Nile Rodgers with Earth, Wind & Fire and CHIC

Earth, Wind & Fire, formed in Chicago by Maurice White in 1969, fused funk, jazz, soul, gospel, and disco. Known for hits like "Shining Star" and "September," they won multiple Grammys and collaborated with artists like Kenny G. Their stage shows were vibrant and elaborate, akin to P-Funk's spectacles. Enshrining a blend of cosmic and uplifting styles, they were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010. Members included lead singer Philip Bailey and the Phoenix Horns. White passed in 2016, leaving a legacy of musical innovation and spirit.

Born in New York, Nile Rodgers revolutionized music with Chic's disco hits "Le Freak" and "Good Times," and produced for icons like Bowie, Madonna, and Daft Punk. His "chucking" guitar style and countless hits earned him a spot in the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Rodgers co-founded the We Are Family Foundation, performed at global festivals, and battled cancer while continuing to release music and collaborate widely.