September

Earth, Wind & Fire released September in late 1978 as a standout track on their compilation album The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 1. Although often mistaken for a standalone album due to its massive popularity, the song is actually a single that topped the US R&B chart and reached number eight on the Hot 100 while peaking at number three in the UK. Written by Allee Willis and Maurice White with a distinctive guitar riff from Al McKay, the record blends funk rhythms with bright brass sections and soulful vocals.

The Library of Congress added this recording to the National Recording Registry in 2018 for its cultural importance. Recent coverage from September 2026 highlights how the phrase "the twenty-first night of September" continues to permeate the cultural lexicon, proving the track's status as an instant classic that transcends generations. The song remains a staple at weddings and parties nearly five decades after its debut. [edit]