About the song
“September,” a vibrant and timeless track by Earth, Wind & Fire, was first released as a single in 1978 on ARC/Columbia Records. This song, which features a distinctive funk groove and a relaxed bossa nova rhythm, quickly became one of the band’s most iconic hits. It was initially included in their compilation album *The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 1*, serving both as a fresh addition to the collection and a strategic move to boost sales.
The composition of “September” is notable for its infectious rhythm, built on a four-measure pattern and a circle of fifths that creates a seamless blend between verses and choruses. The song’s creation was a collaborative effort between Earth, Wind & Fire’s guitarist Al McKay and the band’s lead vocalist Maurice White, who, alongside songwriter Allee Willis, penned the lyrics. Although Willis initially questioned the nonsensical “ba-dee-ya” lyric, White insisted that the groove was more important than the literal meaning of the words, imparting a significant lesson in songwriting to Willis.
“September” enjoyed remarkable commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart, No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, and No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart. It was certified gold by the RIAA for sales exceeding one million copies and remains a staple in Earth, Wind & Fire’s discography. In 2018, the song was recognized by the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic importance.
The track’s influence extends well beyond its initial release. It has been featured in numerous films, including *Night at the Museum* (2006) and *Trolls* (2016), and it has become a popular choice for social media memes and internet content. Its legacy continues to thrive, with annual celebrations and viral dances, such as comedian Demi Adejuyigbe’s popular September 21st videos.
“September” has also been embraced in the UK football scene, where fans have adapted its catchy chorus into chants for various football clubs. In recognition of the song’s enduring impact, Los Angeles declared September 21 “Earth, Wind & Fire Day” in 2019, a testament to its lasting influence and the band’s significant contribution to music. The song’s appeal remains robust, evidenced by its continued popularity and frequent appearances in popular culture, including a 2022 Christmas commercial for Kohl’s.
Overall, “September” is more than just a hit song; it is a piece of musical history that continues to captivate audiences and inspire celebrations around the globe. Its infectious rhythm and upbeat melody ensure that it remains a beloved classic in the annals of popular music.
Video
Lyrics
Do you remember
The 21st night of September?
Love was changin’ the minds of pretenders
While chasin’ the clouds away
Our hearts were ringin’
In the key that our souls were singin’
As we danced in the night, remember
How the stars stole the night away, oh, yeah
Hey, hey, hey
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancin’ in September
Ba-dee-ya, never was a cloudy day
Ba-du-da, ba-du-da, ba-du-da, ba-du
Ba-du-da, ba-du, ba-du-da, ba-du
Ba-du-da, ba-du, ba-du-da
My thoughts are with you
Holdin’ hands with your heart to see you
Only blue talk and love, remember
How we knew love was here to stay
Now December
Found the love that we shared in September
Only blue talk and love, remember
The true love we share today
Hey, hey, hey
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancin’ in September
Ba-dee-ya, never was a cloudy day
There was a
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), dancin’ in September
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), golden dreams were shiny days
The bell was ringin’, oh, oh
Our souls were singin’
Do you remember never a cloudy day? Yow
There was a
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), dancin’ in September
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), never was a cloudy day
And we’ll say
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya (dee-ya, dee-ya), dancin’ in September
Ba-dee-ya (dee ya, dee-ya), golden dreams were shiny days
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya!
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya!