A two‑hour HBO documentary directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson premiered Sunday night, June 7, 2026, as the opening film of the 25th‑anniversary Tribeca Festival. Titled Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial vs. That’s the Weight of the World), the film charts the band’s origins, its signature blend of jazz, R&B, funk and disco, and the ways it has shaped contemporary pop.

The narrative centers on founder Maurice White, who left the Salty Peppers in Chicago, relocated to Los Angeles, and founded Earth, Wind & Fire in 1969. White, a believer in mysticism, selected the name by fusing the elements earth, fire and air—later replacing air with wind—according to a clip from the film. The documentary shows how his vision materialized into a sound that married horns, kalimba, layered vocals, and produced timeless hits such as “September,” “Shining Star” and “Let’s Groove.”

Questlove spent two years researching the group, tapping into unreleased recordings, outtakes, and White’s personal diaries. He also sat down with original members Verdine White, Philip Bailey and Ralph Johnson, and the film incorporates footage of the band’s elaborate stage shows and psychedelic costumes, revealing the creative tensions that forged its identity.

In a post‑premiere Zoom interview with Billboard, Bailey lauded Questlove’s depth of knowledge, describing the director as “an innate gift for knowing a lot of facts about music history.” Verdine echoed that sentiment, adding that the documentary captured the band’s “essence and spirits.” Johnson noted that the film illustrates how the group’s highs and lows mirror the duality of the universe.

The documentary does not shy from the band’s hardships. White’s early life—including being given away by his mother—is portrayed as a formative experience that fueled his commitment to “bring positivity and love into the world.” The film also touches on the group’s 1984‑1987 hiatus and the evolution of its lineup.

Following the Tribeca screening, Earth, Wind & Fire performed live with The Roots—Questlove’s own band—at the festival’s opening night. The concert drew a mix of longtime fans and new listeners, underscoring the band’s enduring appeal.

Looking ahead, Earth, Wind & Fire will launch the “Sing a Song All Night Long” tour with Lionel Richie on June 24, 2026. The co‑headlining North American run will feature a blend of classic tracks from both acts and is scheduled to continue through the summer. Ticket information is available on the official websites of each artist.

The film’s release on HBO and HBO Max coincides with the band’s 50‑year anniversary, offering a comprehensive look at a group that has sold over 90 million records worldwide and earned multiple Grammy Awards, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and a Kennedy Center Honors award in 2019. By focusing on Maurice White’s vision, the band’s musical innovation, and the personal stories of its members, the documentary provides a rare, in‑depth portrait of a group that has profoundly influenced modern pop and R&B.

As Earth, Wind & Fire continue to tour and celebrate their legacy, the documentary serves as both a historical record and a reminder of the band’s message: music can inspire positivity, unity and self‑discovery. Fans can anticipate further releases, including archival material and new recordings, as the band remains active in the music scene. The film’s premiere and the upcoming tour underscore the enduring relevance of Earth, Wind & Fire’s music and the lasting impact of Maurice White’s vision on contemporary artists and audiences alike.