Gratitude (Earth, Wind & Fire album)
Gratitude is a double album released by the American funk band Earth, Wind & Fire in 1975 on Columbia Records. Primarily a live album, it also contains new studio material. The live tracks were recorded at concerts held at The Forum in Los Angeles, California; Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena in Oakland, California; and University of California, San Diego in San Diego, California.
The album is significant for capturing the band at the peak of their early popularity and showcasing their energetic live performances. Gratitude features extended versions of some of Earth, Wind & Fire's most popular songs, including "Shining Star," "That's the Way of the World," and "Reasons." These live renditions often included instrumental improvisations and vocal interplay not found on the original studio recordings.
The new studio material on Gratitude included the hit single "Sing a Song" and the instrumental track "Gratitude," which became the album's title track. The studio tracks were notable for their blend of funk, soul, and pop elements, solidifying Earth, Wind & Fire's signature sound.
Gratitude was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States and achieving multi-platinum status. The album is considered a classic within Earth, Wind & Fire's discography and a prime example of their dynamic stage presence and musical versatility. It cemented their status as one of the leading funk bands of the 1970s.