HBO Documentary Films has officially joined the upcoming untitled documentary on Earth, Wind & Fire, directed by Academy Award® and GRAMMY® winner Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson (Summer of Soul). The film will debut in the U.S. in 2026 on HBO and will stream on Max.
The project, financed by Fifth Season, is produced by RadicalMedia, Two One Five Entertainment, Broken Halo Entertainment, and Word Is Bond®, in association with Sony Music Vision.
The documentary will take a deep dive into the legendary group’s enduring legacy, cultural influence, and timeless sound — featuring unprecedented access to the band’s archives of visual, audio, and written material. With the support of the Maurice White estate and the band itself, the film aims to capture the spirit and impact of one of the most influential musical acts in history.
“I’m honored to tell the story of Earth, Wind & Fire and the deep meaning behind their message and music,” Questlove said. “To grow up listening to the music is one thing, but to be handed the keys to the kingdom of preserving history is another. I can’t imagine a better platform on which to share this documentary with U.S. audiences than HBO.”
This marks Questlove’s latest directorial effort following his Oscar-winning Summer of Soul and his upcoming Sly Lives! documentary (The Burden of Black Genius). Both previous films aired on Hulu in the U.S.
Earth, Wind & Fire — founded in 1969 by Maurice White — became one of the most celebrated and innovative bands in music, blending funk, soul, jazz, R&B, and African rhythms into a sound that has transcended generations. With over 90 million records sold, six Grammy Awards, and 11 consecutive gold or platinum albums, their catalog of classics like “September,” “Boogie Wonderland,” and “Shining Star” continues to shape music and culture today.
Questlove previously reflected on his personal connection to the group, saying,
“Having been baptized in the Afrocentric joy river of this powerhouse unit, I’ve learned about them, I’ve learned about us, and more importantly, I’ve learned and rediscovered myself in the process. I’m so excited to be part of the process of preserving their positive but very vulnerable and real story of Soul, Self & Struggle.”