https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQTimc3nf7g Earth & Fire - Invitation @ArnoldVeeman 1 jaar geleden I wish to address the music industry, both past and present, about the importance of recognizing and promoting genuine, independent talent. Earth & Fire, a Dutch rock and pop band, is a prime example of such talent that could have achieved global fame. Their song "Storm and Thunder" was a source of inspiration for King Crimson's "Starless and Bible Black", which gained more global recognition, leading many to believe it was an original piece. While it was indeed an original work, it was undeniably influenced by Earth and Fire's song, a fact that has not been sufficiently discussed or acknowledged. Earth & Fire was a band that had the potential for worldwide recognition. Their first eight singles were almost uninterrupted top-5 hits in the Netherlands from 1970 to 1974. They also charted in continental Europe, particularly in Belgium and Germany. However, they never gained significant popularity in the United Kingdom or the United States. Their biggest hit was "Weekend" (1979), a number one disco track in the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Portugal, and Switzerland. This is a testament to their potential for international success. It's regrettable that this didn't happen, and the blame lies squarely on the record labels and the entertainment industry. History has shown that they were wrong not to push this wonderful band into the limelight, as they did with other, often more generic, artists. When I introduce people to Earth & Fire's music, they are immediately captivated, and these are people from outside the Netherlands. So, to those in the industry who overlooked this band, I have a Dutch saying for you: "scratch yourselves behind the ears". Once you understand the meaning of this phrase, you might regret not giving Earth & Fire the chance they deserved.