The Sound of Philadelphia: Gamble & Huff's Greatest Hits

Various Artists
The Sound of Philadelphia: Gamble & Huff's Greatest Hits

Philadelphia International Records became a major player and influence on early ‘70s soul music with a string of hits highlighted by the lush and elaborate productions of songwriters Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. In 2008, Gamble and Huff were inducted into the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame and several collections of their finest (and obscure) work have been issued to remind the world of their invaluable contributions. These 14 tracks are among the company’s most recognizable tunes. From the O’Jays’ “Love Train” and “Back Stabbers” to Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes’ 1972 hit “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” (which was also a Grammy winning hit for Simply Red in 1989) to Billy Paul’s majestic 1972 hit “Me and Mrs. Jones” to later hits from Lou Rawls, the Blue Notes’ singer Teddy Pendergrass and Patti LaBelle, the Philadelphia International Records label defined a sweet spot for tight, gorgeous soul music that sounds as plush and luxuriant so many decades later. For those interested in listening beyond the hits, (Conquer the World, a collection of 16 obscure label tracks, offers a rewarding alternative experience.

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