The Ohio Players: Pioneers of Funk and Soul

Introduction

In the realm of timeless funk and soul music, one song stands out like a blazing inferno – “Fire” by the Ohio Players. Released in 1974, this chart-topping hit not only set dance floors on fire but also cemented its place in the annals of music history. In this article, we’ll delve into the soulful world of “Fire,” exploring the origins, groovy vibes, and the musical journey of the Ohio Players.

Did You Know?

1. The Birth of Ohio Players:

The Ohio Players, originally hailing from Dayton, Ohio, formed in the late 1950s. Known for their unique fusion of funk, soul, and R&B, the band gained prominence for their energetic performances and infectious grooves.

2. Fire’s Chart-Topping Success:

“Fire” blazed onto the music scene, capturing the hearts and feet of listeners. This funky anthem soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, achieving gold certification. Its unforgettable melody and catchy hooks continue to captivate audiences today.

3. Iconic Album Cover:

The Ohio Players’ album cover for “Fire” is equally legendary. Featuring a suggestive image of a sexy lady covered in honey, it has become an iconic piece of album art, symbolizing the era’s unabashed sensuality.

4. Influence on Music:

“Fire” not only heated up dance floors but also left an indelible mark on the music industry. Its unique blend of funk and soul set a new standard for the genre, inspiring future artists and musicians.

5. Rediscovering the Ohio Players:

Despite their song “Fire” becoming a timeless classic, the Ohio Players’ legacy extends to numerous other hits and albums, making them a must-know for any music aficionado.

Video

Lyrics: Fire 

Hey, ha, uh-huh
Hey, hey, hey, Lord (ow, gow)
Hey, ha, uh-huh
Hey, hey, hey, Lord
(Fire)

Fire (Uh, uh)
Fire (Sing us home) (Oh Lord)
Fire (woo, woo, woo, woo)
Fire

The way you walk and talk really sets me off
To a four-alarm, child, yes it does, uh, uh
The way you squeeze and tease knocks to me my knees
‘Cause you’re smokin’, baby, baby

The way you swerve and curve really wracks my nerves
And I’m so excited, child (yeah) woo, woo
The way you push, push lets me know that you’re
Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha, good
(You’re gonna get your wish) Oh, Lord, oh

Fire (what I say, child, ow)
Fire (uh-huh)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (woo)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (no no)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (whoa)

Woo hoo hoo hoo, baby
Says burnin, burnin’ baby
Hoo, hoo, hoo, hoo, hoo
Burnin, burnin’ baby
Oh, baby
‘Cause someone on me

When you shake what you got, and girl, you’ve got a lot
You really somethin’, child, yes, you are
‘Cause when you’re hot, you’re hot, you really shoot your shot
You’re dyn-o-mite child, yeah

Well, I can tell by your game, you’re gonna start a flame
In my heart, baby, baby
I’m ’bout to choke from the smoke, got to tighten up my stroke
Can you feel it, girl? Yeah

Got me burnin’, got me burnin’
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (fire)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (fire)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (fire)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (fire)
Got me burnin’, got me burnin’ (fire)