EARTH, WIND AND FIRE Maurice White - vocals, drums, kalimba/ Verdine White - bass/ Philip Bailey - vocals, congas, percussion/ Larry Dunn - keyboards/ Al McKay - guitars, percussion/ Johnny Graham - guitar, percussion/ Andrew Woolfolk - saxophones, flute/ Ralph Johnson - drums, percussion/ Fred White - drums/// Special Guest Artists: George Bohanon - Trombone/ Oscar Brashear - Trumpet/ Charles Stepney - Moog Synthesizer/ Ernie Watts - Saxophones/

Overall****: When EW&F entered the studio to begin recording "That' the Way of the World" late in 1974, they had just finished a very successful tour. Even opening up in Madison Square Garden for Sly Stone, the night he became married. Drummer, Fred White (Maurice and Verdine's younger brother) joined the group in the midst of this tour, giving EW&F two drummers (actually three when new studio music was involved) and further enhancing the group's stage presence. Importantly, the core members had been constantly touring and recording since late 1972, so they had established a good feel for each other and the chances of recording a successful album were high. EW&F recorded far and beyond a good album. Beginning with the elaborate funk of "Shining Star" to the Gospel-tinged mid-tempo ballad "See the Light". The album includes three of the most recognizable songs from the 70's decade, but the other five songs can hold their own agains't much of the music from that era as well. The format seemed simple, Fast, slow, fast, slow etc. However, each song is so distinct it doesn't matter what tempo it is. EW&F employed full horn and string sections for the first time since recording "Last Days and Time" in 1972. White and Bailey distinguished themselves more as great vocalists. The influence of Charles Stepney is written all over. It's evident in the sweet melodies and extremely effective arrangements.The African influence is noticeable as well with the throbbing percussion in most of the uptempo music. "That's the Way of the World" is multi-platinum, and as EW&F continues to attract new listeners the numbers will continue to climb for this landmark work of art!

Head to the Sky album

Open Our Eyes album

Part 2.) The Ultimate Earth, Wind & Fire Review SIte and Discography (1970-1984)

CLICK ON TITLES

Album:
That's the Way of the World: Released March, 1975. Number 1 U.S. album charts.



Singles:
1. Shining Star/ Yearnin',Learnin': Released, February, 1975. Number 1, R&B charts. Number U.S. Hot 100. 2. That's the Way of the World/ Africano (instrumental): Released, June 1975. Number 5 R&B charts. Number 12, U.S. Hot 100.