When I first watched Questlove’s documentary on Maurice White and Earth, Wind & Fire, I wanted to see a film that illuminated Maurice’s metaphysical sensibilities and the spiritual undercurrent that shaped both his music and his life.
When I did not find that dimension in the film, I felt disappointed.
After setting aside those expectations and viewing the documentary a second time, I came to appreciate Questlove’s rendering of Maurice White’s life—not only as an artist, but also as a man shaped by unresolved and deeply painful childhood memories.
In the end, both Maurice and Questlove drew from the truths available to them and did the best they could.
Questlove’s commanding presence in the music industry is undeniable, but he appears less focused on Maurice White’s larger spiritual vision and metaphysical leanings; for that reason, I cannot fault him for making a film different from the one I had imagined.
Once I released my own expectations and allowed myself to encounter the film that so many others had embraced, I found that I could receive Questlove’s vision without relinquishing my own. Two truths, after all, can inhabit the same space and remain in harmony.
I will watch the documentary several more times during my Summer Solstice tour to Egypt (June 16-30) and during my 70th trip to Egypt (July 7-23). I expect those viewings and reflections in Egypt to help shape an offering I will share in August.
I envision presenting a seminar tentatively titled, “That’s the Weight of His World: The Music, the Message, and the Metaphysics of Maurice White & EWF.”
What will make this Browder Perspective distinctive is that it grows not only from admiration, but also from lived affinities that allow me to approach Maurice with both reverence and recognition. Maurice and I both:
· Love music
· Lived in Chicago
· Grew up without our fathers
· Meditated
· Adopted a healthy lifestyle
· Are proudly African-Centered
· Have a profound love of Kemet
· Explored metaphysics
· Understand that art and sound can raise consciousness
· Dared to envision and create something new
· Expressed a genuine concern for the well-being of others
In August, I will offer reflections that honor not only the brilliance of Maurice White’s music, but also the deeper vision it carried—the spiritual, philosophical, and metaphysical currents that gave that brilliance its enduring power.
I look forward to adding a Browder Perspective to the broader conversation surrounding Maurice White’s legacy.
PS
Since I’ll be in Egypt for much of June and July, celebrating my 75th birthday on July 26th and prepping for my Maurice White/EWF Seminar, I’m going to take a break from my regular Substack posts until September. I currently have several projects in development and look forward to sharing them with you in the Fall.
Until then, take care, stay safe and have fun.
Queue Sly Stone, “Hot Fun in the Summertime.”
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.