The seminal group Earth, Wind & Fire has been making music for 35 years—longer than many of today's 'hotter' artists, including Usher and Amerie, have been alive. Showing no signs of slowing down, the band released its 23rd career album, Illumination, Sept. 20.
Illumination showcases an all-star array of producers and guest artists. Black Eyed Peas leader Will.I.Am wrote and produced 'Lovely People' while legendary producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are behind the singles 'Pure Gold' and 'Love Dance'. In addition, Grammy Award-winner Raphael Saadiq ( of Tony Toni Tone ) produced four songs on the CD, including 'Show Me the Way'.
However, those are not the only acts helping out EW&F. Singer Brian McKnight is featured on To You, female poetry/soul duo Floetry takes part in Elevated and famed saxophonist Kenny G guests on a cover of OutKast's The Way You Move.
EW&F is one of the most important and influential bands of the past few decades. Besides selling millions of records, the act has achieved five No. 1 R&B albums, eight No. 1 R&B singles ( including September and Shining Star ) and eight Top 10 pop albums. In addition, the group has won eight Grammy Awards and was even inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.
