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Earth, Wind & Fire's 'September' Was Almost 'Corny'
22 Sep
Summary
- Philip Bailey doubted 'September' was a hit song initially.
- The iconic 'ba-dee-ya' hook was almost removed from the track.
- The song's 1978 release resulted in chart success and enduring popularity.
Earth, Wind & Fire's iconic 1978 hit, "September," faced early skepticism from its own band members. Philip Bailey confessed he initially thought the song was "kinda corny," while co-writer Allee Willis questioned the placeholder phrase "ba-dee-ya." However, Maurice White's insistence on preserving the song's irresistible groove ultimately prevailed.
The song achieved significant commercial success, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1979 and topping the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Its cultural impact extends far beyond its original chart run, with U.S. streams jumping 31 percent to 5.5 million during the week ending September 21, 2023, highlighting its enduring appeal.
Recognizing its lasting significance, the Library of Congress added "September" to the National Recording Registry in 2018. This honor celebrates music that enriches souls, tells stories, and mirrors the sounds of life, cementing the song's status as a timeless classic.
