Two legendary bands joined forces to gift Camden, NJ a night of unforgettable music last week. Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire are both celebrated for their iconic sounds and enduring hits — each brought their A-game to a packed audience from the seats to the lawn, creating an timeless and nostalgic atmosphere.
Earth, Wind & Fire took the stage with an explosion of color and sound, opening with their hit “Shining Star.” The band’s signature blend of funk, soul, and R&B had the crowd on their feet — grooving the night away to their infectious rhythms as the sun began to set. Philip Bailey’s falsetto soared effortlessly on hits like “Reasons” and “Fantasy” — proving that these guys still have loads of talent after all of these years. His dynamic range and emotive delivery brought an extra layer of magic to the performance. Verdine White’s basslines were funky and fluid alongside Ralph Johnson’s tight drumming. Earth, Wind & Fire’s iconic hit “September,” never fails to bring joy to its listeners. The audience’s energy peaked as everyone sang and danced along together. The band’s vibrant stage presence only enhanced their performance further for a set to remember.
Transporting the audience back to the golden era of rock and jazz fusion, Chicago came onto the stage as the audience lit up with excitement. The band’s impressively smooth brass section led by original members Lee Loughnane (trumpet) and James Pankow (trombone), was in top form, adding a vibrant punch to every song, sounding just like it does recorded. Robert Lamm’s vocals on classics like “To Be Free” and “You’re The Inspiration” were as smooth as ever, while the accompanying guitar work glistened. The audience sang along, their voices blending with the band’s harmonies, creating a united celebration of Chicago’s timeless music. The setlist was an impressive 20 songs long — it remained lively and infectious from beginning through the final encore, proving that Chicago’s music remains as vital as ever.
CHICAGO & EARTH, WIND AND FIRE – JULY 31, 2024 – FREEDOM MORTGAGE PAVILION (CAMDEN, NJ)
