Earth, Wind and Fire have treated fans with the release of their first ever holiday collection entitled Holiday.
The festive collection sees the disco legends put their own spin on festive classics as well as incorporating some original tracks. It’s been a long time coming for the much-loved group and it’s a perfect alternative to the many Christmas collections already out there.
We caught up with Verdine White and Ralph Johnson from the group to talk about the album and find out more about why they finally decided to release a holiday album.
Hi guys. How are you all today? Where does this email Q&A find you?
Verdine: We are in the holiday spirit. We are in Washington DC performing for President Obama and the first Family.
You’re releasing your first ever Christmas album Holiday. What can your fans expect from it?
V: New renditions of standards Christmas songs and a couple of new songs inspired by EWF classic songs.
Ralph: A collection of classic holiday songs and some new version of Earth, Wind & Fire hits.
There are so many great Christmas songs. Tell us how you selected which ones to cover for the album.
V: Philip Bailey was really the master behind the selection of songs. We came up with some great versions.
R: We had a great time recording.
There are two original tracks on the record. Where did the inspiration for those come from?
R: “December” is the melody of “September” with a spin on the lyrics. Instead of the 21st night of September it’s the 25th night of December. The other one is “Happy Seasons” inspired by the EWF song, “Happy Feelin’”.
Why did you decide to release a Christmas album at this stage in your career?
V: We were ready.
R: I recorded a Christmas song with Stevie Wonder a few years ago and we all agreed that now was a great time to do our own.
What are your favourite Christmas songs and why?
V: “O Holy Night” because of the chord changes.
R: “The Christmas Song”.
When will your fans be able to see you performing songs from the album live?
R: We have been performing on TV shows in the U.S.
What would you say is the secret to Earth, Wind & Fire’s longevity?
V: Passion for music.
R: The love of music.
What will you be doing for Christmas this year?
V: Spending time with family and friends.
R: I love this time of year, we can take a break and spend time with my family.
What do you have coming up in 2015?
V: It’s the 40th Anniversary of “That’s the Ways of the World” which was our first #1 album. We have some surprises.
Holiday is out now on Sony Music. Watch the lyric video for Seasons:
