In Memoriam
Maurice White
December 19, 1941 – February 4, 2016 · aged 74
R&B · Soul · Funk · Disco
Maurice White was the visionary founder, principal songwriter, and co-lead singer of Earth, Wind & Fire, one of the most successful and critically acclaimed bands of the 20th century. Born in Memphis in 1941, White was originally a session drummer for Chess Records before moving to Chicago and forming his legendary ensemble. He masterminded a universally uplifting, cosmic fusion of funk, soul, jazz, Latin, and African rhythms, complete with elaborate stage shows featuring Egyptian motifs and magic tricks. Sharing vocal duties with Philip Bailey's soaring falsetto, White's warm tenor anchored timeless, joyful anthems like 'September,' 'Shining Star,' and 'Boogie Wonderland.' His intricate horn arrangements and deep, spiritual positivity brought an unprecedented level of sophistication to 1970s pop and R&B. Forced to stop touring in the 1990s due to a battle with Parkinson's disease, White remained the creative force behind the band until his death on February 4, 2016, at the age of 74. He left behind a legacy of pure, unadulterated musical joy.
Milestones
September, Boogie Wonderland, Shining Star
Also remembered in 2016
- David Bowie (1947–2016)
- George Michael (1963–2016)
- Leonard Cohen (1934–2016)
- Prince (1958–2016)