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.”

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.