Earth, Wind & Fire kicked off Alumni Weekend Friday with ’70s funk that left the crowd dancing September away.

Alumni, staff and students nearly filled the stands and floor to see the band that has performed for more than four decades. Known for bridging soul, R&B and disco, the group started the show with the fast-tempo, “Boogie Wonderland,” before blasting hits like “Shining Star” and “After the Love is Gone.” During “September,” University President Steven Knapp took the stage for a two-minute bongo drum solo.

The University sold 2,300 tickets to the show, Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations and Development Adrienne Rulnick said. Last year, Chuck Brown drew about 800 alumni, staff and students, while the Barenaked Ladies show attracted a crowd of about 1,000.

The University shelled out $190,000 for the ’70s legends, according to a contract obtained by The Hatchet.

Band members sported looks from different decades, with bass guitarist Verdine White donning a silver jumpsuit with fringe down his legs, and singer Philip Bailey pairing bright green pants with a black-and-white checkered blazer.

The full band, which includes guitarists, drummers and horn players, danced in sync throughout the show. As the show came to a close, the band circled around White as he shook his booty for the crowd.

Alumna Annette Ffolkes, who was celebrating her 30th reunion, said she was excited to be back on campus for the concert.

“I’ve been a long-time fan,” Ffolkes said. “I actually went to see them when I was a freshman here at the [Capital Centre]. I am looking forward to hearing some of the hits they made when I was going to college here.”

Senior Samantha Malone said seeing Knapp play the bongos made her night.

“That was the coolest thing ever,” Malone said. “It was the greatest part of the concert.”