Horn Charts Series: "September"

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Curse the band leader who waits until the end of the night to call this song! The stamina required from the horn section to make it all the way to the end of Earth Wind and Fire’s “September” should make this a song to call early in the set.

Poor bandleader choices aside, I’ve noticed that most horn players want to flex their chops on this song by playing extra loud, extra high, etc… it rarely goes well. 99% of the time the complicated 16th-note pentatonic line will be rushed and out of sync. Why do so many musicians insist on making it so hard on themselves?!

Here are some things to remember about Earth Wind and Fire studio recordings (and The Phenix Horns):

  • These were not single takes, nor were they recorded all at once—this is all overdubbed*, so stamina wasn’t a concern in the studio. Playing it live, however, is a different matter**. It’s not a big deal to omit the less important parts in favor of the more signature lines.

  • Michael Harris is a unique talent and voice on the trumpet. Not everyone can play as high, or as rhythmic, or as staccato as Michael Davis. And that’s okay.

  • For trumpet players: this song is already voiced high enough. Adding another octave above does nothing for the song. You’re not impressing anyone—stop it.

* This article gives a simple breakdown on the EWF recording process from keyboardist Larry Dunn.

** Here is a great compilation video to give you a rough estimate of how the live version changed through the years. By 1994, the band seems to be using more backing tracks and a click track.

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See the Horn Charts archive here

In my ongoing effort to distribute correct information and spread goodwill, I'm posting PDF files of my transcribed horn charts for pop/variety band (3-piece: trumpet, tenor sax, trombone). I consider these selections as standard repertoire for the modern commercial musician, so think of these as educational tools to help you get through the gig. Like a Real Book for the pop musician—except with editing.