Earth, Wind & Fire songwriter Bernard “Beloyd” Taylor passes away

Earth, Wind & Fire are a unique blend of R&B, pop, funk, rock, jazz, disco, and gospel. Since their inception in 1971 the band has put out 7 top 10 Billboard charted albums and 7 top 10 singles. Their unique sound and style has given them the opportunity to reach a broad audience, crowning them one of the most successful bands of all-time.  Through the years, a mainstay lineup of Maurice White, Verdine White, Philip Bailey, and Ralph Johnson, has featured an array of other talented musicians and songwriters.

One of Earth, Wind & Fire’s most important contributors, Bernard “Beloyd” Taylor has passed away in the dawn of 2014.  Originally beginning his career as a guitarist with Cleveland, OH band S.O.U.L, Taylor began working with Earth, Wind & Fire as a songwriter in 1976, assisting on the Spirit album.  Taylor’s addition paid off immediately for Earth, Wind & Fire with him co-writing the hit single “Getaway” which sold over 1 million copies.  5 years later he worked with the band once again on the Raise! (1981) album, writing the tracks “Lady Sun”, “You Are a Winner”, and “Changing Times”. It was also between the 1981 and 1982 Raise! touring cycle Taylor performed on stage with Earth, Wind & Fire, providing live vocals and percussion. Other songwriting credits to Taylor’s name with Earth, Wind & Fire include “Spread Your Love”, “Freedom of Choice”, and “Heart to Heart”.

Columbia

CBS Records

Taylor was undoubtedly an extremely talented songwriter that helped enrich the music of many artists including Earth, Wind & Fire. Along with his songwriting credits, Taylor also wrote and recorded the memorable soul track “Get into your Life”.  While Bernard “Beloyd” Taylor may not be a household name within the mainstream world of music, his passionate words and music will live on forever. R.I.P. Beloyd Taylor.