Sure, there’s Detroit’s Motown, Los Angeles’ famed music scene, and we know all about the great records that were recorded and produced in New York City. However, during a certain, special period of time in the 1970s, Philadelphia reigned supreme. Philadelphia International Records was founded in 1971 by songwriting and production team Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff and their partner, Thom Bell. During their heyday, the label produced 170 gold and platinum records, many of which still remain radio mainstays.
Philadelphia International had its signature sound: slick and professional, full of angelic voices, lush strings and solid bass which was recorded at Philly’s famed Sigma Sound Studios. Two of the men who were behind the mixing board during many of these sessions were Arthur Stoppe and Jim Gallagher. They both join me for this episode to discuss two beautiful box sets recently released by United Soul and Philadelphia International Records. The first is The Sound of Philadelphia, Volume 1: Get on Board the Soul Train and the second is The Sound of Philadelphia Volume 2: Satisfaction Guaranteed.
Arthur and Jim let us in on some secrets related to these historic records, how they really feel about analog and digital recordings, and what was in the water in Philadelphia during the 1970s where all of this musical magic was allowed to happen. I don’t know if you’re hungry, but this episode might be served up best with your neighborhood’s finest cheesesteak; go ahead and order, just hit pause first. We’ll wait here.
Evan Toth is a songwriter, professional musician, educator, radio host, avid record collector, and hi-fi aficionado. Toth hosts and produces The Evan Toth Show and TVD Radar on WFDU, 89.1 FM. Follow him at the usual social media places and visit his website.
