R&B group D'Influence's 1995 album Prayer 4 Unity. "Midnite" reached No. 11 on the UK R&B Singles chart and No. 24 on the UK Dance Singles chart.[110][111] During 1996 White launched his own record label dubbed Kalimba Records.[112][113]

The Urban Knight's second album, Urban Knights II was again produced by Maurice. Urban Knights II featured artists such as Ramsey Lewis, Paulinho Da Costa, Verdine White, singer-songwriter and guitarist Jonathan Butler and jazz saxophonist Najee. The album got to No. 7 on the US Billboard Jazz Albums chart and No. 24 on the UK Jazz & Blues Albums chart.[114][115][116] White also arranged on British girl group Cleopatra's 1998 album Comin' Atcha!. Comin' Atcha peaked at number 20 on the UK Pop albums chart and was certified Silver in the UK by the BPI.[117][118][119]

White co-produced saxophonist Paul Taylor's 2000 album Undercover. The album peaked at No. 3 on the US Billboard Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and at No. 27 on the US Billboard Top Independent Albums chart.[120][121][122] He also appeared as a guest artist on Jazz saxophonist Kirk Whalum's 2003 album Into My Soul.[123] As well White collaborated with French jazz band Nojazz on tunes "Nobody Else" and "Kool" from their 2006 album Have Fun. "Kool" marked the first time White performed with his friend Stevie Wonder on record.[124]

White later executively produced a EWF tribute album entitled Interpretations: Celebrating the Music of Earth, Wind & Fire, released in March 2007 by Stax Records. The album rose to no. 28 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. On the LP were featured artists such as Chaka Khan, Musiq Soulchild, Mint Condition, Kirk Franklin and Angie Stone. Kirk Franklin's cover of "September" reached No. 17 on the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart and No. 26 on the Billboard Hot Gospel Songs chart. As well Dwele's remake of "That's The Way Of The World" and Meshell Ndegeocello's cover of "Fantasy" were both Grammy nominated for Best Urban/Alternative Performance.[125][126][127][128][129][130]

He then executively produced jazz musician Brian Culbertson's album Bringing Back The Funk, released in 2008 on GRP Records. Bringing Back the Funk rose to No. 3 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart and No. 18 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart.[131][132][133] This album featured guest artists such as Ray Parker Jr., Sheldon Reynolds, Bootsy Collins, Larry Graham, Ledisi, Ronnie Laws, Musiq Soulchild, Bernie Worrell, Maceo Parker, Larry Dunn and Gerald Albright. A song from the album called "Always Remember" got to No. 1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Songs chart.[134][135][136] Culbertson revealed in an interview that he is "...still in disbelief. I have learned so much from (Maurice) and he actually said that he learned a lot from me. It was incredible to work with him."[134] Maurice also co-wrote a tune called "Eye to Eye", that eventually appeared on British soul singer Jaki Graham's 2018 album When a Woman Loves.[137]

### Solo albums

[edit]

White at the 2000 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony

During 1985, White released a self titled solo album on Columbia. Robin Denselow of The Guardian called the album a "lush collection of self produced dance tracks, and the occasional ballad, with synths and drum programming immaculately in place, and the vocals as classy as ever". J.D. Considine of Musician also said the "Given his status as Earth, Wind & Fire's Shining Star, it comes as no surprise that White's first solo project sounds a lot like classic EW&F: tight, focused and punchy. But while White remembers to sink a hook into every verse and chorus, the emphasis here is on subtlety and sophistication as he works his way from R&B basics, from the studio mechanics of 'Switch on Your Radio' to the modified doo wop of 'Stand By Me', with a sense of craft that makes slickness irrelevant".[138][139][140]

The album rose to number 12 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums chart. A cover of Ben E. King's "Stand by Me", feat. jazz saxophonist Gerald Albright got to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles and No. 11 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Songs chart.[141][142][143]

Another single from the album called "I Need You" rose to No. 20 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Songs chart and No. 30 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.[144][145]

In 2019, an album of previously unreleased recordings, titled Manifestation, was released. This album consists of selected tracks worked on by White and songwriter/producer Preston Glass over a period of nearly 30 years.[146]

### Screen and stage

[edit]

White wrote and produced songs for the feature films Coming to America, A Low Down Dirty Shame, and Gatchaman OVA. He also composed music for the television series Life Is Wild.[147] During 2006 he worked with Gregory Hines' brother, Maurice on the Broadway play Hot Feet. White and Allee Willis also wrote several new songs for the play.[148]

In the movie BAADASSSSS!, the actor Khalil Kain portrayed a young Maurice White leading the early incarnation of Earth, Wind & Fire. Released at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival, the film was based on Melvin Van Peebles' struggles to film and distribute the movie Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song. His son, Mario Van Peebles both directed the film and portrayed his father in the lead role.[149][150] White also won an ASCAP Award as a composer of "That's The Way Of The World", with it being a theme song of the sitcom Hearts Afire.[151][152]

## Personal life

[edit]

White was a married father of three children: one daughter, Hemeya and two sons, Kahbran and Eden. He owned two homes in California, one in Carmel Valley and the other a four-level condominium in Los Angeles. He was a fan of basketball and tennis. He went by the nickname of "Reese".[10][153][154] His younger half-brother, Verdine White, an original member of Earth, Wind & Fire, still tours with the band as its bassist and a backing vocalist.[155] Another brother by the name of Fred White, was a member of EW&F from 1971 to 1984.[156]

## Death

[edit]

On the morning of February 4, 2016, White died in his sleep at his Los Angeles home from the effects of Parkinson's disease, at the age of 74.[157][158][159] His brother Verdine said, "My brother, hero and best friend Maurice White passed away peacefully last night in his sleep. While the world has lost another great musician and legend, our family asks that our privacy is respected as we start what will be a very difficult and life-changing transition in our lives. Thank you for your prayers and well-wishes."[160]

## Legacy

[edit]

Along with EW&F, Maurice White was posthumously bestowed with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Grammy Awards ceremony on February 15, 2016, at the Staples Center, Los Angeles, California. At the ceremony Stevie Wonder and Pentatonix performed a rendition of "That's the Way of the World" in tribute to White.[161]

Artists such as Stokley Williams, Richard Marx, Raphael Saadiq, Larry Blackmon, and Nate Dogg have also named White as an influence.[162][163][164][165][166]

## Awards and honors

[edit]

### Grammy Awards

[edit]

The Grammy Awards are awarded annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States. White received seven Grammys from 22 nominations.[5]

Year  | Nominee / work  | Award  | Result

|
|
|

1976  | Earth, Wind & Fire  | Best Instrumental Composition | Nominated
Best of My Love | Best Rhythm & Blues Song | Nominated
1978  | Got to Get You into My Life | Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s) | Won
Fantasy | Best R&B Song | Nominated
1979  | Maurice White  | Producer of the Year | Nominated

### Other awards

[edit]

* Four American Music Awards.
* The BET Lifetime Achievement Award
* An ASCAP Rhythm And Soul Award
* An ASCAP Pop Music Award
* Three NAACP Image Awards[167]
* An ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Heritage Award[168]
* Honoured by the Jazz Foundation of America.[169][170]
* Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame[167]
* Inducted into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame[2]
* A Star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame[167]
* On May 16, 2005, Maurice was honored by Los Angeles Valley College as the first recipient of their Cultural Achievement Award Of Excellence.[171]
* On May 10, 2008, Maurice White and Philip Bailey received honorary doctorates from the Berklee College of Music.[172][173]
* On May 20, 2008, Maurice, Phillip Bailey, Ralph Johnson and Verdine White received honorary doctorates from Columbia College of Chicago.[174]

## Autobiography

[edit]

On September 13, 2016, White's autobiography, Maurice White: My Life With Earth, Wind & Fire, by Maurice White and Herb Powell, was released. The book featured a foreword by Steve Harvey and an afterword by David Foster.[175] Maurice White: My Life With Earth, Wind & Fire was also nominated for a NAACP Award in the category of Outstanding Literary Work, Biography/Auto-Biography.[176]

## See also

[edit]

* Albums produced by Maurice White

## References

[edit]

1. ^ a b c d e f "Maurice White". songhall.org. Songwriters Hall of Fame.
2. ^ a b "Maurice White". memphismusichalloffame.com. Memphis Music Hall of Fame. December 21, 2018.
3. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire: The Need of Love". Vibe. Vol. 5, no. 4\. May 1997. p. 116 - via Google Books.
4. ^ Gallo, Phil (December 18, 2006). "Concord resurrects Stax". Variety.
5. ^ a b c "Maurice White". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. Retrieved June 28, 2023.
6. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire". Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Retrieved November 26, 2017.
7. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire". vocalgroup.org.
8. ^ Bauer, Patricia. "Maurice White". britannica.com. Encyclopædia Britannica.
9. ^ "David Porter". staxrecords.com. April 4, 2019.
10. ^ a b "'A Higher Force' Is the Tenth Member of Maurice White's Ascetic Earth, Wind & Fire". people.com. November 8, 1976. Archived from the original on July 9, 2019.
11. ^ a b Earth, Wind & Fire: The Eternal Dance. 1993.Columbia Records.
12. ^ "PHAROAHS". Ubiquity Records. Retrieved February 5, 2016.
13. ^ "Maurice White Interview". blues.gr.
14. ^ Vincent, Ricky (December 1999 – January 2000). "It's Elemental". Vibe Magazine. Vol. 7, no. 10\. p. 126 - via Google Books.
15. ^ Waring, Charles (February 5, 2016). "MAURICE WHITE, PHILOSOPHER AND TRUTH SEEKER – AN APPRECIATION". soulandjazzandfunk.com. Retrieved January 4, 2025.
16. ^ Earth, Wind & Fire: Biography: Rolling Stone. Rolling Stone Magazine.
17. ^ Will Leonard. "On the Town." Chicago Tribune, June 19, 1966, Section 5, p. 12.
18. ^ "Ramsey Lewis". JazzTimes. July 7, 2015.
19. ^ "Ramsey Lewis". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. November 23, 2020.
20. ^ a b Chinen, Nate (February 5, 2016). "Maurice White, a Voyager Who Traveled Musical Paths." The New York Times. Retrieved February 6, 2016. Print version appeared on February 6, under the title "Traveling Countless Paths, Sometimes Several at Once."
21. ^ a b "Earth Wind & Fire Biography". Kalimba Entertainment / PB Entertainment. Retrieved February 5, 2016.
22. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. November 23, 2020.
23. ^ "The Billboard Salute – Earth, Wind & Fire 30th Anniversary". Billboard Magazine. Vol. 113, no. 28\. July 14, 2001. p. 36\. ISSN 0006-2510.
24. ^ "Celebrity Messages to Maurice". startalk.org. Archived from the original on August 8, 2008. Retrieved October 19, 2011.
25. ^ "Philip Bailey (L), Veredine White (C) and Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire perfrom during the 2nd Annual BET Awards in Hollywood, California on June 25, 2002". Shutterstock Editorial. Retrieved January 4, 2025.
26. ^ "The funk tribute was a memorable Grammys moment". ew.com. Entertainment Weekly. February 9, 2004.
27. ^ "Alicia Keys Earth Wind and Fire – Freestyle – Live". Youtube. August 18, 2008. Archived from the original on November 17, 2021. Retrieved October 31, 2011.
28. ^ a b c Suosalo, Heikki. "Deniece Williams Story Part 2 (1975–1981)". soulexpress.net. Retrieved June 7, 2009.
29. ^ "Deniece Williams: This Is Niecy (Top Soul Albums)". billboard.com.
30. ^ "Deniece Williams: This Is Niecy (Billboard 200)". billboard.com.
31. ^ "Deniece Williams: Free (Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs)". Billboard.com.
32. ^ "Deniece Williams: Free (Hot 100)". Billboard.com.
33. ^ a b "Deniece Williams (Singles)". Official Charts.com.
34. ^ "Deniece Williams: This Is Niecy". RIAA.com.
35. ^ "Deniece Williams: This Is Niecy". bpi.co.uk.
36. ^ Deniece Williams: Songbird. Columbia Records. October 1977.
37. ^ "Deniece Williams: Songbird (Top R&B Albums)". Billboard.com.
38. ^ "Top British Soul Albums". Blues & Soul. No. 242\. January 3, 1978.
39. ^ "Deniece Williams: Baby, Baby My Love's All For You (Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs)". Billboard.com.
40. ^ "Top British Soul Singles". Blues & Soul. No. 242\. January 3, 1978. p. 4.
41. ^ Deniece Williams: When Love Comes Calling. Columbia Records. 1979.
42. ^ "Deniece Williams: When Love Comes Calling (Top Soul Albums)". billboard.com.
43. ^ "Deniece Williams: I've Got The Next Dance (Dance Club Songs)". billboard.com.
44. ^ Deniece Williams: My Melody. ARC/Columbia Records. 1981.
45. ^ Deniece Williams: Niecy. ARC/Columbia Records. 1982.
46. ^ The Emotions: Flowers. Columbia Records. 1976.
47. ^ "The Emotions: Flowers (Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums)". Billboard.
48. ^ "The Emotions: Flowers". riaa.com. RIAA.
49. ^ "The Emotions: Flowers (Hot Soul Songs)". billboard.com.
50. ^ "The Emotions: I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love (Dance Club Songs)". billboard.com.
51. ^ "The Emotions: I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love (Hot Soul Songs)". billboard.com.
52. ^ "Hot 100 Chart - Billboard". Billboard. Retrieved June 29, 2023.
53. ^ "Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart - Billboard". Billboard. Retrieved January 6, 2018.
54. ^ "The Emotions". Grammy.com. November 23, 2020.
55. ^ The Emotions: Sunbeam. Columbia Records. 1978.
56. ^ "The Emotions: Sunbeam (Top Soul Albums)". billboard.com.
57. ^ "The Emotions: Sunbeam (Billboard 200)". billboard.com.
58. ^ "The Emotions: Sunbeam". RIAA.com.
59. ^ "American Music Awards: Favorite Soul/R&B Band/Duo/Group". rockonthenet.com. Retrieved June 7, 2009.
60. ^ The Emotions: Come into Our World. ARC/Columbia Records. 1979.
61. ^ "The Emotions: What's the Name of Your Love? (Hot Soul Songs)". Billboard.com.
62. ^ "The Emotions: Come into Our World (Top R&B Albums)". Billboard.com.
63. ^ Peschek, David (April 9, 2004). "Earth, Wind and Fire, The Promise". The Guardian.
64. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire: All In The Way (Adult R&B Songs)". Billboard.com.
65. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire: All In The Way (Adult Contemporary Songs)". Billboard.com.
66. ^ "reDiscover The Breadth And Depth Of Minnie Riperton's Chess Recordings". medium.com. UDiscover Music. February 23, 2018.
67. ^ Gonik, Michael (2018). "In Hip-Hop and Beyond: Minnie Riperton [Playlist]". Okayplayer. Retrieved June 29, 2023.
68. ^ a b c d "Ramsey Lewis: Billboard Charts (Archived)". AllMusic. Archived from the original on November 3, 2013. Retrieved January 4, 2025 - via archive.org.
69. ^ "Ramsey Lewis: Sun Goddess". riaa.com.
70. ^ Eumir Deodato: Love Island. Warner Bros. Records. 1978.
71. ^ "Billboard's Best Selling Jazz LP's". Billboard. Vol. 90, no. 26\. July 1, 1978. p. 58.
72. ^ Pockets: Take It On Up. Columbia Records. 1978.
73. ^ "Billboard Top Soul LPs" (PDF). Billboard. Vol. 90, no. 43\. October 28, 1978. p. 69 - via americanradiohistory.com.
74. ^ Kernis, Mark (October 27, 1978). "It's a Reunion of Miles Davis Alumni". Washington Post.
75. ^ a b "New ARC Columbia Label on debut". Billboard. Vol. 90, no. 31\. August 5, 1978. p. 19.
76. ^ "Billboard Best Selling Jazz LPs" (PDF). Billboard. Vol. 90, no. 50\. December 2, 1978. p. 56 - via americanradiohistory.com.
77. ^ Ramsey Lewis: Routes. Columbia Records. 1980.
78. ^ "Walter Hawkins". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. Retrieved June 28, 2023.
79. ^ Walter Hawkins: The Hawkins Family Live. Light Records. 1980.
80. ^ Barry Manilow: Barry. Arista Records. 1980.
81. ^ "Barry Manilow: Barry". RIAA. Retrieved August 21, 2023.
82. ^ The Tubes: Outside Inside. Capitol Records. 1983.
83. ^ Jennifer Holliday: Feel My Soul. Geffen Records. 1983.
84. ^ "Jennifer Holliday". Grammy.com. Retrieved June 28, 2023.
85. ^ Barbra Streisand: Emotion. Columbia Records. 1984.
86. ^ "Barbra Streisand: Emotion". riaa.com. RIAA.
87. ^ "Album Reviews" (PDF). Stereo Review. Vol. 51, no. 1\. January 1986. p. 88 - via americanradiohistory.com.
88. ^ "Top Jazz Albums". Cashbox. Vol. 49, no. 27\. December 28, 1985. p. 21 - via archive.org.
89. ^ Lee Ritenour: Earth Run. GRP Records. April 1986.
90. ^ "Lee Ritenour". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. November 23, 2020.
91. ^ Pieces of a Dream: Joyride. Manhattan Records. 1986.
92. ^ "Pieces of a Dream: Joyride (Traditional Jazz Albums)". billboard.com.
93. ^ "Pieces of a Dream: Joyride (Top Soul Albums)". billboard.com.
94. ^ Holden, Stephen (July 20, 1986). "Neil Diamond: At The Top". The New York Times.
95. ^ "Neil Diamond: Headed for the Future". riaa.com. RIAA.
96. ^ Berbiers, Mark. "Interview with Atlantic Starr". soulandfunkmusic.com.
97. ^ "Atlantic Starr: All in the Name of Love". riaa.com.
98. ^ Cher: Cher. Columbia Records. 1987.
99. ^ "Cher: Cher". riaa.com. RIAA.
100. ^ "Ramsey Lewis: Keys To The City". allmusic.com.
101. ^ Stanley Jordan (1988). Flying Home (album). EMI/Manhattan Records.
102. ^ El DeBarge: In The Storm. Warner Bros. Records. 1992.
103. ^ Top UK Soul Albums. Blues and Soul. May 19, 1992.
104. ^ Ramsey Lewis: Sky Islands. GRP Records. 1993.
105. ^ Marcus Miller: The Sun Don't Lie. PRA Records. 1993.
106. ^ "Marcus Miller: The Sun Don't Lie (Top Jazz Albums)". billboard.com.
107. ^ Urban Knights. Vol. 25\. Jazz Times Magazine. 1995. p. 79.
108. ^ "Urban nights: Urban Knights I (Jazz Albums)". billboard.com. Archived from the original on November 9, 2019.
109. ^ "Urban Knights - Urban Knights". officialcharts.com.
110. ^ D' Influence: Midnite. EastWest Records. 1995.
111. ^ "D-Influence: Midnite". officialcharts.com. Official Charts.
112. ^ Newman, Melinda (August 31, 1996). "The Beat". The Beat. Vol. 108, no. 35\. p. 13.
113. ^ Miro, Peter (August 17, 1996). "The Rhythm". Cashbox. Vol. 59, no. 43\. p. 8 - via archive.org.
114. ^ "Urban Knights: Urban Knights II". jazztimes.com. Jazz Times. April 25, 2019.
115. ^ "Urban Knights: Urban Knights II (Jazz Albums)". Billboard.com. Archived from the original on November 9, 2019.
116. ^ "Urban Knights - Urban Knights II". officialcharts.com.
117. ^ "Cleopatra: Comin Atcha'". allmusic.com.
118. ^ Official albums chart results: Comin' Atcha! (Cleopatra). Official Charts. The Official UK Charts Company. Retrieved February 6, 2016.
119. ^ "Cleopatra: Comin' Atcha". bpi.co.uk. BPI.
120. ^ Soergel, Brian (June 1, 2000). "Paul Taylor". Jazz Times.
121. ^ "Top Independent Albums" (PDF). Billboard. March 18, 2000. p. 55. Retrieved May 6, 2025 - via worldradiohistory.com.
122. ^ "Top Contemporary Jazz Albums" (PDF). Billboard. March 18, 2000. p. 38. Retrieved May 6, 2025 - via worldradiohistory.com.
123. ^ Soergel, Brian (June 1, 2007). "Kirk Whalum: Soul Comes Home". jazztimes.com. Jazz Times.
124. ^ No Jazz: Have Fun. UP Music. 2010.
125. ^ "Various Artists: Interpretations: Celebrating The Music Of Earth, Wind & Fire (Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums)". Billboard.com.
126. ^ "Interpretations: Celebrating The Music of Earth Wind & Fire EPK". youtube.com. Stax Records. March 16, 2007. Archived from the original on November 17, 2021.
127. ^ "Kirk Franklin: September (Adult R&B Songs)". billboard.com.
128. ^ "Kirk Franklin: September (Hot Gospel Songs)". billboard.com.
129. ^ "Dwele". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. Retrieved June 28, 2023.
130. ^ "Meshell Ndegeocello". grammy.com. The Recording Academy. Retrieved June 28, 2023.
131. ^ "Brian Culbertson: Bringing Back the Funk". Jazz Times.com. April 26, 2019.
132. ^ "Brian Culbertson: Bringing Back the Funk (Jazz Albums)". Billboard.com.
133. ^ "Brian Culbertson: Bringing Back the Funk (Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums)". Billboard.com.
134. ^ a b Wheeler, Katrina-Kasey (June 11, 2008). "Brian Culbertson: Bringing Back the Funk". allaboutjazz.com. All About Jazz.
135. ^ Martin, Michel (August 11, 2008). "Culbertson Switches Up the Groove". npr.org.
136. ^ "Brian Culbertson: Always Remember". Billboard.com.
137. ^ Richardson, Andy (June 8, 2018). "Jaki Graham talks Beverley Knight, Wolverhampton influences and new music". Express and Star. Retrieved May 5, 2025.
138. ^ Maurice White (album). Columbia Records. September 1985.
139. ^ Denselow, Robin (October 11, 1985). "Maurice White: Maurice White". newspapers.com. The Guardian. p. 19.
140. ^ Considine, J.D. (December 1, 1985). "SHORT ROCK TAKES" (PDF). Musician. p. 108.
141. ^ "Maurice White (album): (Top R&B Albums)". Billboard.com.
142. ^ "Maurice White: Stand By Me (Hot R&B Songs)". Billboard.com.
143. ^ "Maurice White: Stand By Me (Adult Contemporary Songs)". Billboard.com.
144. ^ "Maurice White: I Need You (Adult Contemporary Songs)". billboard.com.
145. ^ "Maurice White: I Need You (Hot R&B Songs)". billboard.com.
146. ^ "MAURICE WHITE: MANIFESTATION (SoulMusic Records/Warner X)". SoulMusic. December 18, 2019. Retrieved June 11, 2021.
147. ^ "Maurice White". IMDB.com.
148. ^ Gordon, Ed (May 10, 2006). "From Earth, Wind & Fire to 'Hot Feet'". npr.org.
149. ^ Burr, Ty (June 4, 2004). "Van Peebles scores with look back at Sweetback". The Boston Globe. Retrieved February 5, 2016.
150. ^ Lemire, Christy (May 25, 2004). "A 'Baadasssss!' look at Melvin Van Peebles". today.com. The Associated Press.
151. ^ "Maurice White". IMDb.
152. ^ SanDiego (September 14, 1992). "Hearts Afire (TV Series 1992–1995)". IMDb.
153. ^ "Maurice White debuts on solo album". Jet. Vol. 69, no. 9\. November 11, 1985. p. 32\. ISSN 0021-5996.
154. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire members build their dream homes". Ebony. Vol. 33, no. 2\. December 1977. pp. 154–159\. ISSN 0012-9011.
155. ^ Aiken, Kit (September 1999). "Earth Wind And Fire: The Ultimate Collection/Gratitude/All 'N' All/That's The Way Of The World (Columbia)". Uncut Magazine. Retrieved April 28, 2009.
156. ^ Breen, Kerry (January 2, 2023). "Fred White, former drummer for Earth, Wind & Fire, dies at age 67 - CBS News". www.cbsnews.com. Retrieved March 25, 2025.
157. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire's Maurice White -- Dead at 74". Tmz.com. February 4, 2016. Retrieved May 7, 2024.
158. ^ "Maurice White, Earth, Wind and Fire co-founder, Dies at 74". MyFox8.com. February 4, 2016. Retrieved February 4, 2016.
159. ^ "Earth, Wind & Fire Founder Maurice White Dead at 74". ABC News. February 4, 2016. Retrieved February 4, 2016.
160. ^ "Earth, Wind &Fire". Facebook. Retrieved February 5, 2016.
161. ^ McKenzie, Joi-Marie (February 15, 2016). "2016 Grammy Awards Pay Tribute to Late Musicians David Bowie, Maurice White, Glenn Frey and B.B. King". abcnews.go.com. ABC News.
162. ^ "Mint Condition's Stokley Williams takes solo leap". rollingout.com. February 25, 2017.
163. ^ "Richard Marx: Five Songs I Wish Were Hits". americansongwriter.com. January 20, 2012.
164. ^ "Raphael Saadiq as Ray Ray". musicincider.com.
165. ^ Fish K., Scott. "Larry Blackmon — Soul Inspiration". moderndrummer.com.
166. ^ "How to Grow Up in Long Beach". vice.com. December 2004.
167. ^ a b c "Maurice White: Awards". mauricewhite.com. Retrieved January 12, 2024.
168. ^ Neal, Rome (July 14, 2003). "'The Promise' Of A Classic R&B Band". cbsnews.com.
169. ^ "Country music pays tribute to three greats". ocregister.com. Orange County Register. October 26, 2014.
170. ^ Allen, Matthew (November 10, 2014). "A Great Night in Harlem featuring Herbie Hancock, Questlove, Charles Bradley and more". elmoremagazine.com. Elmore Magazine.
171. ^ Funicello, Tammy (May 18, 2005). "Maurice White Honored". La Valley Star. Archived from the original on June 1, 2009.
172. ^ "Maurice White and Philip Bailey received honorary doctorates from the Berklee College of Music". Berklee.edu. Retrieved October 31, 2011.
173. ^ Dreilinger, Danielle (May 23, 2008). "Berklee Grads Find Their Wings". berklee.edu.
174. ^ "Only at Columbia: No Pomp and Circumstance for These Grads – They Rock the House with Earth, Wind & Fire Founding EWF Members Receive Honorary Doctorates, Join Student Musicians for a Rendition of Shining Star" (Press release). PR Newswire. Archived from the original on February 6, 2016. Retrieved February 7, 2016.
175. ^ bawkrystalfranklin (September 12, 2016). "Verdine White On Brother's New Book: 'It's Maurice's Last Album To The World'". Black America Web. Retrieved March 25, 2025.
176. ^ Voice, The Chocolate (February 6, 2017). "Book Review: Maurice White Bares All in My Life With Earth, Wind & Fire | The Chocolate Voice". Retrieved March 25, 2025.

## External links

[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Maurice White.

* Official website
* Kalimba Entertainment
* Kalimba Music
* Official Earth, Wind & Fire Website
* Maurice White on IMDB

* v
* t
* e

Earth, Wind & Fire

Notable members|

| Current|

* Verdine White
* Philip Bailey
* Ralph Johnson

|

Former|

* Maurice White
* Wade Flemons
* Roland Bautista
* Jessica Cleaves
* Larry Dunn
* Ronnie Laws
* Al McKay
* Andrew Woolfolk
* Fred White
* Sonny Emory
* Sheldon Reynolds
* Freddie Ravel
* Morris Pleasure
* Robert Brookins
* Daniel de los Reyes
* Kim Johnson
* Greg Moore

Studio albums|

* Earth, Wind & Fire
* The Need of Love
* Last Days and Time
* Head to the Sky
* Open Our Eyes
* That's the Way of the World
* Spirit
* All 'n All
* I Am
* Faces
* Raise!
* Powerlight
* Electric Universe
* Touch the World
* Heritage
* Millennium
* In the Name of Love
* The Promise
* Illumination
* Now, Then & Forever
* Holiday
* The Classic Christmas Album

Soundtrack albums|

* Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song

Live albums|

* Gratitude
* Greatest Hits Live
* That's the Way of the World: Alive in '75
* Live in Rio

Videos|

* Earth, Wind & Fire: In Concert
* The Eternal Vision
* Live in Japan
* Shining Stars: The Official Story Of Earth, Wind & Fire
* Earth, Wind & Fire: Live
* Earth, Wind & Fire: Live by Request
* Earth, Wind & Fire: Live at Montreux 1997
* The Collection
* Chicago & Earth, Wind & Fire – Live at the Greek Theatre

Compilations|

* Another Time
* The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 1
* The Collection
* The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 2
* The Very Best of Earth, Wind & Fire
* The Eternal Dance
* The Very Best
* Elements of Love: Ballads
* Let's Groove: The Best Of
* Greatest Hits
* The Ultimate Collection
* The Essential Earth, Wind & Fire
* The Greatest Hits

Singles|

* "I Think About Lovin' You"
* "Mom"
* "Evil"
* "Keep Your Head to the Sky"
* "Mighty Mighty"
* "Kalimba Story"
* "Devotion"
* "Shining Star"
* "Sun Goddess" (with Ramsey Lewis)
* "That's the Way of the World"
* "Sing a Song"
* "Can't Hide Love"
* "Getaway"
* "Saturday Nite"
* "On Your Face"
* "Serpentine Fire"
* "Fantasy"
* Jupiter"
* "Got to Get You into My Life"
* "September"
* "Boogie Wonderland" (with the Emotions)
* "After the Love Has Gone"
* "In the Stone"
* "Star"
* "Can't Let Go"
* "Let Me Talk"
* "You"
* "And Love Goes On"
* "Let's Groove"
* "Wanna Be with You"
* "I've Had Enough"
* "Fall in Love with Me"
* "Side by Side"
* "Magnetic"
* "Touch"
* "System of Survival"
* "Thinking of You"
* "Evil Roy"
* "Turn on (The Beat Box)"
* "Heritage" (with the Boys)
* "For the Love of You" (with MC Hammer)
* "Wanna Be the Man" (with MC Hammer)
* "Spend The Night"
* "Sunday Morning"
* "In the Name of Love"
* "When Love Goes Wrong"
* "September 99"
* "All in the Way" (with the Emotions)
* "Hold Me"
* "The Way You Move" (with Kenny G)
* "Show Me the Way" (with Raphael Saadiq)
* "Pure Gold"
* "To You" (with Brian McKnight)
* "Change Your Mind"
* "Guiding Lights"
* "My Promise"
* "Why"
* "Holidays"
* "You Want My Love" (with Lucky Daye)

Related articles|

* Ramsey Lewis
* The Pharaohs
* Joe Wissert
* Charles Stepney
* The Phenix Horns
* Earth, Wind & Fire Horns
* The Emotions
* Wayne Vaughn
* Chicago
* Kalimba Music

Lists|

* Discography
* Awards and nominations
* Tribute albums
* Personnel

* Category

* v
* t
* e

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Class of 2000

Performers|

* Eric Clapton
* Earth, Wind & Fire
* Philip Bailey, Larry Dunn, Johnny Graham, Ralph Johnson, Al McKay, Fred White, Maurice White, Verdine White, Andrew Woolfolk
* The Lovin' Spoonful
* Steve Boone, Joe Butler, John Sebastian, Zal Yanovsky
* The Moonglows
* Prentiss Barnes, Harvey Fuqua, Peter Graves, Billy Johnson, Bobby Lester
* Bonnie Raitt
* James Taylor

Early influences|

* Nat King Cole
* Billie Holiday

Non-performers
(Ahmet Ertegun Award)|

* Clive Davis

Sidemen|

* Hal Blaine
* King Curtis
* James Jamerson
* Scotty Moore
* Earl Palmer

Authority control databases

International|

* ISNI
* VIAF
* FAST
* WorldCat

National|

* Germany
* United States
* France
* BnF data
* Japan
* Italy
* Czech Republic
* Spain
* Netherlands
* Norway
* Sweden
* Poland
* Finland

Artists|

* MusicBrainz
* Grammy Awards

Other|

* IdRef
* SNAC
* Yale LUX

*[v]: View this template
*[t]: Discuss this template
*[e]: Edit this template