A FESTIVAL boss said he has moved Heaven and Earth, Wind And Fire in his bid to land a wildly successful soul and funk band.

Love Supreme Jazz Festival, held at Glynde Place in Lewes, has announced that Earth, Wind And Fire will be the closing act at the three-day event.

The Chicago band, best known for their songs September and Boogie Wonderland, will play on Sunday, July 1.

Festival director Ciro Romano, pictured inset, said it had taken him years to convince the group to play at Love Supreme.

He said: “We’ve been coveting Earth, Wind And Fire since the festival’s inception [in 2013].

“They’re a phenomenal live act with an incredible back catalogue of songs and we know they’ll be a massive hit with the Love Supreme audience.”

Recent headliners at Love Supreme have included The Jacksons, George Benson and Nile Rodgers and Chic, but Mr Romano said Earth, Wind And Fire were the most high-profile band to perform yet.

“Having sold over 100 million records across the course of their career they are also the biggest act we’ve booked for the festival to date.

“They will provide a fitting finale to this year’s event.”

Earth, Wind And Fire will take the form of a ten-piece band in their festival appearance, fronted by original members Philip Bailey, Verdine White and Ralph Johnston.

Formed in 1969, the group went on to achieve huge success.

They were recipients of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and have a star dedicated to them on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In 2000, they were inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Their well-known hits include September, Boogie Wonderland, Let’s Groove, Shining Star and After The Love Has Gone.

The band have released 21 albums and employed more than 40 members over an almost 50-year life span.

lLove Supreme Jazz Festival takes place from June 29 to July 1, 2018.

Tickets start from £54 and are on sale now from www.lovesupremefestival.com

The full line-up will be announced next month.