I absolutely love this book and thank Maurice White for giving this book to the World, as he appropriately said to his as-told-to author, as his “final album.” I am so thankful that he had the foresight and wisdom to leave a printed-form document for us who loved him, and his music, as a final tribute and dedication. Be the first to ask a question about My Life with Earth, Wind, & Fire. Music often falls on the ears of the naive who never sit down and think of the brilliance it takes to compose a 4-minute song; we often just enjoy a nice melody and groove. A fantastic look at Maurice White's life and the motivation behind Earth, Wind & Fire. Five stars for the story, three stars for the writing. Just seeing the titles of the song book this group had, brought back a time when I was carefree and innocent. My Life with Earth Wind, and Fire is an intimate, moving, and beautiful memoir from a man whose creativity and determination carried him to great success, and whose faith enabled him to … I had already loved the singles, "Think about love" and "Evil" but the album had me in love with almost every song! I liked the dignified manner in which the story was told. This is a most outstanding book! Part II Between The Vision and the Fulfillment, Part III To Sing our Message Loud and Clear, 17 Musical and Spiritual Progressives 209, 18 The Best of My Love at the Best of Times 216, 34 Time Will Witness What the Old Folks Say 347, White's book is practically a how-to manual for leading a band. Little song lyrics can be so powerful, I'm glad I was able to read about how it all started until he how lost his battle with Parkinson's disease. Maurice White was an American singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, arranger and bandleader. The author did a wonderful job in conveying Maurice White's character and voice - his beliefs, philosophy, and spirituality, while providing an interesting account of his life before, during and after EWF's suc. White’s health had declined in the last few months as a result of a long battle with Park… After reading this book, I really wish I had seen them in concert! (Note: I really enjoyed the narrator on this as well. I was in 5th grade when shining star was a hit. The Grammy-winning founder of the legendary pop/R&B/soul/funk/disco group tells his story and charts the rise of his legendary band in this sincere memoir that captures the heart and soul of an artist whose groundbreaking sound continues to influence music today. And beginning ... Help kids with their math skills plus their reading skills with the engaging and fun MathStart series!Young ... Help kids with their math skills plus their reading skills with the engaging and fun MathStart series!Young A look into the life of Maurice White and the career of Earth Wind & Fire. For some reason this book was a little disappointing! A wonderful insight into the mind and life of Maurice White. This was a fascinating, in-depth narrative of the two decades over which White elevated the band from a struggling act to a multi-million-selling supergroup. In Deutschland waren ihre erfolgreichsten Stücke September und Boogie Wonderland. You can view Barnes & Noble’s Privacy Policy. Makes a big difference when you enjoy the voice, cadence and relatability of the narration.). What one gets with this book is a man who is not just a musical genius, but who took the time to both observe and learn all that he could about life, in general, and this just happens to come out in his music. Maurice White, co-founder and leader of the groundbreaking ensemble Earth, Wind & Fire, died Thursday at his Los Angeles home. It released in 2016. Photo: Getty Images His descriptions of how he wrote or co-wrote some of the world's most popular songs is also very interesting. Thank you for sharing your God given talents with the world and allowing everyone to enjoy your legacies. Maurice a definitely someone to look up to as a role model for today's youth. Narrated by Dion Graham. He founded the legendary group Earth, Wind & Fire and served as its main songwriter and record producer, and as its co—lead singer. Just a moment while we sign you in to your Goodreads account. At last, the band’s founder, Maurice White, shares the story of his success. White won seven Grammys, and was nominated for 21 Grammys in total. Use up arrow (for mozilla firefox browser alt+up arrow) and down arrow (for mozilla firefox browser alt+down arrow) to review and enter to select. Thanks to my late mother (the 2nd biggest fan), their music has been a part of the soundtrack of my life for 42 of the 47 years I've been on the planet. I enjoyed reading the stories of how some of their best songs were written. I grew up hearing their music of course as had anyone born in my era (early 70's) but it was not until much later that I began to perceive another layer to their music as I started taking in their lyrics, and realised the deeply spiritual messages within their uplifting, upbeat music. ... Alexander's behavior was conditioned along certain lines — heroism, courage, strength, superstition, bisexuality, intoxication, cruelty. I have decided to use February in celebration of Black History Month to read more non-fiction. A bit biased since they are my favorite band, gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because for a non-musician and someone who has never played a musical instrument a lot of the technical information regarding music lost me. It is only through pushing himself to work hard in the face of disappointment and to remain positive and avoid the pitfalls of drugs that White can steer Earth, Wind & Fire to become the musical force it remains to this day. After reading this book, I really wish I had seen them in concert! In 1976, Maurice White was nominated for the Grammy Award in the Best Instrumental Composition category for ‘Earth, Wind & Fire’. Now in his seventies, White reflects on the great blessings music has brought to his life and the struggles he’s endured: his mother leaving him behind in Memphis when he was four; learning to play the drums with Booker T. Jones; moving to Chicago at eighteen and later Los Angeles after leaving the Ramsey Lewis Trio; forming EWF, only to have the original group fall apart; working with Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond; his diagnosis of Parkinson’s; and his final public performance with the group at the 2006 Grammy Awards. Maurice White was an American singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, arranger and bandleader. I appreciated the philosophy and intentionality of the crafting of this band under the leadership of Maurice White and the willingness (and courage) to take creative risks. A bit biased since they are my favorite band, gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because for a non-musician and someone who has never played a musical instrument a lot of the technical information regarding music lost me. With its dynamic horns, contrasting vocals, and vivid stage shows, Earth, Wind & Fire was one of the most popular acts of the late twentieth century—the band “that changed the sound of black pop” (Rolling Stone)—and its music continues to inspire modern artists including Usher, Jay-Z, Cee-Lo Green, and Outkast. It was a wonderful read. Earth, Wind & Fire was famous for spanning the musical genres of R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, pop, rock, and more. Maurice White was definitely a man before his time. He also goes into detail about his childhood and the rise, fall, and eventual resurrection of EWF. As a young man in high school “1977-1979” it was Earth Wind & Fire that kept me reaching and searching for answer’s and truth. Maurice White was a revolutionary as so many other musicians at the time who could rely only on their wits and enormous talent, instrument playing and strong voices. Maurice White, co-founder of Earth, Wind and Fire died on 3 February 2016 in Los Angeles, California. Rest In Peace Maurice, Prince, Whitney, Michael, Luther Vandross, and others that are no longer here. If you are a product of the late seventies, eighties, or nineties, you've got some knowledge of EW&F. A look at the life and career of Earth Wind & Fire's Maurice White. Thanks to my late mother (the 2nd biggest fan), their music has been a part of the soundtrack of my life for 42 of the 47 years I've been on the planet. I can honestly say I knew nothing about Earth, Wind, & Fire besides the music. - Duration: 14:58. This was a fascinating, in-depth narrative of the two decades over which White elevated the band from a struggling act to a multi-million-selling supergroup. We use these things to communicate the thoughts that have gone through our minds. No monthly commitment. #EWFForever. The writing here is very good - I didn't even realize there was a ghost writer until the end. For so many reasons it was inspiring and moving. The book is more than a chronological tale of a career; it’s a quest for meaning. I love that Maurice White knew what he wa. He is the founder of the band Earth, Wind & Fire. Earth, Wind & Fire founder Maurice White died Thursday at the age of 74 after suffering from Parkinson's disease. have focused on interpreting the texts of such authors as James Marshall, Tony Kushner, Wilhelm Grimm, Ruth Krauss, Herman Melville, and Mother Goose. His younger brother is still part of the band he founded. Click or Press Enter to view the items in your shopping bag or Press Tab to interact with the Shopping bag tooltip. Through it all, White credits his faith for his amazing success and guidance in overcoming his many challenges. Maurice White, the founder, chief songwriter and producer, and co-lead vocalist of legendary R&B/funk/soul band Earth, Wind, and Fire, passed away in his sleep yesterday at the age of 74. Earth, Wind, & Fire was one of the greatest bands of all time, of any genre. He wrote an Autobiography, Maurice white: My Life with Earth, Wind, and Fire. I grew up listening to them in high school and this memoir took me down memory lane. Keep Your Head to the Sky is an intimate, moving, and beautiful memoir from a man whose creativity and determination carried him to great success, and whose faith enabled him to savor every moment. Through it all, White credits his faith for his amazing success and guidance in overcoming his many challenges. To see what your friends thought of this book. Just seeing the titles of the song book this group had, brought back a time when I was carefree and innocent. Maurice White (December 19, 1941 – February 4, 2016) was an American singer, musician, songwriter, and record producer. Easily one of my favorite memoirs. Together they have two sons and a daughter. I am fortunate to have been growing u. This biography informs readers of everything they may know, would like to know and should know of Earth, Wind & Fire's formation. "I came up with the name because my astrological chart had no water in it," White once said. Als Sohn von Vater Verdine White Sr. und Mutter (?) White passed away today at the age of 74, he’d been battling Parkinson’s Disease for many years. Februar 2016 in Los Angeles, Kalifornien) war ein US-amerikanischer Musiker und der Gründer der amerikanischen Funk-, Soul- und R&B-Band Earth, Wind and Fire. White’s life and music orbit themes of social justice, spirituality, and self-reliance. Maurice White: My Life with Earth, Wind and Fire is a 2016 Amistad publication. For some reason this book was a little disappointing! “My Life with Earth, Wind & Fire is the candid and intimate odyssey of a man whose music and ideology continues to have an immeasurable influence on artists and audiences worldwide.” (Philadelphia Inquirer) “[The] musical elements [of Earth, Wind & Fire] would not have existed without the singular drive of Maurice White. Maurice White was an American singer, musician, songwriter, and record producer. In the sixteenth century, Spanish conquerors came to the New World in search of El Not sure what I expected, maybe a little more gossip or inside stories on some of the more famous members including himself but it is what it is! Even with that, I highly recommend this read for EWF fans everywhere. Being born and growing up after their heyday, I didn't really understand how innovative they were. What a gifted & disciplined man. I have alway loved EW&F since my high school years and that's about when the group started (1971-75) for me. Nach Abschluss der High School … I will begin my review by admitting that I am about as biased as any reader can get. I wanted to find out more about the creative genius that helped create the group that would influence my musical tastes for as long as I can remember--and I got that and so much more. Through it all, White credits his faith for his amazing success and guidance in overcoming his many challenges. A rep for the band confirmed his passing to Rolling Stone.He was 74. Members save with free shipping everyday! Listen online or offline with Android, iOS, web, Chromecast, and Google Assistant. He owned two housing properties, in caramel Valley and LA. The horn-driven band was known for 1970s hits such as "Shining Star" and "September." He had a keen understanding of nearly every instrument in the band, and just knew what worked musically. Maurice a definitely someone to look up to as a role model for today's youth. Maurice White formed EW&F and was the driving force behind it for many years. I can honestly say I knew nothing about Earth, Wind, & Fire besides the music. Described as a "visionary" by Vibe and a "mastermind" by Variety, White was nominated for a total of 22 Grammys, of which he won seven. He was 74. The soul group offered a healthy mix of funk, jazz, R&B, and even Latin music. When he is describing his children from three different woman, no emotion seems to come thru, just regret. He bestrode Europe and Asia like a supernatural figure.In this succinct portrait of Alexander the Great, distinguished scholar and historian Norman Cantor illuminates the ... An adult fantasy tale that will surely resonate with young adult readers, Ashes to Fire ... An adult fantasy tale that will surely resonate with young adult readers, Ashes to Fire Internationally acclaimed author and teacher Rosemary Radford Ruether presents a sweeping ecofeminist theology that illuminates -- Publishers Weekly "My Life with Earth, Wind & Fire is the candid and intimate odyssey of a man whose music and ideology continues to have an immeasurable influence on artists and audiences worldwide." We’d love your help. Earth, Wind & Fire ist eine amerikanische Soul- und Funk-Band, die 1969 in Chicago von dem Jazzschlagzeuger Maurice White gegründet wurde. Uh-oh, it looks like your Internet Explorer is out of date. Maurice White (* 19. This is a must read! “My Life with Earth, Wind & Fire is the candid and intimate odyssey of a man whose music and ideology continues to have an immeasurable influence on artists and audiences worldwide.” (Philadelphia Inquirer) “[The] musical elements [of Earth, Wind & Fire] would not … Geschichte Die Anfänge. He is the founder of the band Earth, Wind & Fire. For me, the story was intimate, entertaining, and substantive. The man had a vision, he wanted to have positivity in his lyrics. Earth, Wind and Fire vocalist and co-founder Maurice White died in his sleep in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening. My Life with Earth Wind, and Fire is an intimate, moving, and beautiful memoir from a man whose creativity and determination carried him to great success, and whose faith enabled him to … He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Earth, Wind & Fire in 2000. http://www.harpercollins.com/search-results?contributor=maurice-white, Illinois Music Museum on Route 66: The Road to Rock, New African American Histories and Biographies to Read Now. I have been a fan ever since and even took my children to see them at a concert in Miami years ago. This is a very satisfying book for any EWF fan, as White describes his overall philosophies about life and music. White does stray into some repetitive territory during the second half, but this reflects his dogged, focused personality. Never. White writes strongly about the nature of black masculinity during and after the civil rights movement, and what it means to be a good man. I was quite surprised to learn that Maurice WAS NOT born and raised in Chicago, though the city is a significant part of who he was. Earth, Wind & Fire consisting of Fred White along with half-brother Maurice White, brother Verdine White, and other members were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. White served as the band's main songwriter and record producer, and was co-lead singer along with Philip Bailey. Dezember 1941 in Memphis, Tennessee; † 3. I really enjoyed this book on audiobook! Start by marking “My Life with Earth, Wind, & Fire” as Want to Read: Error rating book. At last, the band’s founder, Maurice White, shares the story of his success. So many life lessons in his story and so much wisdom imparted. Earth Wind and Fire could not find a bigger fan than I am (maybe equal but not greater). And I am not a musician...I bet musicians and music-heads would love this. White's brother and fellow Earth, Wind & Fire member Verdine released a statement about Maurice's passing. How I have always loved Earth Wind and Fire. -- Philadelphia Inquirer "[The] musical elements [of Earth, Wind & Fire] would not have existed without the singular drive of Maurice White. Being born and growing up after their heyday, I didn't really understand how innovative they were. For all of his mysticism, he writes at length—and with greatest passion—about the need for organization and discipline. The Fires of Calderon is Book One in #1 New York Times bestselling author Lindsay Cummings’s Learn how to enable JavaScript on your browser. Maurice White was an American singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, arranger and bandleader. EW&F broke through uncharted crossover territory on the charts and built remarkably integrated audiences in arenas throughout the world. Nobody's life is perfect but he had a lot of blessings and opportunities most of us don't get and can only dream about. Earth, Wind & Fire were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, and Maurice was individually inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the 1990s, White showed dramatic grace in his acceptance of decline and loss. I have their all music on vinyl, CD and DVD. My Life with Earth Wind, and Fire is an intimate, moving, and beautiful memoir from a man whose creativity and determination carried him to great success, and whose faith enabled him to … I enjoyed learning all about Maurice White, EWF, and all the many. Highly recommend for anyone who loves music and/or Earth, Wind & Fire - what you'll realize from the story is just how influential the band was and remains. I listened to this book on audiobook and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I don't remember a time when their music wasn't a part of my life. (Sept.). This book works as an excellent autobiography, in part, because it takes a person behind the scenes, to see how things evolved to their greatness. Welcome to this autobiography by Maurice White, leader of my favorite group of all-time, Earth, Wind & Fire. I think that one of the things that lay behind the group's success was the fact that Maurice thought out what he was trying to accomplish with the band, long before he put it together. I think that one of the things that lay behind the group's success was the fact that Maurice thought out what he was trying to a. He also goes into detail about his childhood and the rise, fall, and eventual resurrection of EWF. Maurice White, founder of US soul band Earth, Wind & Fire, has died aged 74, his brother says. This book is one of the all time greats in terms of what it takes to manifest one's dreams. White was the visionary bandleader for Earth, Wind, & Fire and has chronicled his life story of growing up in 1950’s Memphis, moving to Chicago in the 1960’s to get his musical career started and finally to Los Angeles in the 1970’s where he created one of the greatest musical groups in American Pop Music. My Life With Earth, Wind & Fire By Maurice White with Herb Powell Amistad, 386 pp., $27.99. is the story of a queen's desperate journey to secure peace, and the even greater journey to discover herself. Refresh and try again. Awesome autobiography about one the great musical bands whose songs helped to guide, console, and inspire babyboomers' journey through the tremendous changes of the '70s-2000s, as told by the genius creator, musician, songwriter, producer, and bandleader, the late Maurice White; peace be upon him. A fantastic look at Maurice White from Memphis to Chicago and beyond a hit White... 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