PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Dell Music Center closed out the summer with a tribute to legendary Philadelphia songwriters Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff.<\/p>\n
It comes after a year of celebrating the city’s cultural legacy and America’s 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n
“As Philadelphia continues to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we continue to recognize the people, culture and accomplishments that have shaped our city and our nation,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker.<\/p>\n
On Thursday night, the duo got to sit back and watch their legacy of music sung and celebrated before thousands.<\/p>\n
The concert celebrated 55 years of Philadelphia International Records, founded by Gamble and Huff in 1971, bringing artist like The Spinners, The Delfonics, The Three Degrees, The O’Jays , Jean Carne and Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes to international fame.<\/p>\n
They created the iconic Sound of Philadelphia in the 1970s, which is a distinctive blend of soul, R&B, orchestration and socially conscious lyrics.<\/p>\n
“Gamble and Huff wrote so many songs for us, I can’t even name them,” said Roger Banks, a member of Legendary Blue Notes featuring Sugar Bear. “They’ve been doing this since Mickey was a mouse. I’m glad to be a part of the legacy from Harold Melvin.”<\/p>\n
Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff say all they wanted was to create a ‘message in their music’ of love and empowerment. They say they are honored to be celebrated in their hometown.<\/p>\n
Music pioneer Thom Bell was also honored.<\/p>\n
“So often you hear of someone passing, getting sick; give them their flowers while they can see them,” said WDAS radio personality Miss Patty Jackson. “They did so many signature songs!”<\/p>\n
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