Ralph Johnson of Earth, Wind & Fire Shares New Book About the Band with Foreword by Questlove – Check Out the Cover!

From left: Ralph Johnson; the cover of ‘Rhythm & Fire;’ Questlove.
Credit: Rob Shanahan Media LLC; Diversion Books; Taylor Hill/Getty

NEED TO KNOW

• Earth, Wind & Fire percussionist and vocalist Ralph Johnson will publish a new book this spring.
• In Rhythm & Fire: A Life in Harmony with Earth, Wind & Fire, Johnson recounts the Grammy-winning band’s journey from its origins to its height of fame.
• The book is set for release this spring by Diversion Books.

Ralph Johnson, known for his role as percussionist and vocalist in the iconic band Earth, Wind & Fire, is poised to release a new book titled Rhythm & Fire: A Life in Harmony with Earth, Wind & Fire. This spring publication offers a nostalgic reflection on the band’s remarkable journey, with the cover revealed exclusively to PEOPLE. The book is being published by independent publisher Diversion Books.

Founded in 1969 by lead vocalist Maurice White, Earth, Wind & Fire achieved success by blending various genres such as soul, jazz, funk, R&B, and disco, crafting a distinctive sound that remains beloved by fans. Over the years, the lineup has included prominent musicians like Johnson, Verdine White, Fred White, and Philip Bailey.

The cover of ‘Rhythm & Fire’ by Ralph Johnson.
Credit: Diversion Books

In his memoir, Johnson shares his beginnings as a drummer in Los Angeles during the 1960s and ’70s, detailing how his early experiences shaped his contributions to the band. Earth, Wind & Fire garnered six Grammy Awards throughout their career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

The band has weathered numerous challenges, as noted in the book’s synopsis, including Maurice White’s hiatus and the individual growth experienced by its members. Johnson’s compelling narrative explores themes of fame, faith, and community, emphasizing why, even after more than fifty years, the band’s message continues to resonate globally.

Ralph Johnson.
Credit: Rob Shanahan Media LLC

Rhythm & Fire also features 30 exclusive cover photographs, and includes a foreword by Questlove, a member of The Roots. Questlove’s upcoming documentary on Earth, Wind & Fire is scheduled to premiere on HBO in 2026.

“Bringing Rhythm & Fire to the fans who have supported me for so long is really meaningful to me,” Johnson stated. “I can’t wait to share my journey growing up in L.A., and the pursuit of a dream that would one day place me at the Kennedy Center with Earth, Wind & Fire.”

Rhythm & Fire: A Life in Harmony with Earth, Wind & Fire will be available on May 26, 2023, and is currently available for preorder.