The Sound of Philadelphia

Sir Lenny Henry presents a special concert marking 50 years since the release of seminal track TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia) – one of the defining songs of the Philly soul genre, and celebrating the legendary songwriting talents of Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff and Thom Bell.

This one-night-only event will feature hits from Philadelphia International Records' extensive back catalogue, performed by special guest singers Beverley Knight, Andrew Roachford, Omar Lye-Fook, Tony Momrelle, Ashton Jones, Derek Green, and Wayne Ellington, accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra and music director Chris Cameron.

Philadelphia International Records, founded in 1971, was a major force behind the Philly soul genre. Characterised by funk influences and lush string and horn arrangements, Philly soul would lay the groundwork for the emergence of disco later in the 1970s.

The label's roster included the O'Jays, Patti LaBelle, Lou Rawls, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, and Teddy Pendergrass among others, with hits including  Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now,  Don't Leave Me This Way,  Love Train,  Me and Mrs. Jones and When Will I See You Again.