Date of Birth: December 19, 1941
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: February 4, 2016
Biography
Maurice White was an influential American musician, singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as the founder and leader of the band Earth, Wind & Fire. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, White’s musical journey began with his studies at the Chicago Conservatory of Music, which eventually led him to join Chess Records as a session drummer. There, he played on numerous significant recordings, working with artists like Muddy Waters, The Impressions, and Etta James. In 1969, White formed Earth, Wind & Fire, a band that went on to become one of the most successful and critically acclaimed groups of the 1970s. Known for their dynamic live performances and eclectic musical style, blending elements of R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, pop, rock, dance, and more, Earth, Wind & Fire created a legacy with hits like “September,” “Shining Star,” “Boogie Wonderland,” and “Let’s Groove.” White’s innovative approach to music production and his charismatic leadership were pivotal to the band’s success. Maurice White’s influence extended beyond his own band; he produced and wrote songs for several other artists, including Deniece Williams, The Emotions, and Ramsey Lewis. Despite being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the early 1990s, White continued to produce music and remained active in the industry until his passing. His contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
5 Interesting Facts about Maurice White
1. Maurice White was a member of the Ramsey Lewis Trio before founding Earth, Wind & Fire.
2. Earth, Wind & Fire has won six Grammy Awards and has been nominated 20 times.
3. White was known for his distinctive falsetto voice, which became a signature element of Earth, Wind & Fire’s sound.
4. He was deeply influenced by his spiritual beliefs, incorporating themes of peace, love, and unity into his music.
5. Maurice White played the Kalimba, an African thumb piano, which became a unique element in Earth, Wind & Fire’s music.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Maurice White
1. “Music is supposed to wash away the dust of everyday life.”
2. “I wanted to do something that hadn’t been done before, and Earth, Wind & Fire was that something.”
3. “Our music is meant to say, ‘We’re all together in this life and we can make it.’”
4. “The key to longevity is to learn every aspect of music that you can.”
5. “Creating music is a gift from God and sharing it is a joy.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the height of his career, Maurice White’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Maurice White had two children: a son named Kahbran White and a daughter named Eden White.
Relevant Links
3. [Grammy Awards – Earth, Wind & Fire](https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/earth-wind-fire/11894
4. [Songwriters Hall of Fame – Maurice White](https://www.songhall.org/profile/Maurice_White
