That's The Way Of The World

Gotta love this one

Great album

Achei muito bom, é uma vibe gostosinha de ouvir

Fun, iconic, timeless, etc.

lol. well this is an easy one. I think I'll just listen to this one because today, don't really need to do the full review stuff here. Other reviews are about to pmo though. **reviews weren't so bad. The low ones that call this album disco (it's not, not all black music in the 70s is disco you prick) remind me of that racist white girl from York that turned off EWF for some kinda crappy noisy screamo. I kinda do wanna go through each track but I dunno, it'll kinda screw the magic for me. The only thing I'll say is this: After reading his book a while back, I think Maurice White's upbringing in church and then subsequent leaving the place in favor of a much wider spirituality speaks to me in a way that I've never noticed. I've had a similar path so far, although not exactly the same. Eg: on All About Love, he sounds like Andre for some of the spoken word part. Otherwise, I'll leave it as one of my favorite albums and one that I've spun a million times. Immediate 5, of course. Grooves tight af, vocals perfect. Message clear as a bell and positive but not overly. Holy lord, Step on the arranging! I gotta take more of my orch stuff from him. None of my tunes even consider the orchestra. They will. My day was prime to suck ass but instead I'm smiling ear to ear listening to the title track at 7:20am. Thanks, my favorite band of all time for proving your goodness once again. Roland, won't you hear me now.

Every song a banger!

Какая приятная музыка, внезапно очень в меня попала. Вероятно, у меня нехватка классического соула в организме (нет души ахаха), иначе не могу объяснить не совсем рациональную любовь к этому альбому. От That's the Way of the World я вообще вознесся над этим бренным миром как идущий к реке. А Reasons внезапно оказался треком, который я давно люблю, но знал только в инструментально-джазовой версии. Только что узнал, что есть оригинал с вокалом, и он звучит даже интереснее. Наверно, не совсем это ожидаешь от создателей диско-шедевра September, но это 1975 год, и я не историк диско, но вроде эта эпоха еще только начиналась. И фирменные гитарки здесь хорошо слышны кажется только в открывающем треке. Тем не менее, эта группа прекрасно справляется и с соулом.

Love.

Buenísimo, muy groovy

FIRST DISCO/JAZZ ALBUM I lurved it and im a celeb samples one of the songs on here… very groovy loves it

Always such a vibe!

Loved this one to start saved a few to a favourites album for this

timeless really

expertly constructed soul masterpiece ooh yeah oh yeah oh yeah!!!

Absolute bop. Funk is probably my favorite genre so it's kinda fishing with dynamite with me here but it's just so good. There's bass...more bass...dance music...storytelling...other influences mixed in like pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz. Definitely recommend.

Loved the variety of songs and it was just a vibe

ok good first impression on the song I like the groovessss

Smooth

Enfin de la vraie musique YiiiiHAA

So good. That’s the way of the world. That’s how sunrise would have sounded like. The rest is also very good. Luxury selection of instruments. Singing also good.

Such a freakin jam. To have both incredible vocals as well as distinct and unique instrumentation is just such a blessing to the listener.

Hot damn! Earth, Wind & Fire are funky! I don't know why I only thought they had one song. This album is awesome. A couple songs on here that I didn't realize were EW&F. I need to listen to more of them. I'm between a 4 and a 5. I think the brevity of this album is going to give it that bump up to a 5.

I think this album is incredible—truly one of my all-time favorites. Every song makes me feel something different, and not a single track misses. What makes it even more special is the story of how I got the vinyl. I showed up to this record store tucked away in the basement of a building about an hour after it was supposed to open. When I walked down the stairs, it looked completely closed. As I headed back up, I ran into this disheveled man who turned out to be the owner. He let me in. True to the owner’s vibe, it was the most disorganized record store I’ve ever been in—boxes everywhere, vinyl literally spilling out onto the floor, stacks piled all the way to the ceiling. He asked what I was looking for, and I asked if he had any Earth, Wind & Fire. He pointed to the very first box by the entrance. Right on top: That’s the Way of the World. He told me he’d had it forever—first pressing—and started pointing out all the codes on the sleeve to prove it. He said no one had ever even picked it up, which I still don’t understand. Then he asked if I wanted to hear it. Of course I said yes. He walked me to the back of the room where his record player was teetering on an old shelf. He explained—very seriously—that it was set up that way to minimize vibrations messing with the audio. I know that’s a real thing, but this setup was so extreme that if you sneezed, the whole shelf might’ve collapsed. Still, he put the record on. And I swear to you, it was the clearest I’ve ever heard music. The sound poured out of these beat-up wooden speakers mounted in each corner of the room. It felt like Earth, Wind & Fire were standing right there, playing a private concert just for us. When the music drops out at the end of “Shining Star” and it’s just their voices—that moment will live in my head forever. It was pure euphoria. We listened to the album all the way through. When it ended, all I said was, “Wow. I’ll take it.” That’s when he proceeded to talk for the next hour (maybe longer) about his life in the music industry. Stories about run-ins with legendary artists, including, somehow, a fling with Elvis Presley’s mom (?)—or something along those lines. At a certain point it all blurred together and felt like a fever dream. Eventually, he ran out of breath and I jumped in, saying I probably needed to get on with the rest of my day. He asked if I had cash. I asked if I could pay with card—there was a card reader at the front. He laughed and said it hadn’t worked in years. I told him I’d run to get cash and come back, it was $10 and I only had $5, but he immediately cut me off. “No, no, no. Just take it,” he said. “It was a joy listening to the album and talking with you.” I gave him the $5 I had. We shook hands, which turned into a half-hug, and I left to catch the train. To this day, that’s the best music experience of my life. That vinyl is easily my most-played record—not just because I love the album, but because that random Saturday morning was as perfect as it gets. I’ll always associate the music with that day. Music might be the most universal bond people can share, and if that experience isn’t proof of that, I don’t know what is. So yeah—this album is a 5 in my book.

holy heck - best rec to start this off with

Its just kinda fun, first one of the set I would put on as more than passive listening. Whole album is just so chill The end of All about love is odd. I think if I added this to a playlist I'd skip it, but its kinda cool, just a weird intermission from the cohesive vibes of the rest of the album

Love earth wind and fore

love earth wint and fire!!! moet ik echt meer luisteren wejo

no skips! the songs on average are longer than present day songs and they never felt too long or like they got stale. the only songs i knew on this album were shining star (banger) and that’s the way of the world (also a banger). this album had me captivated with every song and i can’t believe i haven’t listened to it sooner. i need to get this on vinyl! no notes! they really ate with this. This album blends funk, soul, and a little bit of disco and a lot of the songs really want to make you move to the beat. Also Maurice Whites singing is beautiful and I love how they leave room for the instruments to shine with several periods where there is no singing and the focus is on the instrumentation. If they played this at a club I would sweat through my outfit cause i would be on that dance floor for sure

Excellent musicianship. Prefer the ballads but the instrumentals overall were amazing.

i liked the first portion of the album, essentially the last few songs are for cooldowns but overall its a nice disco album. 6/10

Finished

Excelente

Classic. Listened to this growing up with my moma

Has to be a 5 star surely?

Love love love

Never really listened to EWF before as never took them seriously, but this was brilliant just chilled out and grateful.

They are such a vibe. Also just seeing 'compact disc' on the album is so nostalgic

I was around when this album was released and listened to it a lot. Love this album. huge influence on my playing as a musician.

The best album. I loved the strings.

Bangers

I was a junior in high school when this album came out and the songs were everywhere. It’s hard for people listening to it for the first time today to understand how huge this album was at the time. This is not as some people have mentioned a disco album but rather a funk and soul album.

it s a really good album

Good fun

Great group, great sound, and music. Even better with ties to Denver. Sounded it great with all genres they would play, R&B, Disco, pop.

I am slowly being consumed by a love of the soul and funk of the late 60s and early 70s. This is a great listen. I had always associated EWT with their later disco stuff, but this rocks (funks?). A funky five.

A record I’ve loved for years. EWF totally in the pocket on this one.

The best

I won’t nitpick over how good this is. Today it had all the elements of a great album both times I listened to it. Refreshing to have songs whose length left me wanting more.

A real treat for the earholes.

loved it

This is such a fun album

First non-rock album in a while, and it's from these legends. I'm excited for this one. Shining Star is a classic. Super groovy banger. I would be surprised if people hadn't heard this one before. The title track is great. I enjoy the way they break it down about halfway through. This is a slower vibe, but I really like it. Happy Feelin' wasn't doing too much for me at first, then they got the steel drum involved and I said alright I see the vision. I also really like the sax on this one. All About Love is a beautiful little ballad. Halfway in he says I'm gonna rap to you, respect. We get some spoken word/rap going. I love it. He's talking about self-love, love of nature, love of the world. It's All About Love gang. Fuck with this song. Also really enjoyed the synth outro. The horns on Yearnin' Learnin' have a really infectious energy to them. This whole album has had me head boppin. Reasons is really great, but Africano stole the show for me. They're popping off on that fuckin saxophone. As a long-retired saxophonist it made me yearn for the days of old. I was bouncing along to this one nonstop. I really loved this album. It's short, sweet, no skips, and some really high highs. If that's not a 5 then I don't know what is.

This album is outta sight. Listen to the title track and know it was played at every school dance and roller rink that year. I remember hearing EW&F at the video game arcade when you still got 5 balls for a quarter on pinball. Asteroids was still pretty new. The old days. I've listened through a few times, this style of music with the horns and percussion is enjoyable to me. The album cover is odd. Why does the guy look like he's going up a skateboard ramp?

First time listening to an entire album from the group, liked the sound

a tight 38 minutes with endless energy throughout AND a sick xylophone solo? 5 stars

nice vibe

9/10 Nice to listen to

THIS hits the spot this Monday morning! It makes me just want to have sex and dance all day! SUPER FUN! I had only heard a couple songs by this band before today and knew the name of course but I had never heard a whole album, and MY GOD was I missing out! Funk. Check! Soul. Check! Rock. Check! Africano. Check! Groovy. Check, baby, CHECK! I just ordered a copy of That's the Way of the World on blue vinyl and will take a deep dive all week into their back catalog. I guess there is also a movie that uses this album as a soundtrack that I have never heard of but will look into today. Albums like this make all the bumps on the road of The 1001 Albums Journey worthwhile as it's highly unlikely I would have ever discovered this gem on my own. Bring on the day!

It was funky, it was smooth, it was an amazing listening experience

J'ai vraiment aimé ! Des sonorités bien groovy, j'avais jamais écouté un de leurs albums en entier et franchement belle découverte. 5/5

Super hudba, niečo medzi popom rockom a jazzom

Five stars. No notes. Just a whole lot of yessir

MILS. Man I Love Soul. todo lo q esta bien, y ni siquiera estan sus canciones mas conocidas.

Great album!

ОБОЖАЮ

EWF are definitely the supremest of funky funk soul bands and this one really kickstarts their classic era which lasts all the way up to 1981’s Let’s Groove. The band is just sensational from this point on - from the on point horns and many zesty layers of percussion, Larry Dunn on keys, Verdine White thunkin and a plunkin on bass or Maurice White getting down on kalimba. Phillip Bailey is the funkiest funk soul eunuch brother and you definitely get to feel his talents soar to giddy heights on the beautiful wailing second-half highlight Reasons. You have the two very special, star making hits right at the beginning and with other strong-uns like Yearnin Learnin and Happy Feeling it’s mainly top notch… right until the last two tracks which take their funky foot off the gas and have more a pondering jazz fusion thing going on. There are also some very freaky squiggly synth interludes which almost could have come from Boards Of Canada if they had afros. As great as this is overall I do consider the holy trinity of EWF to be The Best Of Earth, Wind & Fire Vol 1, I Am and Faces. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

I miss great crossover music.

Earth, Wind & Fire's 1975 album *That's the Way of the World* is widely regarded as a masterpiece of spiritual soul, notable for its uplifting themes, sophisticated musical fusion, and pristine production. While it has few discernible flaws, some critiques touch on its ambitious scope. | **Category** | **Details** | | :--- | :--- | | **Release Date** | March 15, 1975 | | **Label** | Columbia Records | | **Producer(s)** | Maurice White, Charles Stepney | | **Chart Performance** | #1 on Billboard 200; First multi-platinum smash | | **Singles** | "Shining Star" (#1 Pop), "That's the Way of the World" (#12 Pop), "Reasons" | ### 🎵 Musical Composition and Production The album's sound is a rich tapestry of diverse genres, seamlessly blending **funk, soul, jazz, gospel, and African music** into a cohesive and innovative whole. - **Instrumentation and Arrangement**: The band's large lineup allowed for a powerful and textured sound. Tracks are built on **Verdine White's melodic basslines** and **Larry Dunn's jazzy keyboards and synthesizers**. The songs are elevated by an **exuberant horn section** and Charles Stepney's sophisticated string arrangements, creating a sense of grandeur and soulful majesty. - **Vocal Performance**: A defining characteristic is the vocal contrast between **Maurice White's earthy baritone** and **Philip Bailey's soaring, superhuman falsetto**. This dynamic is used to great effect, particularly on ballads like "Reasons" and the title track. - **Production and Recording**: The album was recorded in about three weeks at the famed **Caribou Ranch in Colorado**. This secluded environment was highly conducive to creativity, with the band living and working together intensely. The production by Maurice White and Charles Stepney is clean and expansive, giving each instrument room to breathe while serving the song's spiritual message. ### 📝 Lyrical Themes and Message Lyrically, the album avoids simple love songs in favor of **philosophical and uplifting themes** centered on love, hope, and human nature. - **Hope and Resilience**: The title track presents the album's core message: while the world can corrupt innocence ("**Child is born with a heart of gold / The way of the world makes his heart so cold**"), the solution is to look inward for strength and "**plant your flower and you grow a pearl**". It argues that peace is found by staying "young at heart" despite a cold world. - **Love and Positivity**: Tracks like "Shining Star" encourage self-worth, while "All About Love" frames love as a beautiful, internal force to be shared. This consistent positivity is both disarming and inspiring. - **A Darker Undercurrent**: Some interpretations suggest the lyrics also touch on societal issues like **racism and intolerance** as forces that corrupt innocence, adding depth to the otherwise optimistic message. ### ✨ Influence and Legacy *That's the Way of the World* was a pivotal commercial and artistic breakthrough that cemented Earth, Wind & Fire's legacy. - **Breakthrough Success**: The album made Earth, Wind & Fire the first African-American group to top both the US singles and album charts simultaneously. "Shining Star" won a Grammy, and the album has been certified triple platinum. - **Enduring Impact**: The album established the definitive EWF template that would influence countless artists, including Prince. It is consistently included on lists of the greatest albums of all time. Its timeless message of hope ensures it remains relevant for new listeners. ### 👍 Pros and Cons #### Pros - **Musical Mastery**: The fusion of genres, exceptional musicianship, and inventive arrangements create a timeless and unique sound. - **Uplifting Theme**: The positive, philosophical lyrics offer a message of hope and resilience that transcends its era. - **Pristine Production**: The clean, expansive production allows every element of the complex compositions to shine. #### Cons - **Ambitious Scope**: Some critics might find the band's grand, positive ambitions occasionally sound a bit **noncommittal** or lack the gritty edge of other funk acts of the era. - **Perceived Imbalance**: A minor point, but the massive popularity of "September" has sometimes overshadowed the title track's acclaim in modern assessments, which some fans consider a travesty given the latter's quality. ### 💎 Final Verdict *That's the Way of the World* is a landmark album with very few weaknesses. It represents Earth, Wind & Fire at their creative peak, successfully executing a grand vision of **spiritual, uplifting music** through impeccable songwriting, performance, and production. Its cons are largely matters of stylistic preference rather than objective flaws. It is an essential listen for anyone interested in the best of 1970s soul, funk, and popular music.

Very funky album, I love this type of music!

This album is such a tonic in tough times.

5 Its Alive!!!

I like this one. Funky, smooth and just feels good

Drags a small bit with the ballads. But who gives a fuck. Earth, Wind & Fire and Tower Of Power occupy an almost completely isolated echelon of the funk genre, and this album is the perfect example of why. You just can’t. Not. Move. Fave songs: - Shining Star - That’s the Way of the World - Happy Feeling - Yearnin’ Learnin’ - Africano - See the Light

It's an amazing album from beginning to end

Fou banger, rien à dire

Loved it

top song: africano

Excellent album.

OMG If you want to know what Soul was like in the 70’s start with this album. A masterpiece

You can put whatever you want in the wrapper, and I will eat it and lick my fingers afterward.

Love the bass line on Happy Feelin.

Phenomenal!

Groovy AF

Macht gute Laune, die Lieder sind richtig schön und zwingen fasst dazu, dass man sich im Takt bewegt oder mitklatscht. Außerdem sind die Instrumente echt cool

bien funk bien sympa

Cool bass lines

A consistent beauty throughout.

Funk at it's best. Love me some Fire.

Earth, Wind and Fire is the GOAT!

This is what funk and soul is about. Makes me want to get up and move. A solid album with delicious harmonies and catchy melodies.

bomboclaat

Slick vocals, classic EWF

God

Lovely lyrics, the whole album has a vibe that just can’t be found anymore. The guitar work is phenomenal and stands out.

Il pleut des bangers ce mois-ci! Sept scores parfaits en 30 générations d’albums, du jamais vu! Peut-être qu’on a passé tout les mauvais albums de la liste pis il ne reste que le best du best? Le temps nous le diras, mais pour l’instant, attardons-nous sur le disco-funk d’EWF. C’est selon moi leur meilleur album (j’allais dire meilleur que Wild & Peaceful, mais ça c’est Kool & the Gang, ma faute, mon pêché), la balance soul et funk entre chaque tracks donne beaucoup de richesse et de variété à l’album, et on sens bien l’influence disco qui commence à s’emparer de la pop de l’époque. Bref, si tu veux être heureux, écoute l’album une fois par jour jusqu’à ce que la vilaine morosité t’ailles quitté, pis le ptit jesus va venir te faire des ptits bisou dans ton sommeil

Listened through three times. Upbeat, fun, funky soul that can turn your mood around. It’s a big band sound mixed with disco, and it’s done so well. A bit slower and love-ier than their big hits but damn does it hit, Reasons, That’s The Way of the World, See The Light.. Time to go buy the vinyl.

From the first time I heard them, I've loved them. A lot of good nostalgic memories tied to this album.

juste parfait

Lit.

A delightful journey into the world of funk that I enjoyed just as much as I thought I did. For a band that (in the public consciousness) is mainly known for singles, they sure could make a consistent record.

Music to light your body and mind.

Boooooooomb ass album.

Gold Jerry, Gold!

Such amazing music. Jams a plenty.

10/10 where all my EW&F sluts at?

It was great

That’s some upbeat, positive Funk that is! Familiar with Shining Star and That’s the Way of the World as both were big hits at the time. Hadn’t heard any of the other songs until this listen, but they’re all good. Africano near blew me away on first listen, by far the best cut on the album - jazzy and too long for mainstream radio, but still cool twenty five years later. Familiar with EWF, but this album really took me by surprise. (4.7*s) should have ended with Africano…

Got distracted halfway through Happy Feelin' then made 100 crab rangoons with my friend alex. When I got back I restarted from that one. I don't remember any of the songs. I liked it. 10/10

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah...How you feelin? Classic Lp, Amazing band.

Not a single bad track. A very engaging and memorable listening experience!

shining star isch extreeem geil. aso i kenns obvio aber baaaaanger mann. thats the way of the world sooo guet! chranks solo soo guet uiiii. happy feelin und all about love chlii weniger geil aber mueni glaub nomel lose. yearnin learning wieder soo es geils arrangement. und sini stimm isch soo geil well sie so krass duresticht. reasons wieder en ballad woni bim erste mol chli schnulzig find aber die chooords aaaaaaaah. oke nai d blöser slapped hert i love it. africano isch de titel? okay. aha s goht insane dumm? okay. see the light wieder falsetto time und huere fusion mässig? WAS MACHEDS IHR? hä?? aha jetz strophe noch 1.5 minute. und was sind die harmonie im refrain??

Stone classic. Takes me back to, like, summer of '77, windows rolled down in the Beetle, feeling the breeze cut the heat, doing the airplane thing with my arm out, and "Shining Star" comes on KJR and... "yeahhh... YEAHHHH..."

Although I’d heard this album before it was still a great listen all about love is my favourite song and Philip baileys singing on reasons hitting those high notes falsetto I think.

Now this is what I'm talking about! What an album. My dad always loved them and played them all the time.

Fucking kick ass. Some of my favorite bass playing ever. The songs production and performances are just top top top top tier

Pretty magical

What a treat. Holy shit I don't even know where to star-t. This album is stunning down to every last detail, Philip absolutely ate to his heart's content on this thing. One of the best funk albums without a doubt. Maybe I'm the cheesy one and maybe shit just hit me when I needed it too but I loved every song on this album. Wonderfully rich passages, triumphant horns, gorgeous group vocals, intimate spoken word sections to impart wisdom and love. Could just be my bias towards spiritual woowoo stuff too but this album does it right and gentle. Every song is super tight, I didn't have any that became drags or anything like that. I definitely consider myself a proper Earth, Wind & Fire fan now. The transitions are perhaps not the smoothest ever but I can forgive that because the songs themselves are super strong tunes without needing to meld too much. The vocals can be as fierce as a laser beam but if you saw the dripped out album cover I'm sure you can excuse the power on display here. Immaculate.

Great funk sound. Groovy, interesting, exciting, danceable.

Damn good

I have a positive prejudice towards these guys. I loved it.

This is just perfectly fun. Who the hell am I to have notes on this?

Nice!

5 estrelas . Funk funk funk !!! Verdine White rules! Bailey and M.White sublimes! "That's the Way of the World" foi 'chupada' pelo cara de pau canastrão de uma figa do LKravitz kkkk // "Africano" é um track típico de filme blacksploitation //

Super-smooth grooves... So smooth that this album just about slides its way to a five-star rating, even though there are a couple of tracks I'm not so keen on.

No wonder they are so iconic, this album is a great intro to Earth, Wind & Fire -- I really only knew September and Shining Star, so I am glad that I got more. The vocals are killer, incredible range, and the songwriting is super solid. The lyrics are so incredible and have a lot more meaning than the upbeat instrumental. The horns, drums, and bass are crazy on every single song. I want the instrumental injected in my veins, honestly. I am quite obsessed with the feeling this album brings on -- warm energy, dance, and positive vibes. They captured a beautiful summer evening into an album. **Africano may be my favorite track on this album. It's hard to pick a favorite, as this album is overall so groovy. **Another notable favorite is That's the Way of the World - I love the lyrics, and they especially speak to me at this moment in my life. **Help Them See the Light reminds me of the awakening of many Americans under the Trump dictatorship. I hope that we all can continue to help everyone see the light. In all aspects, political, emotional, and spiritual. I give this album 10/10! Starting the ratings off high.

Classic. Love every bit every time.

LOVE this band. Great upbeat and funky soul here. Impossible not to move when you hear this.

Duh

Really fantastic listen. Groovy and engaging, with plenty of iconic songs and a few hidden gems. Surprisingly sophisticated arrangements that meld together in the best way. Great album with no real weak spots

Enjoyed listening to this album. Great sound.

4.5/5.0: Excellent

fun listen

Fire album. Very relaxed.

An amazing album. Only knew 3 songs but was unaware the album had less than 10 songs which is even more impresive. Super talented band and experimental adding instruments no one else was using in the funk music. Pretty impressed and happy to know this album exists.

groooovey babeyy

flippin' great. 5

Koji vrhunski album, naježim se. Africano i Happy Feeling apsolutni favoriti, a mogla bih u krug slušati ovaj album još puno puta. ♥️ 5/5, 9/10

gotta hit ‘em with the easy 5

Pre-listening thoughts: fantasy is genuinely one of my favorite songs oat but it’s not on this one 😞 but still I am excited!!! Post/during listening thoughts: good lord I love this band. Horns! Slappy bass and guitar! HARMONIES! The smoothest instrumentation known to man. Funk and disco continue to impress me at every turn. 9.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: yes! But also everyone go listen to fantasy even tho it’s super popular it’s so good pls!!! Fav tracks: Shining Star, Happy Feelin’, Reasons (god this one was no skips too! I did try my best to pick some favorites fr tho) Least fav tracks: n/a

Did they released any bad albuns?

Loved it! Cool and funky

Happy feelin' is such a good vibe. Africano is SO FUNKY. YES. Shining Star is a classic.

Great classic from EWF

Shit's fire Fun, energetic, emotional. Totally replayable, listened to it 3 times in a row, and never was i bored. Top

Really nice harmonies from a pioneering disco group.

Just killer from start to finish

I don't even gotta listen this is a 5/5 I love this shit. Obviously I'm still gonna listen to it cause I'm just too groooOOOoooOOOoooOOOoooOOOoooOOOoooooooovy baby. All About Love and Reasons are probably my favorite on the album, but overall this album is a hit and a bop and an all around top. I am lost in the funk

I've spent many hours trying to hit the high notes on Reasons, and I always have fun doing it. Truly one of the best soul/funk albums ever released. It's criminal that this album is their only inclusion on this list. I Am should be on here too.

Man this album is just too good. Opening with Shining Star feels like cheating because it's such a well known song, but I've never really paid attention to the music of it, and it is a truly special song. The bass is going crazy in the chorus and I'm glad it came up here. I loved pretty much everything here, with Happy Feelin' as another standout. Also shoutout to A Love Supreme, as the main riff from that shows up at the end of Africano, and I never would have known without this journey.

Amazing playing, great funky jams and experimental jaunts. Extremely fun and listenable.

Short, sweet, funky, soulful, romantic, inspiring and cheerful.

Loveee Earth, Wind & Fire!! September is my fave song by them so it was nice to hear others.

honestly a great album front to back funky soulful and good sounding and well produced and makes me feel positive energy's 8/10

Not sure I would have picked this one and not 1978's "The Best Of Earth, Wind & Fire Vol.1", but the run of albums by Maurice White and Co. in the mid-1970s rules supreme. A funky Wonderland you want to stay in forever.

I'm deeply amused that this album was born the same year I was, and I loved it.

Like a velvet robe

BANGER AFTER BANGER AFTER BANGER!!! The instrumentals were crazy! That ariel under the water like shaking percussion idfk THAT WAS MIND ALTERING

So so good

Cool

Funky. Classic album so far (first three tracks) "Africano" fuckin rips. Easy and fun album to listen to.

A fun album! No tracks that I know them for but fun nonetheless. Fun instrumentals and vocal work. 'Happy Feelin'' is my choice for a fave.

Groovy as all hell - the musicianship is off the charts.

Now this is a 5 star album for sure. Everything about it is phenomenal.

só fucking good. all types of different rhythm and grooves. Yearnin Learnin drums are fantastic

5/5 Shining Star's infectious optimism and groove begins the album with a short, sweet bang, before the title track is majestically chill. Happy Feelin' is just what is says on the tin, full of positivity, with great bass work, and All About Love is a touching ballad, with a real introspective talk which I love, and a fantastic synth-filled outro. The second side starts well with Yearnin' Learnin', before the falsetto dominated Reasons slaps. The movements of Africano are really great, and then See the Light finishes us off with a heavenly number. Overall this is an amazing, consistent but varied album. Shining Star 5/5 (FAV) That's the Way of the World 5/5 Happy Feelin' 5/5 All About Love (First Impression) 4.5/5 (LEAST FAV) Yearnin' Learnin' 4.5/5 Reasons 5/5 Africano 4.5/5 See the Light 5/5

Great album

Was going to give this a 4 but bumped it to a 5 after another listen. This is a brilliant record, perfect mix of soul with some funk and jazz elements. Singing is great, bass guitar is fantastic throughout. Definitely an experimental soul album that lands perfectly

STRAIGHT CLASSIC!!!

Just an amazing funk r and b album. So listenable.

Como me gustaría ser negro

Great album! 5 Stars. Most of these songs I first heard from their live album, Gratitude, which I bought new in middle school. Grabbed this album shortly after I saw them live in the Seattle Coliseum in the mid 70’s. Bell Bottom pants over heels, rayon disco shirt with a print of surfers under a setting sun, dancing until the sweat spun off my brow… a moment of childhood bliss! I broke a few needles playing these records, later transferring to cassette, then bought the CDs. Now I stream them as regulars. The originals still sit in the stack, damn near unplayable. But I’ll probably own them til they put me under.

Top Notch. The BEST Show Band in the WORLD! Yes, they are still doing it.

Extremely perfectly made. Harmonies are excellent. I see where the influence goes from fleetwood mac to thundercat.

8/10 es bastante parecido a kool and the gang, creo que seguiré escuchando earth, wind & fire, me gustó

Pretty cool!

What a freaking album this one is. So many hits from “Shining Star” to “Reasons”. EWF and just a legendary act that never fails to impress during their prime. I was getting up to dance at times, and others just sitting on the couch swaying my body back and forth. A must listen!

Can't beat a bit of 70's funk and soul. Love the distinctive sound of Earth Wind and Fire.

Classssix

Sooo groovy - I was in a fantastic mood for the rest of the day, no traffic jams would annoy me and that is priceless

4/5

Immaculate

There's no world where this doesn't get 5*s from me

Earth wind and fire is goated 10/10

Damn cuz this thing groovin from start to finish!

Perfect.

Amazing quality for both a pop funk and soundtrack record Tons of instruments, wide variety of sounds/genres, surprises everywhere, epic opening track, excellent track sequencing… what else do I need to say? I got through this 3 times already. Not tiring at all as I notice different things each time.

Thought this would be way cornier, but man it’s good. Smooth vocals, rippin’ horns, and dialed production. Hits multiple genres without feeling disjointed. I had probably heard Shining Star but everything else was new to me. Highlights are Yearnin’, Africano, and All About Love. No misses in my book. Hook of Shining Star sounds like Virtual Insanity by Jamiroquai, and That’s the Way of the World sounds so much like It Ain’t Over Til it’s Over. Side note, I had no idea that was a Lenny Kravitz song from 1991 - would have pegged it as a much older Motown song. Saw that Miles said EWF was his favorite band - that’s high praise. Giving a bump for that and because this is our 100th album! Now I’m thinking about that photo of Lenny Kravitz’ hog popping out of his ripped leather pants.

What else can I say about this album that hasn't already been said? Earth, Wind & Fire are some of the best musicians. Great dance music with a positive and uplifting message. They were brought to this earth to raise the vibration and bring us back to one another.

Soul and funk aren’t usually my go-to genres, but this album has become one of my favorites from that realm. It’s a great mix of soul, funk, and jazz. The soul really stands out on the ballads, while the upbeat, funky tracks add positivity and groove. The jazz element gives it a free-spirited feel, and with the lush arrangements and themes of hope and unity, the whole album sets an uplifting, joyful tone.

This album made me happy on a really bad day. I have always loved their sound.

absolute fire. short but has all the groove you need in 38min.

a crazy and funky pop album from one of the most eclectic bands from the 70s. combining some bossa, latin, gospel, and a few dreamy stabs and drum lines. many people of course are quick to think of tracks like september and the like, but i feel like this is a good example of why you shouldn't always just mindlessly flock to the top hits. an arguably graceful and fantastic funk album, this is. this album could save a life.

EWF were them ones, had no idea they did Shining Star. So much soul in every song, but different variations of soul that each song feels different, but with so much love and passion put into them like with All About Love.

Awesome!!

Awesome album.

Love it!

Quick album! Never dragged thoufh

A soul classic. Shining Star is ubiquitous but there is not a bad track on the whole thing.

9/10! This was such a feel-good album, as always with EWF a precise hornline, great songs, and a very unique sound. I enjoyed every song on here and the album has a lot of replayability.

I love this album, partly because it’s imprinted in my DNA like a baby duck stuck to its mother. Growing up every summer we would drive the 600+ miles to visit family in Pennsylvania, and almost religiously, my parents would play this album and other R&B classics during the long drive. And it never got old. To me, it’s EWF’s ability to have this be so clearly an expression of African-American cultural appreciation and positivity, yet never insular or unwelcoming for anyone else. And it’s tight; less than 40 minutes in total, yet absolutely engaging in the musical journey it takes you on. Easy five star for me, even with the childhood bias called out.

This album is SO fun! It is funky, positive, and makes me want to smile. Really enjoyed it.

I don’t think I knew any Earth, Wind & Fire songs outside of September and Boogie Wonderland, before listening to That’s The Way Of The World. And I think that’s a shame. I was pretty amazed by this album; the Jazz influence was clear, which I adored, and the songwriting and performances were top notch throughout. I will definitely be looking out for more Earth, Wind & Fire now

I love this album.

I admittedly did not listen to this as thoroughly as I would’ve liked but I really enjoyed it and would definitely return to it. I like that I can hear the influence of jazz here; I know that jazz obviously was a precursor to R&B but I feel like on this album I can really Hear it in a way I haven’t been able to hear it before (specifically on “Yearnin’ Learnin’” and “Africano”).

Fantastic album; so much funk, soul, and R&B. Superb instrumentals and even better vocals. 9/10.

Damn funky and bonus points for the mallets! This band is always so much fun. Love it.

Bill, you’re taking too long. This album is gold. 5/5

I remember in the early 80's a friend was a huge fan of Earth,Wind & Fire, we would hang out in his room reading comic books while listening to this record and others. I can only feel better after listening to any album by Earth, Wind & Fire.

Yearnin' Learnin' is an awesome song. I'm moving my entire body in my office chair. This album was super smooth. Lots of variety in the songs and a great run-time. I wasn't bored for one second. 9/10

Super chill and easy listening. This album came at exactly the right time.

Amazing. Funk has really grown on me since getting it on this challenge, and the upbeat, brassy groove on this album is so infectious, I came back to this album three or four times today after the first listen.

Good album added to my library

All the right vibes

Really enjoyed this one

Favorite

fuck it 5 stars

Another group I know.

5/5

Superb. Made me feel bad for any other album I’ve given five stars to. So good.

All time

Legendary

I saw Earth, Wind & Fire at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium which used to be a church & the original Grand Ole Opry. It was one of the most memorable live music experiences of my life. They played several songs from this album & it was incredible. What a nice day I had after listening to this album.

“All About Love” was my favorite! Such a great album, good feelings all around. They’re doing their thing and it’s beautiful.

5 Shining Stars!

Day 18 of listen to 1001 albums, one album at a time. Earth, Wind and Fire known how to make music that just makes you want to dance. Every song on this album just brings a smile to my face. It is so impressive with a perfect blend of funk, pop, disco, r&b, and soul all rolled into one. Truly a great album.

Holy freaking moly this album was good. Only a few seconds into the first track I could tell that I was going to enjoy this. Funky guitar? Check. Funky bass? Check. Then the trumpets! Everything here is great from front to back. I’m not sure if anything here was on the soundtrack to Undercover Brother but it made me nostalgic for that film. Especially Africano - that track felt straight out of a detective movie. This is an easy 10/10 for me.

After the monologue in All About Love it's clear to me that Earth, Wind & Fire know exactly what they're doing when they make such fun and uplifting music. It felt really special. All in all great fun with some truly epic falsetto

I prefer «In the Stone», and I feel like this is 1001 albums trying to sneak in some Yatch Rock while still feeling cool. But come on, this is still amazing!

very nice

Brings me into the best mood no matter how upset I can be, this album brings you higher and you cant help but feel the absolute joy of making music and being in the moment.

Incredibly enjoyable and funky all the way through. Their use of different instruments and incredible vocals feels so fresh even today. Loved Reasons and Happy Feeling the most

Well done album, they have a great sound and was happy listening to each and every track.

LOOOOOVE

Cold

REASONS

This is an amazing album!

funk

Eight tracks from the masters of the funk soul genre. The whole ensemble is magic, but the brass section and the bass are particularly electric and captivating. Pure enjoyment. Stand out tracks include “Shining Star,” “Happy Feelin’”, “Yearin’ Learnin’”, “Reasons”, and “Africano”.

Groovy. Took me for a ride. Loved the brass section.

A soul funk stomper every bit as great as sly and pfunk.

Okay, here's the thing--All 'n All and Raise are both better albums by EWF, but since this is the only one of their albums on the list it's a 5. Nothing beats these guys IMO and they took funk/dance to another level, sort of combining the feel of Stevie Wonder with the sound of Parliament Funkadelic. Every album is a party and smooth as hell--also, they're still touring (RIP Mo White). I wouldn't normally suggest this, but putting their Greatest Hits Album on this list would completely make sense and I would recommend anyone enjoying this album go to the albums I mentioned or the Greatest Hits and you're welcome!

I'm pretty certain that I've never listened to this album... but Reasons was already on my favorite list. I'm not sure how or why, but I did recognize that song. This was just a blast all the way through, some good keys works on a few songs, generally slammin' band tracks, and absolutely top-notch vocals.

Awesome album.

Love me some EWF

Amazing album. Uplifting with incredible singing and musicality.

Excellent album. Very groovy music and fun to listen to.

4+4

I think this is one of the sexiest albums that's ever been written. All About Love is a highlight, but it really exposes the struggles of 1970s recording technology with a lot of clipping on the drums and trumpets. That's kind of part of the charm though.

immaculate vibes

I LOVE EARTH WIND AND FIRE!!!! i’ve never heard this album though and i definitely wasn’t disappointed!

Great positive lyrics accompanied by a power house of pop/funk music. I grew up with this sound, and it keeps touching my heart.

Love EWF! Favorite Songs: All of them!

Outstanding. Everything about it from the writing to the musicianship.

so creative and funky - the jazz and disco fusion is so wonderfully unique and has never really been replicated to my knowledge. unbelievable album.

1 star: dull rubbish 3 stars: alright, good as back ground, wouldn’t save it to my playlist 5 stars: it really caught me, a great experience, I will listen to again and again OMG! What an experience! I have always avoided EW&F (due to a preconceived notion that I don’t like funk), but This album has got some wonderful messages of self empowerment and love. Very special. While I might not save any of the tracks in my play list, I’m giving it a 5 for the positive vibes, All about Love actually gave me tears

BANGER

It’s impossible to listen to this music and not smile. Absolutely wonderful. I was surprised at the Africana elements at the end but that too was a cool additional element to this deep soul experience.

Truly a beautifully made album. Great production and instrumentation, plus the singing is top notch. Crazy this was made as "just" a movie soundtrack

I AM a shining star!!

5/5 record!! Perfect soul/funk album, full of life and love

Great dance music

I don't have too much to say about this album. This is another example of me not realizing how many songs by an artist I already know. Call it ignorance, or call it me taking this band and their music for granted. This band so well encapsulates the 70's funk, and some hot disco too.

This review may be a bit biased as I'm already a fan of EW&F, but this album is one of their best. Just gets that funky 70s sound absolutely right. From the good groovy dancing songs to the slowed heart-felt ballads.

What's not to love!

I knew "Shining Star" going into this and wasn't expecting a whole lot but out of all the funk albums we've been listening to this past week or so this one was by far my favorite. Great upbeat songs to lead off in the beginning before things get stranger towards the end, culminating with a great finale. Fuck it, it's a 5.

Had always heard they were a singles band and listened accordingly but wow this is just top tier funk and would throughout

fuck yeah this is what music is about

Great album!

Beautiful

Serious baby makin' Dad Yacht Funk, so you'll probably need to be in the right mood, but this is excellent even if it feels a little front loaded. A very tight and fun album with some nice surprises with the kalimba and keyboard work. Forgetting this was a soundtrack, I was hoping to hear vocals on 'Afrocano' but oh well. Gonna go ahead and round this one up.

Such a smooth and groovy album so far! Song 5/8 now

Pretty good. Was expecting somewhat cookie cutter 70s corporate stuff but there were some experimental things here as well.

Funk and old school fun.

This is a really nice album. I had only listened to September by Earth, Wind & Fire before, but some of these songs are just as good!

Funky, what a groove. Shining Star is such a great first track.

Pegadizo para bailar y ponerte enérgico con vibras positivas

No need to listen to any other funk bands, I’ve reached the climax of funk. 10/10

Harmony. This is the music they play when you find out you made it to heaven and so did your friends and family. In addition to just sounding good, this group has an emphasis on sending a good message through their lyrics which is a huge plus in my book. “Reasons” and “All about Love” are favorites. 9/10

Funky. Earth Wind & Fire are just so fucking good and smooth to listen to. Honestly the better the album is the less I have to say about it 9/10

This is the funk I crave. Inject this directly into my veins. I must become the funk. Banger album filled with bangers. I loved every song and find no faults in this masterpiece. Actually sad when it ended and I wanted more. 10/10

One of the greatest funk groups of all time. Some songs are new to me, as I've surprisingly never listened to a full album of theirs other than the '05 Illuminations album. It doesn't disappoint. Verdine White's bass playing is fantastic, and the horn section is on point. 5/5!

the whole thing is such a vibe not a single miss!! each song offers smth different, and much of the time that funk guitar is do smooth and the brass on top makes it so shiny — like a thinner big band sound. i adore it. - shining star - reasons

Outstanding. Definitely needed to hear this today, got me dancing 🕺

LOVED!

one of my fav groups. Shining star is a classic.

some of the best music ever recorded

So funky. I really liked it! I also liked the messages that the music conveyed. :)<3

Amazing. This should be in my rotation.

There a reason this band is the major elements of existence. This album is in fact ALL THE THINGS. It covers classic r&b, kicky funk, and elevated groove, seemingly effortlessly, and somehow IS the 70’s without all the parts of the 70’s that feel cringe now. For extra points listen while roller skating.

Funky bass line and good rhythm

There is something really fun, about a large collection of truly excellent musicians. They have their vibe down 100%. The bass work is great in particular. And they are confident in who they are, and it rules. The album starts with what most millennials know as "the Superbad song". The album slows down a bit in the later tracks. But overall, I loved it.

Fun funk/soul album to listen to but on the shorter side. Loved the latter half of the album, it felt so creative. Definitely something I'll come back to.

It comes out the gate swinging a hits a grand slam of funky goodness. It’s a masterclass of bass playing and a shining example of how tender and exciting this genre can be

Shining Star- 4.8/5 That's the Way of the World- 5/5 Happy Feelin'- 5/5 All About Love- 4.3/5 Yearnin' Learnin'- 4.6/5 Reasons- 4.8/5 Africano- 4.2/5 See the Light- 4.7/5 Total- 4.7/5

Great first listen, would listen again

Wonderful album!!

#2

Earth, Wind & Fire, soul, disco & funk.

Starting the album off with Shining Star is fantastic, gets the energy pumping from the get go.l this whole album is so full of soul, not normally my genre of choice but they make it accessible.

Quite classy and sassy ;)