“As young musicians, we cut our teeth on doing gigs at clubs and functions and colleges. That was really the proving ground for young musicians, learning songs, doing covers of different songs that were popular, learning different genres of music.”

American singer, songwriter, and percussionist, born 1951

Philip Bailey is an American singer, songwriter, and percussionist, known as an early member of Earth, Wind & Fire. He is also one of the band’s two lead singers. Born in 1951, he became widely recognized for his four-octave range and distinctive falsetto. Bailey’s work with Earth, Wind & Fire earned him induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His name is closely tied to the band’s vocal sound, especially the high, agile singing that helped define its music.