y'all know that I love Earth Wind and Fire,they are my favorite band.So,when I heard that they would be appearing on the Ellen DeGeneres show,I eagerly tuned in.Boy,was I disappointed!

First of all,what's up with the format of Ellen using a well-known musical act as her "house band",playing bits and pieces of their songs in-between the guest interviews? Does she do this with all of her musical guests? It was really sad to see a mighty band like EW&F being used that way.Even more insulting was the fact that one of her "superstar guests" was none other than Kathie Lee Gifford! She could have ditched the boring Gifford and interviewed EW&F instead...lol

But that's only part of the problem.I've seen EW&F in concert several times in recent years,and they always put on a wonderful show.When you have as many great songs as they do,it's not hard to come up with a hit-filled,memorable performance.But,who are all these strange people onstage with them?? What purpose does David B.Whitworth (short guy with the dreds) serve? And do we REALLY wanna see Robert Brookins singing the Maurice White parts at every performance?


Aside from that,the band just look tired.Philip Bailey is one of the greatest R&B singers of all-time,but on 'Ellen',he looked and sounded as if he needs to take a break.The thrill seems to be gone,and they look as if they're all just going through the motions.


In recent years,leader Maurice White has flirted with the idea of bringing the original members back for a reunion album and possible tour.That would be amazing to see! Imagine seeing the original 70s lineup again...


Maurice White
Philip Bailey
Verdine White
Fred White
Johnny Graham
Larry Dunn
Ralph Johnson
Andrew Woolfolk
Al McKay


I really think a full-fledged reunion could breathe new life into this band.Even if it was only for one album.

Sorry to hear that, David. Robert Brookins? God, please no. He's okay but he ain't Maurice White. I think I'm glad I didn't see this.

stymie said:

Yeah,Robert has been with the band for awhile now.He's a talented dude who once had his own solo career,but I just don't think he "fits" in EW&F.His vocals don't mesh well with Phil's,and it's really sad to see him taking the lead on songs like "Love's Holiday".

DavidEye said:

Ewww. Love's Holiday? I never want to hear him sing that.

Johnny Graham up there on guitar yesterday!!!

I doubt that the reunion thing will work. Maurice White is too sick for that. I met him about 7 years ago during a recording in LA, and he couldnt even move the levels with his fingers because his hands were shaking too much. That was some sad shit.

...would you mind...



-SWANGjustlistens