Album Info
| Artist: | Earth, Wind & Fire |
| Album: | I Am |
| Released: | Australia, 1979 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | In The Stone | 4:48 |
| A2 | Can't Let Go | 3:29 |
| A3 | After The Love Is Gone | 4:31 |
| A4 | Let Your Feelings Show | 5:22 |
| B1 | Boogie Wonderland | 4:49 |
| Vocals - The Emotions | ||
| B2 | Star | 4:36 |
| B3 | Wait | 3:39 |
| B4 | Rock That | 3:07 |
| B5 | You And I | 2:58 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
When Earth, Wind & Fire released "I Am" in 1979, it wasn't just another album in their discography but a monumental testament to the group's musical prowess and vision. With Maurice White at the helm as the bandleader, this album combined elements of R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, pop, rock, dance, Latin, and Afro-pop, showcasing their unparalleled versatility.
"I Am" opens with the uplifting "In the Stone," a track that immediately pulls listeners into the album's embrace. The song's intricate horn arrangements, combined with Philip Bailey's falsetto and the signature harmonies of Earth, Wind & Fire, establish the album's tone, signaling that it's a musical journey of depth and discovery.
The hit single "Boogie Wonderland," featuring The Emotions, encapsulates the era's disco fever. Its infectious groove, catchy chorus, and dynamic orchestration made it an instant classic, filling dance floors around the world and propelling the album to multi-platinum status.
Yet, the beauty of "I Am" lies in its ability to traverse various musical landscapes seamlessly. "Can't Let Go" merges funk-infused rhythms with a touch of jazz, while "After the Love Has Gone," written by David Foster, Jay Graydon, and Bill Champlin, showcases the band's ability to deliver soulful ballads. The latter song, with its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics, earned the group a Grammy and remains a timeless anthem about love and loss.
The philosophical "Star" touches upon cosmic themes and our place in the universe, reminiscent of Maurice White's spiritual beliefs and the band's broader message of universal love and harmony. Its airy vocals, gentle guitar strums, and ethereal production evoke a sense of wonder and introspection.
A standout track, "Wait," encapsulates the essence of Earth, Wind & Fire – a fusion of genres, harmonious vocals, and intricate musical arrangements. Its progressive structure, transitioning from a mellow beginning to a vibrant, horn-driven climax, showcases the band's musical dexterity.
Throughout "I Am," the group's Afrocentric roots are evident, not just in the lyrical content but also in the rhythmic patterns, instrumentation, and album artwork. The Kalimba, an African thumb piano, makes notable appearances, adding a unique texture to the album's soundscape.
Production-wise, "I Am" is a marvel. Produced by Maurice White and co-produced by David Foster, every track is polished to perfection without losing the raw energy and emotion that Earth, Wind & Fire are renowned for. The album's mix ensures each instrument, from the blazing horns to the thumping basslines, shines without overshadowing the vocals.
One of the most remarkable qualities of Earth, Wind & Fire is their ability to create music that uplifts the spirit, and "I Am" is no exception. The album radiates positivity, urging listeners to dance, reflect, love, and dream. Its universal themes, coupled with its musical diversity, make it an album that transcends boundaries, appealing to listeners of all backgrounds.
In retrospect, "I Am" is not just an album but an experience. It epitomizes Earth, Wind & Fire's ethos – a celebration of life, love, and music. As the tracks flow seamlessly from one to the next, listeners are reminded of the magic that happens when gifted musicians come together with a shared vision. In the realm of 70s music, "I Am" is undoubtedly a crown jewel, reflecting the genius of Earth, Wind & Fire at their zenith.