Maurice White (born December 19, 1941) is an American singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, arranger and bandleader. He is the founder of the band Earth, Wind & Fire. He is also the older brother of current Earth, Wind & Fire member Verdine White, and former member Fred White. Maurice served as the band's main songwriter and record producer, and was co-lead singer (along with Philip Bailey). White has won seven Grammys, and was nominated for 21 Grammys in total. Also known by his nickname Reese, he has worked with several famous recording artists such as Deniece Williams, The Emotions, Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond.
White was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in the late 1980s, which led him to eventually stop touring with Earth, Wind & Fire in 1994. However, White retains executive control of the band, and he remains active in the music business.