Questlove has released the trailer of his upcoming HBO documentary about the legendary Earth, Wind, and Fire. Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial vs. That’s the Weight of the World) debuts on HBO on June 7.
The documentary centers on the life and times of the iconic band.
Barack and Michelle Obama, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, and H.E.R. are all included in the doc.
The official synopsis reads: “Acclaimed producer, director, and musician Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson tells the story of the legendary nine-time Grammy Award-winning band Earth, Wind & Fire. Tracing their genesis through late founding member Maurice White, chronicling their evolution, highs, and lows. And relevance from the 1970s into the present day while exploring the deep philosophical and spiritual meaning behind their message and music.”
“Drawing from the band’s rich visual, audio, and written archives, including never-before-seen footage,” the footage continued. “The film plays like an experiential kaleidoscope of images, colors, and music, transporting viewers to the vibrancy of live performances that have electrified fans past and present.”
Earth, Wind & Fire stands as one of the most commercially successful and artistically influential bands of all time. Their music seamlessly fused R&B, funk, soul, jazz, disco, and pop. With more than 90 million records sold worldwide, the legendary group founded by Maurice White has secured six Grammy Awards from 17 nominations. They also won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. Their hit-making dominance during the 1970s and early 1980s yielded eight number-one R&B singles, four number-one R&B albums, and a string of multi-platinum masterpieces like That’s the Way of the World and All ‘N All.
Beyond their statistical achievements and timeless anthems like “September” and “Shining Star,” the ensemble revolutionized the live concert experience with elaborate, high-energy stage productions featuring the Phenix Horns.