Exploring African American Music: 3 Essential R&B A

When it comes to R&B, some albums stand the test of time, shaping the sound of African American generations to come. In this post, we’ll explore my favorite albums from the 70’s.  Three essential R&B albums that showcase the depth, soul, and brilliance of African American music. From Stevie Wonder’s Songs in the Key of Life to Earth, Wind & Fire’s That’s the Way of the World, these classics continue to inspire and influence artists today. Let’s dive into the music that defines the genre!

African American music, classic R&B albums, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire, essential R&B albums, best R&B music, iconic soul albums.

In this blog, I will discuss: 1. “Songs In The Key Of Life.” Recording artist, Stevie Wonder 2.”That’s The Way Of The World.” Recording group, Earth Wind and Fire 3. “Fire That’s the Way of the World.” Recording group, Earth Wind and Fire

“Songs In The Key Of Life” recording artist Stevie Wonder

Released on September 28, 1976, this album includes a total of 21 songs. Here are a few of my favorites:

“Another Star” “Knocks Me off My Feet,” “As, Ngiculela/Es Una Historia/I Am Singing,” sung in Zulu, Spanish and English

”Thats’s The Way  Of The World.” Recording group, Earth Wind and Fire 

 This album was released on March 15, 1975.

 A review of the album by Vibe magazine wrote:  "That's the Way of the World coursed effortlessly through a myriad of genres, from rock to jazz to funk to heavy African influences.”

My favorites songs are:                                                  “That’s The Way Of The World”                              “Reasons”

“Fire That’s The way of the world Alive In 75” recording artist Earth Wind And Fire

Recorded on May 10-24 1975, this is an 11-track live album.  It’s exciting to hear the excitement of audience response to the live band and band speakers. Earth Wind & Fire included live arena show performances from across the East Coast. 

The venues where the album recordings took place were:

Omni Theater, Atlanta, GA: "Overture" and "Interlude" were recorded here

Civic Center, Baltimore, MD: "Shining Star" and "Reasons" were recorded here

Civic Arena, Pittsburgh, PA: "Happy Feelin'" was recorded here

Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, NY: "Yearnin' Learnin'", "Sun Goddess", "Evil", "Kalimba Story", and "That's the Way of the World" were recorded here

Here are a few of my favorites:

Jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis  sat in on an improv-rich rendition of "Sun Goddess," 

The a lengthy track of"Reasons"