Which 1978 Earth, Wind & Fire song features the lyric 'Ba-dee-ya'?

The 1978 Earth, Wind & Fire song featuring the lyric “Ba-dee-ya” is “September.”

Written by Maurice White, Al McKay, and Allee Willis, “September” was released as a single in 1978 and later appeared on the band’s 1978 compilation album The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 1. Its instantly recognizable refrain—“Ba-dee-ya, say do you remember”—helped make it one of Earth, Wind & Fire’s defining songs.

The lyric is memorable partly because “Ba-dee-ya” does not carry a literal dictionary meaning. Willis initially questioned the phrase while helping write the lyrics, but White reportedly insisted that the sound and rhythm mattered more than a precise definition. The nonsense syllables became central to the song’s exuberant, communal feel.

“September” is often mixed up with other major Earth, Wind & Fire hits. “Shining Star” came from the 1975 album That’s the Way of the World, “Let’s Groove” was a 1981 hit, and “Boogie Wonderland” was released in 1979. The song’s recurring date—“the 21st night of September”—has also inspired annual fan celebrations and social-media traditions.