Music Legends Earth, Wind & Fire and Cyndi Lauper to be honored in GRAMMY Salutes on CBS this Fall

September 21, 2025

The Recording Academy Brings Music Legends to CBS This Fall with two GRAMMY® Salutes 


Do you remember The twenty-first night of Semptember? 

This fall, CBS and the Recording Academy® are giving us not one but two unforgettable nights of music magic. If you’re a fan of Earth, Wind & Fire or Cyndi Lauper—or just love iconic artists sharing the stage with today’s biggest stars—mark your calendars. These all-star tribute specials are going to be must-watch television.

A GRAMMY® Salute to Earth, Wind & Fire: The 21st Night of September

On Sunday, September 21 (8–10 p.m. ET/PT), CBS will air A GRAMMY® Salute to Earth, Wind & Fire Live: The 21st Night of September, streaming on Paramount+ the same night for Premium subscribers.

The legendary nine-time GRAMMY-winning band takes over the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles alongside the world-renowned LA Philharmonic. Expect a breathtaking mix of orchestral arrangements and funk-filled grooves that showcase why Earth, Wind & Fire remain one of the most influential groups of all time.

And let’s talk about the guest list:
  • Stevie Wonder (music royalty, need we say more?)

  • Jonas Brothers, bringing generational crossover energy

  • Jon Batiste, whose soulful, jazz-infused sound will complement EWF perfectly

  • Janelle Monáe, the genre-bending visionary who always delivers unforgettable performances
This is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of legacy, cultural impact, and timeless sound. Produced by Fulwell Entertainment and GRAMMY Studios, with Ben Winston, Patrick Menton, and Harvey Mason Jr. as executive producers, the event is shaping up to be a true love letter to Earth, Wind & Fire’s enduring influence.

A GRAMMY® Salute to Cyndi Lauper: Live from the Hollywood Bowl

Just two weeks later, CBS will spotlight another trailblazing artist. On Sunday, October 5 (8–10 p.m. ET/PT), A GRAMMY® Salute to Cyndi Lauper: Live from the Hollywood Bowl hits the airwaves, also streaming on Paramount+ (with next-day access for Essential subscribers).

This couldn’t come at a more perfect time. Lauper is wrapping up her year-long Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour, and this special doubles as both a sendoff and a celebration. Recently inducted into the 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Lauper’s career has been nothing short of revolutionary. From “True Colors” to “Time After Time,” her music has been the soundtrack of resilience, individuality, and joy for generations.

The lineup for this tribute is equally dazzling:

  • Joni Mitchell and Cher, two living legends sharing the stage

  • John Legend and SZA, adding soulful and modern touches

  • Angélique Kidjo, Mickey Guyton, Trombone Shorty, and Jake Wesley Rogers, representing a diverse mix of global artistry

  • Plus a heartfelt video tribute from Brandi Carlile

Produced by Ken Ehrlich Productions and GRAMMY Studios, with Lauper herself serving as an executive producer, this two-night recording at the Hollywood Bowl promises to be as bold, heartfelt, and colorful as Lauper’s own career.

Why These Specials Matter

In an era where music can feel fleeting and digital, CBS and the Recording Academy are reminding us of the power of live performance and the importance of honoring icons. Both Earth, Wind & Fire and Cyndi Lauper represent not just hits and awards, but cultural moments—songs that define memories, movements, and milestones.

These tributes also connect the dots between generations. When legends like Stevie Wonder and Joni Mitchell share the stage with artists like SZA and the Jonas Brothers, it creates a beautiful bridge that shows the timelessness of great music.

I don't remember when I first heard Earth, Wind & Fire, but I do remember how their music made me feel -- alive. Their music is full, dynamic, and vibrant. Cyndi Lauper's music is an unforgettable part of my childhood. I remember singing "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and "Time after Time" like my life depended on it. 

So whether you grew up dancing to “September” or belting out “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” at karaoke, these GRAMMY® Salutes will give you a reason to relive those moments—and maybe create new ones.

How to Watch

  • CBS Broadcast: Sunday, Sept. 21 & Sunday, Oct. 5 (8–10 p.m. ET/PT)

  • Streaming: Paramount+ Premium (live + on-demand), Paramount+ Essential (on-demand the next day)

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