By Patricia Britt
It’s written in the stone of our hearts that Earth Wind and Fire is one of the greatest groups in the universe, with phenomenal stage presence. Ralph Johnson simmered on percussions keeping legendary rhythms alive. EWF played around 20 songs from their marvelous catalog. EWF stands the test of time, because the timeless compositions that touch the human spirit, and rocks the soul through all it's evolutions.
Philip Bailey’s Reasons falsetto is more impeccable than any recording can ever project, and his baritones pierce the heart! The band’s harmony in Devotion, and After the Love is Gone was astounding. Verdine White (Maurice White's brother) lit up the night with Serpentine Fire! Philip played the Kalimba a small hand held instrument operated with the thumbs somewhat like a mini xylophone.
The diverse audience sang a song from beginning to end on their feet grooving with the past, and present tracks. “No matter who you are your dreams will take you very far oh yea … baba wayo wayooooooooooo …. Ba de yade yaaaaaaaa.” The angelic harmony’s of You Can’t Hide Love were sensational. That’s the Way of the World with Phillip Bailey’s son being groomed to carry on in the tradition of his exceptional father.
Philip Bailey expressed gratitude to God first, and foremost. The instrumental Kalimba, Would You Mind, and Keep Your Head To the Sky are unequaled tracks that set the standard for numerous CD’s. Their most recent CD is sure to enchant with new instrumentals to mesmerize. I didn’t get a chance to meet one of the 10 best vocalists of our time, however to hear the vibes in the electrified atmosphere with a full moon is an experience to treasure. EWF is one group anyone who loves music should see at least once. And you might just be lucky enough to get one of Ralph’s drum sticks thrown into the crowd at the end of the concert! Maybe we can get EWF back in Michigan to perform at one of Detroit’s great musical venues like Chene Park some September.
Philip Bailey has his autobiography on sale at Amazon.com entitled “Shining Star: Braving the Elements of Earth Wind & Fire." Part of the proceeds go to his Music is Unity charity. “I believe when foster youth come into the system, we all have a responsibility to ensure that they have quality lives and have the same opportunities that we want for our own children. Foster youth are struggling. We can all take action to help.” – www.musicisunity.org, www.philipbailey.com
Let’s give back and read his book for all EWF, and this man has given us for 42 years.
EWF had CD’s on sale at the venue: Now Then Forever & the Greatest Hits
www.larrydunnmusic.com former EWF keyboardist & musical director.
www.commongroundfest.com is an annual music festival in Lansing, Michigan held in mid July.
Copyright 2014 Zimation Arts& Letters Ink
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