Earth, Wind & Fire and Lionel Richie Light Up Acrisure Arena
Story and Photos by Pat Krause
Acrisure Arena hosted two legendary acts before a packed, sold-out crowd of Earth, Wind & Fire and Lionel Richie fans. What a treat for Desert music lovers who braved the summer heat to see their favorite singers and musicians.
Earth, Wind, and Fire Band-photo by Pat Krause
Acrisure Arena has brought some truly big names in music to its venue, and this concert belongs near the top of the list.
Earth, Wind & Fire came onstage after a video highlighted some of the group’s greatest performances. The stage was filled with the band’s many talented musicians, including founding member Verdine White and longtime members Ralph Johnson and Philip Bailey.
Earth, Wind, and Fire Band-photo by Pat Krause
Considered one of the greatest bands of all time, Earth, Wind & Fire has sold more than 90 million records. The group has remained popular by moving with the times and exploring different musical genres, including jazz, soul, disco, pop, Latin, Afro-pop and R&B.
Earth, Wind, and Fire Band-photo by Pat Krause
Many fans stood to get the best possible view of the band and capture photos and videos. Earth, Wind & Fire performed some of its most famous hits, including “Shining Star,” “Let Your Feelings Show,” “Sing a Song,” “Let’s Groove” and “September.”
The fans always wanted more. What a night to remember. They were able to see and hear this legendary band inside a fabulous venue.
Lionel Ritchie-photo by Pat Krause
Lionel Richie’s concert began at 9 p.m. He arrived onstage amid a brilliant white light, standing out in his bright yellow jacket with his great band behind him.
Lionel Ritchie-photo by Pat Krause
Richie performed many of the songs that have helped define his extraordinary career, including “Easy,” “My Love” and “Stuck on You.” He later delivered “We Are the World” before ending the evening with “All Night Long.”
He spoke to the audience about the heat and the importance of hydration—not just water, but hydration. This had been an extremely hot day in the Desert, and Acrisure Arena was certainly a cool place to be. Richie thanked everyone for coming and said he was very happy to be there.
Lionel Ritchie-photo by Pat Krause
At times, a couple of the musicians joined Richie at the front of the stage. I especially liked the way he would stop, put his hands on his hips and talk to the fans. It felt less like a concert speech and more like a personal conversation with friends.
Earth, Wind & Fire and their longtime friend Lionel Richie continue to perform together, giving audiences a night filled with memories and classic songs.
Next up at Acrisure Arena is another major dual concert when Chicago and Styx bring their Windy Cities Tour to the Desert on September 2. It promises to be another unforgettable—and possibly sold-out—night.
Pat Krause
