Earth, Wind & Fire Bring Untouchable Legacy to FL Capital City

Article and Photos By Preston Hooks

For over 40 years, Earth, Wind & Fire have brought their unmistakable mix of funk and soul to fans around the globe. With 10s of millions of records sold, multiple Grammy Awards, and countless gold and platinum records, the accolades don’t lie, and neither do the fans. Earth, Wind & Fire are, rightfully so, one of the most respected musical groups of all time.

It is so special to have them back in Tallahassee, especially at a venue like the Adderley Amphitheater at Cascades Park. Word of South Festival has been running its event there for a while now, and it has really become a group effort, including organizations like Visit Tallahassee and Tallahassee Downtown. The Adderley itself is a fantastic, smaller amphitheater that really lets fans feel close to the artist, a perfect fit for an evening with Earth, Wind & Fire.

I have to give some love to the folks with Word of South Festival. This is my second year shooting their festival, last year as artist staff and this year on publication with 850ME. Both times, they have been incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. It is no surprise that legendary artists like George Clinton and Earth, Wind & Fire choose to work with this festival. I would encourage anyone who is any kind of music fan to attend each year!

So, on to the main event of this article, so to speak. The sound inside the bowl of the Adderley Amphitheater at Cascades Park was deafening as Earth, Wind & Fire took the stage. Fans in Tallahassee have been looking forward to kicking off this weekend for a long time, and they were going to let the EW&F crew feel it.

From note one, it was like watching multiple composers all playing immaculately curated pieces that somehow fit perfectly together. Anyone who has been before knows that Earth, Wind & Fire just have to be heard live to be understood and believed. There are few, if any, tighter bands on the planet.

From major hits to B-side tunes, the groove never seems to stop. If there is one thing Earth, Wind & Fire specialize in, it is getting people off their seats and moving. Every time I have seen them, it has been an overwhelmingly fun time, and this was no exception. With a catalog that spans decades, there’s no shortage of material to keep the crowd on their feet.

Earth, Wind & Fire were born in the 1960s. Since then, music has changed drastically with new styles, new business practices, and new technology. One thing that has remained unwavering is their commitment to excellent musicianship and giving their absolute best to fans. That legacy of consistent excellence both on stage and in the studio is unmistakably the reason for their longevity and tonight Tallahassee got to experience their love for music in all its glory.