Earth Wind & Fire -- Let's Groove

 

Earth Wind & Fire have had a lot of different amazing songs but for me, I will always have my triumvirate in the form of "September" (1978), "Boogie Wonderland" (1979) and "Let's Groove" (1981). In fact, I've put the three so tightly together that I am mildly surprised that "Let's Groove" came out more than two years following "Boogie Wonderland".

Coming out in September 1981, apparently it was quite a brave move for EW&F to release "Let's Groove" despite the fact that it was categorized as a post-disco and funk song in the "Disco Sucks" era along with the rise in New Wave. But hey, it was still EW&F! No flies on them...ever!😎

I am still shimmying and shammying in my seat, some 42 years after its release. Moreover, it's been reassuring and thrilling to see a new generation discovering and appreciating Maurice White and the gang. The reaction videos have been fun to watch such as the one by Rob Squad Reactions. All those voices and instruments coming together (including the Hey Horns)! And despite the anti-disco movement at the time, "Let's Groove" still hit No. 3 on US Billboard and No. 7 on Canada's RPM.

I think Japan also adores Earth Wind & Fire in the same way that they've embraced the Carpenters and the Beatles. In fact, there was even an anime-based parody on the song. But anyways, what else was being released in September 1981?

Tsukasa Ito -- Shojo Ningyo（少女人形）

Toshihiko Tahara -- Kanashimi 2 (TOO) Young （悲しみ２「ＴＯＯ」ヤング）

Kenji Sawada -- Stripper （ス・ト・リ・ッ・パ・ー）