NEED TO KNOW
Earth, Wind & Fire was founded by Maurice White in 1969
White recruited musicians like Verdine White, Philip Bailey and Ralph Johnson to join the band
The band is the subject of CBS’ special ‘A Grammy Salute to Earth, Wind & Fire Live: The 21st Night of September’
From funky horns to dazzling dance moves, Earth, Wind & Fire has reinvented its lineup of musicians since 1969 — yet the band’s irresistible energy never skips a beat.
Earth, Wind & Fire was founded by Maurice White in Chicago. Drawing on his experience as a session musician, White envisioned a group that could blend R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco and African-inspired rhythms into a unique, uplifting sound.
He spent several years carefully assembling talented musicians who shared his vision. Over time, this process led to the formation of Earth, Wind & Fire’s principal lineup, which included Maurice, his brothers Verdine White and Fred White, plus Ralph Johnson, Johnny Graham, Larry Dunn, Al McKay, Andrew Woolfolk and Philip Bailey. Their music has earned them six Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, cementing their place in music history.
Over the decades, Earth, Wind & Fire’s membership has evolved. Some founding members, like White — who died in February 2016 of Parkinson’s disease at age 74 — stepped back from touring or recording due to health issues, while others pursued solo projects or different musical opportunities. The band is the subject of CBS’ special A Grammy Salute To Earth, Wind & Fire Live: The 21st Night of September.
See the members of Earth, Wind & Fire, from their first years touring to their more recent appearances.
01 of 07
Maurice White
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Maurice White in 1978; Maurice White in 2010.
Maurice began his career as a drummer and session musician, working with artists like Etta James and the Ramsey Lewis Trio.
In 1969, he founded Earth, Wind & Fire, serving as the band’s leader, primary producer, songwriter and drummer, shaping its signature style and guiding it to international success.
Parkinson’s disease led him to gradually step back from touring in the mid-1990s, though he continued to write, produce and perform in studio settings. He also released a self-titled solo album in 1985, which included the hit “Stand by Me.”
Maurice was married to Marilyn White, and together they had three children. He died on Feb. 4, 2016, at age 74.
02 of 07
Verdine White
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Verdine White in 1979; Verdine White in 2025.
Maurice’s brother Verdine joined Earth, Wind & Fire in 1970, contributing to its distinctive sound with his energetic performances and innovative bass lines.
In 2024, Verdine ventured into a solo career with the release of his debut single, “Superman,” a tribute to his late brother. The song was produced by his wife, Shelly Clark, who was a member of the 1970s group Honey Cone.
“Maurice was a Superman,” Verdine told PEOPLE in December 2024. “When you really look at his discography and what Rice did as a writer, producer, leader … he was my mentor and brought me into the business.”
The musician has been married to Clark since 1980. They share one son.
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Philip Bailey
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Philip Bailey in 1985; Philip Bailey in 2025.
Bailey joined the band in 1972, contributing to hits like “Reasons,” “Fantasy” and “September.”
He kicked off his solo career in 1983 with the release of his debut album, Continuation. However, his solo breakthrough came in 1984 with the album Chinese Wall, which featured “Easy Lover,” a duet with Phil Collins.
Beyond his musical achievements, Bailey is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He founded the Music Is Unity Foundation in 2007, which introduces disenfranchised teens and young adults with foster care backgrounds to industry careers.
Bailey is currently married to Valerie Bailey. The musician’s son Philip Bailey Jr. has followed in his father’s footsteps and is now a member of Earth, Wind & Fire.
04 of 07
Ralph Johnson
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Ralph Johnson in 1987; Ralph Johnson in 2025.
Johnson also joined Earth, Wind & Fire in 1972.
Beyond his work with the band, he’s collaborated with various artists across genres, contributing to projects by Jay-Z, The Temptations, Drake and Meghan Trainor.
Johnson is married to his wife, Susan Johnson.
05 of 07
Al McKay
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Al McKay in 1978; Al McKay in 2019.
McKay began his professional music career in the 1960s, notably playing with the Ike & Tina Turner Revue.
He joined Earth, Wind & Fire in 1973 and co-wrote hits like “Sing a Song” and “Saturday Nite.”
In 2001, McKay released his debut solo album, Al Dente, under the name Al McKay Allstars after leaving the band in 1981.
He continues to perform with his band under the name Earth, Wind & Fire Experience by Al McKay, and is dedicated to preserving the original spirit of the group’s music.
06 of 07
Larry Dunn
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Larry Dunn; Larry Dunn in 2020.
Dunn joined the iconic group in 1972 and served as the musical director until 1983, contributing to the band’s success with hits like “Shining Star” and “Be Ever Wonderful.”
After departing from Earth, Wind & Fire, he released his debut solo album, Lover’s Silhouette, in 1992.
The keyboardist is married to Luisa Dunn, who formed the production company Source Productions with him.
07 of 07
Johnny Graham
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Johnny Graham in 1980.
Graham became a key member of Earth, Wind & Fire in 1973. He contributed memorable guitar solos to songs like “Love’s Holiday” and “Fantasy.”
After leaving the band in the early 1980s, Graham joined Al McKay’s L.A. Allstars, which included former Earth, Wind & Fire members like Andrew Woolfolk and Fred White.
Graham isn’t active on social media and hasn’t performed publicly in years.
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