September is a 1978 disco-funk-R&B single by Earth, Wind & Fire - released on November 18, 1978, from The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 1. It was written by Allee Willis and Maurice White, based on a groove developed by guitarist Al McKay. The song features a four-measure funk groove built on a circle of fifths and is in A major. It became a major chart hit, reaching No. 1 on the US R&B chart, No. 8 on the Hot 100, and No. 3 in the UK, and it remains a staple of the band’s catalog. In 2018 it was added to the Library of Congress National Recording Registry for its cultural significance. The track is known for its catchy “ba-dee-ya” hook, and there is a story behind the date reference related to the 21st night of September and the birth date of Maurice White’s son Kahbran. It has inspired numerous covers and remixes, including Phats & Small’s 1999 version “September ’99” and Kirk Franklin’s 2007 gospel tribute on Interpretations: Celebrating the Music of Earth, Wind & Fire.
