Earth, Wind & Fire are the latest world-renowned artists to give a benefit performance for Washington’s own Duke Ellington School of the Arts. The legendary ensemble will fill the Kennedy Center with their greatest jazz, pop, R&B and funk classics backed by the school’s Show Choir. “This is just another wonderful example of great people giving their all for the youngsters who will be the stars of tomorrow,” said Rory Pullens, head of the Duke Ellington School. “Since we began seeking support for our unique school, celebrity artists Dave Chappelle, Denyse Graves, Stevie Wonder and Jennifer Holliday have come out to do their part. The school appreciates all that these stars have done for us. And EWF won’t be here just for the benefit concert. On Feb. 23, just as Stevie Wonder did when he was here, they will be in the school conducting master classes for those performing with them in certain numbers at the Kennedy Center.”
| ONSTAGE |
| Earth, Wind & Fire |
| » Where: Kennedy Center Concert Hall |
| » When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 9:30 p.m. VIP Cocktail Reception |
| » Info: $125 to $250; 202-467-4600; kennedy-center.org |
From the starting gate, Earth, Wind & Fire awakened listeners to the African influences that invigorate American music. Founded in Chicago in 1969 by Maurice White, a drummer, with jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis and his brother Verdine, a classically trained bassist, the band incorporated the diverse sounds of soul, funk, blues, rock and jazz.
By 1975, EWF had a No. 1 single, “Shining Star,” from the sound track of a film in which they had appeared. Then came their partially live album “Gratitude,” followed by “Spirit” and “All ‘n All.” In 1977, they walked away with three Grammy Awards. Over the years, the group has drawn crowds to their riveting stage shows and exhibited exemplary influence on American pop culture with such hits as “After the Love has Gone” and “Let’s Groove.”
Verdine White shares his brother’s joy in this opportunity to perform. “Our children are our greatest gift,” he said. “That is why Earth, Wind & Fire is excited to support the Duke Ellington School with this benefit show.”
India Reynolds, 16, a member of the school’s Show Choir, was one of the stars of the school’s production of “Dreamgirls” earlier this season.
“It’s been like a dream working with Denyse Graves, Stevie Wonder and Jennifer Holliday and to see and talk with them face to face,” she said. “Michelle Obama was here for ‘Dreamgirls’ and gave us such encouragement. We work really hard every day from 8:30 in the morning to 8:30 at night. I’m very fortunate to be building a resume as I learn from legendary stars who keep giving back to the next generation.”
