Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
You are viewing 7 posts for February 2012
Love, Peace & Soul On The Parkway: Philly Breaks Record For Largest Soul Train Line
It was all love, peace and soul on the Parkway when nearly a thousand spectators and hundreds of dancers formed the largest, record breaking Soul Train line to honor the late Don Cornelius, creator and host of Soul Train, as well as legendary singer Whitney Houston.
With the help of co-host, WRNB on-air personality and Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador Dyana Williams, Philly broke the Guiness Book of World Records when 327 people danced down the Soul Train line, and they looked good doing it. Philly came out in their best 70s looks - from Afro wigs to bell bottoms and platforms. Mayor Michael Nutter aka Mixmaster Mike even made his way down the line to "Rappers Delight."
The Soul Train event was hosted by Radio One Philadelphia (home of 100.3 WRNB) and Manwell Glenn of WURD.
Check out the video below!
Behind The Screen With Maori: More Than A Month
During the first week of February, FAAN Mail—a media literacy and activism project formed in Philadelphia—launched the Twitter hashtag #WishiLearnedinHS to call attention to the ethnic studies ban in Arizona. It was quite appropriate to launch the campaign in February, also known as Black History Month.
“Black history is American history,” says 29-year-old filmmaker Shukree Hassan Tilghman in his provocative new film, More Than A Month, which opens the dialogue about the idea of ethnic heritage observations. His documentary is an engaging chronicle of his cross-country journey to end the observance of the 87-year-old tradition.
The bold film investigates race and equality in a so-called post-racial America and asks the question, ‘Should Black History Month end?’ But, also explores why the history of African-Americans is observed as somehow separate from the history of the country. (i.e., how do you talk about President Washington’s Philadelphia home without talking about the slaves who worked for him?)
Tilghman starts his one-year odyssey in Washington, DC and travels to Lexington, VA, Philadelphia, PA, Cambridge, MA, Chicago, IL and four other cities. Along the way, he participates in a psychological study, interviews advertisers who market to African-Americans, and researched Black History Month’s founding father, Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
At its core, More Than A Month is ultimately about what it means to fight for one’s rightful place in the landscape of Americana, no matter how one’s family arrived on these shores.
The film will premiere on February 16 on WHYY. Watch the trailer here.
And, don’t miss the Philadelphia screening of More Than a Month with Shukree Hassan Tilghman:
February 21, 2012
6:30 p.m.
Community College of Philadelphia
1700 Spring Garden Avenue
To RSVP, click here.
Insider Tip: Download More Than A Mapp, a smartphone app based on the film that uses GPS to point users in the direction of the nearest African-American history locale. You can even add your own historical points to the map!
Philly 360° Legacy: Gamble & Huff Celebrate 50 Years
Last year marked 40 years of the legendary record label Philadelphia International Records (PIR) and the timeless Sound of Philadelphia (TSOP) that's saturated the air waves over the last four decades. And this year, the founders of PIR have even more reasons to celebrate. It's the 50th anniversary of the partnership between the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. In 50 years, their partnership never skipped a beat.
People of all generations and nationalities have fallen in love with The Sound of Philadelphia (TSOP). With unforgettable songs like "Wake Up Everybody," "Love Train" and "I’ll Always Love My Mama," Gamble & Huff have had a significant impact on today’s music industry. Get to know about their legacy below.
Insider tip: Listen to Gamble & Huff's hits 24/7 on TSOP Soul Radio here.
The Legacy
Before there was a Philadelphia International Records, there were two prolific songwriters who had been writing R&B hits throughout the 60s--Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. The very first time this duo sat down to write a song, they wrote 10 songs in one sitting. And, as Gamble says, "It's been that way ever since."
The music pioneers founded the label Philadelphia International Records (PIR) in 1971. Through the guidance of music mogul and then president of CBS Clive Davis, Gamble & Huff's label secured a major distribution deal through CBS, the largest national label at the time. Within the first year of PIR opening, they had multiple number one hits on the R&B and pop charts, including "Back Stabbers" and "Love Train" by the O'Jays, "If You Don't Know Me By Now" by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, and "Me and Mrs. Jones" by Billy Paul. The label also received its first Grammy Award for the Billy Paul hit.
Over the next decade, PIR artists and songs took over the R&B and pop charts. By 1973, PIR was the second-largest African-American-owned music company. By the following year, Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff and their Mighty Three Music publishing partner Thom Bell placed over 25 songs on the charts. Mighty Three Music became the biggest-selling music publishing company that year.
Since founding Philadelphia International Records, the powerhouse production duo have written and produced over 3,500 songs within 50 years. Gamble & Huff were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008, and they are also Grammy winners and BMI songwriters' awards honorees. Their extensive catalogue also includes numerous pop #1 hits, R&B #1 hits, 100 gold and platinum records. It's estimated that one of their songs is played on radio somewhere in the world every 13.5 minutes. The Gamble & Huff catalog has been sampled by a number of today’s top artists such as Usher, The Roots, John Legend, Kanye West and many more.
Philly 360⁰ Shout Out to Gamble & Huff on 50 years of unforgettable music.
Black History Month: The Philly Imprint
Black History Month is so much more than a quick history lesson in less than 30 days. It’s about celebrating the incredible achievements and contributions of the African-American community, and embracing African-Americans who are making moves all year long. And, Philly’s rich African-American history and culture is full of fascinating stories and history-makers. Here’s how we plan to celebrate this month: the brilliant works of art highlighted in the Henry Ossawa Tanner: Modern Spirit exhibition, an electrifying tribute to Miles Davis, an insider’s look into the captivating murals of the African American Iconic Images Collection and a jam-packed lineup of festivities during the Imagine Africa Community Day. So join the celebration in Philly as we spread lots of love and honor heroes of the past, present and future.
Philly 360˚ Shout Out: All month long, Our Black History Month media partners CBS 3/The CW Philly and KYW Newsradio 1060 are helping us highlight the African-Americans who are making history today. Keep your eyes out for their Black History Month features. The celebration wouldn't be complete without them!
Featured Events
Through Wednesday, February 29 - Breaking Barriers Show
The National Constitution Center hosts the month-long Breaking Barriers Show, an intriguing piece that delves into the lives of Thurgood Marshall, Jackie Robinson, Bessie Coleman and other influential African-Americans.
Friday, February 10 – Tribute to Miles Davis
If there’s one group of musicians that can put on an authentic tribute to the legendary Miles Davis, it’s the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble. Featuring one of Philly’s most powerful trumpeters, Tony Smith, this show brings Miles’ unforgettable hits to the Woodmere Art Museum. Get your tickets today!
Saturday, February 11 – Philadelphia Guitar Summit Presents Kala Jojo
Grab your guitar and get ready to jam during the Art Sanctuary’s new program with the Philadelphia Guitar Summit featuring Kala Jojo. They’ll dig deep into the history and origins of guitar-like instruments, and will be playing some sweet grooves, too.
Sunday, February 12 – GRAMMY® Telecast Party
Just because you can’t make it to the GRAMMY®’s doesn’t mean you can’t take part in the celebration right here in Philly. Hosted by the legendary Lady B, this is your chance to show off your bowling skills at Lucky Strike and mingle with the “it” crowd. Don’t miss out on music’s biggest night!
Insider tip: Join the Recording Academy today for access to even more exclusive festivities.
Sunday, February 12 – Jeffrey Osborne
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and Jeffrey Osborne’s performance at the Keswick Theatre is right on time. Songs like You Should Be Mine and Love Ballad can always set the mood for a perfect night of romance. Looking for the perfect gift for your boo? Add tickets to this show to the list.
Saturday, February 18 – Imagine Africa Community Day
If you haven’t seen the Imagine Africa exhibit at the Penn Museum, it’s not too late. As part of the museum’s Black History Month celebration, Imagine Africa Community Day will spice it up with free live music, dance, storytelling and other engaging activities.
Saturday, February 18 – Freedom Bound with Erica Armstrong Dunbar
Stenton hosts a soul-stirring new program for Black History Month called Freedom Bound: African American Women in 18th and 19th Century Philadelphia. Presented by University of Delaware professor Erica Armstrong Dunbar, the program depicts the struggles African American women experienced on the road to emancipation.
Saturday, February 25 – Terell Stafford Quintet
Jazz it up as the Kimmel Center’s Jazz Up Close series plays tribute to jazz icon Lee Morgan. The Terell Stafford Quintet will play an explosive set inspired by Lee’s unforgettable bebop style.
Saturday, February 25 – African American Iconic Images Workshop & Tour
The African American Museum in Philadelphia explores the brilliant work of the Mural Arts Program’s African American Iconic Images Collection. Being that Philly has one of the most astounding African-American mural collections in the country, this workshop and tour will take you on a journey through African-American history like you’ve never seen before.
Tuesday, February 28 – A Conversation with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
Henry Louis Gates, Jr., esteemed author and Harvard University professor, brings an incredible new piece of literature to the Free Library of Philadelphia for Black History Month. Life Upon These Shores explores the history of the African-American experience from the Age of Discovery to the election of President Obama. Don’t miss this compelling conversation!
Spotlights
If you’re looking for a Valentine’s Day hook-up, this is for you. We’re helping couples celebrate their love in style all month long with 29 Nights of Dates. Shout out to Fox 29, the official station of love this winter! Enter the contest here.
Black History Month always calls for a celebration in Philly, and our arts & culture insider James Claiborne is breaking down what’s happening in the scene. From the Henry Ossawa Tanner: Modern Spirit exhibit to the African American Iconic Images Collection tour, there’s something to do every day of the month. Check out his top picks.
Love is in the air, and Philly’s full of romantic festivities for all lovebirds. Whether you’re into quiet dinners or lively performances, there’s plenty to choose from. Check out our top picks for the perfect Valentine’s Day rendezvous.
We caught up with soulstress and Creative Ambassador Carol Riddick. From Ms. Tootsie’s to the Kevyn Michael boutique, check out what this fabulous Philly native loves most about her hometown.
Looking to add that smooth factor to your Friday night? The Woodmere Art Museum will host a series of jazz performances featuring some of the hottest jazz cats out there. Grab a cocktail and get ready to groove.
James' Arts & Culture Revival: Philly Celebrates Black History Month
As the birthplace of the nation, there's no place else that does history quite like Philadelphia—especially African-American history. Philly is the home of historic African-American artists like Billie Holiday, Marian Anderson, John Coltrane and Henry Ossawa Tanner, while famous civil rights activists like Sam Evans and Cecil B. Moore also called our great city home. BTW - did you know that The Philadelphia Tribune, founded in 1884, still stands today as the country's oldest African-American newspaper?
Like I said - no one does history like Philly! For Black History Month, there are lots of exciting events happening all over town celebrating this rich American legacy. To help all of us navigate this fantastic whirlwind of activity, I've broken down a few of my Black History Month top picks below. So here's to a fantastic February full of celebration, history, legacy and of course plenty of Philly love!
Black History Month Top Picks:
The Scottsboro Boys
January 20 - February 19
480 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
The Philadelphia Theatre Company brings us the Tony® Award-nominated musical, The Scottsboro Boys. An electrifying and emotional tour de force, this semi-controversial musical chronicles the story of a group of African-American young men falsely accused of attacking a white women in Alabama during the 1930's.
It's based upon the once-popular ministrel-show style and features an awe-inspiring cast of triple threat performers more than capable of entertaining and moving any audience. So, don't miss this powerful retelling of a piece of American history told through music and dance.
Henry Ossawa Tanner: Modern Spirit
January 28 - April 15, 2012
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)
205 N. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
One of the most prolific and pioneering African-American artists of our time, Henry Ossawa Tanner got his start as an artist right here in Philadelphia at The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. As an American expatriate artist, Tanner would go on to achieve the highest levels of international accolades, something almost unheard of for African-American artists during his time.
So join PAFA, as they bring Tanner's life and legacy home to Philadelphia, for a unique and truly universal look at the life, art and significance of this luminary figure of African-American and world history.
African American Winemakers
Saturday, February 4
7 p.m.
127 S. 22nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Celebrate Black History Month with this one-of-a-kind class dedicated to exploring the ever-growing group of African-American winemakers from California to South Africa. This is the perfect chance for all of you budding Philly someliers to come out to sharpen your skills, discuss and of course sample this exceptional winemaking craftsmenship.
This class is certain to be a unique wine experience not to be missed!
Breaking Barriers Show
February 1 through 29
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
During Black History Month, the National Constitution Center will highlight the lives of historic African-Americans in their new feature, the Breaking Barriers Show. This show explores the impact of historic African-American figures like Thurgood Marshall, Jackie Robinson, Bessie Smith and other individuals who have made contributions to American and world history.
African American Iconic Images Workshop & Tour
Saturday, February 25
12-1 p.m.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
With the contributions of The CIty of Philadelphia's Mural Arts Program, Philly has been transformed into a massive beautiful outdoor canvas, complete with over 3,000 murals. For this exciting program, The African American Museum in Philadelphia will explore the brilliant work of the Mural Arts’ African American Iconic Images Collection. Be sure to be on the lookout for murals produced by artist extraordinaire, Philly 360° Creative Ambassador Ernel Martinez!
For more details on what's happening in Philly for Black History Month, you can also check out PhillyFunGuide.com.
Black History Month - Legacy Sites In West Philly & Historic Germantown
Like we said, Phily is the place to be for Black History Month. And, the sites don't stop in Historic Philadelphia. Here are our picks of places you need to see in West Philly and Historic Germantown.
West Philadelphia Legacy Sites
The African Gallery at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology
3260 South Street | (215) 898-4000
The African gallery here is probably the closest you’ll come to visiting an entire continent in one day. Materials on display come from a collection that includes more than 11,000 items from throughout the vast land of Africa. The museum’s annual Celebration of African Cultures and its extensive ancient Egyptian galleries and programs always draw a crowd.
Insider Tip: Make sure you check out their new exhibit Imagine Africa.
4949-4951 Walnut Street | (215) 747-4675
Renaissance man Paul Robeson was an actor, orator, activist, lawyer, author, linguist, athlete, singer, scholar and human rights activist. Tour the West Philadelphia home where he lived during the last 10 years of his life.
9 N. Philadanco Way (40th & Market Streets) | (215) 387-8200
Joan Myers Brown founded The Philadelphia Dance Company (PHILADANCO) in 1970 to provide opportunities for Black dancers. PHILADANCO has since become an internationally sought out contemporary dance company, known for its high-energy performances and exceptionally well-trained precision dancers and eclectic choreography. You can see the company perform at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, located at 260 S. Broad Street, each spring and fall.
Underground Railroad Museum at Belmont Mansion
2000 Belmont Mansion Drive (Fairmount Park) | (215) 878-8844
With stunning views of the city skyline, the mansion, located atop Belmont Plateau, was the home of well-known abolitionist and early federal Judge Richard Peters. The Women’s Heritage Society offers docent-led and self-guided tours of the museum Tuesday through Friday and on weekends by appointment.
Insider Fact: Belmont Plateau, referenced in “Summertime” by Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff, is also featured in the duo’s music video. We took DJ Jazzy Jeff back to this spot for the first time in 12 years. Check out the video.
Historic Germantown Legacy Sites
5801-5803 Germantown Avenue (Historic Germantown) | (215) 842-3742
The ACES MUSEUM is a rarity, in that its sole purpose is to honor African-American and minority veterans of World War II and their families. ACES is also home to the Puppets with History and Reenactment Programs. The museum offers free admissionon on Tuesday afternoons.
Cliveden of the National Trust
6401 Germantown Avenue (Historic Germantown) | (215) 848-1777
Home to the wealthy and influential Chew family and the scene of the Revolutionary Battle of Germantown in 1777, Cliveden offers guided tours of the mansion. New research into Chew’s papers reveals much about slavery and the daily life on Northern plantations.
Concord School House and Upper Burying Ground
6309 Germantown Avenue (Historic Germantown) | (215) 844-1683
By the 1850s, African Americans had begun to rent this first English-language schoolroom to teach penmanship and host meetings to advance the abolitionist cause and education for African Americans. Tour this original one-room schoolhouse.
Insider’s Tip: Make time to tour the burying ground outside of the schoolhouse, which is the final resting place of soldiers of the American Revolution, the War of 1812 and the Mexican War.
6306 Germantown Avenue (Historic Germantown) | (215) 438-1768
The Johnson House Historic Site is a certified station stop on the Underground Railroad, where archaeologists recently discovered an attic trap door that hid freedom seekers. Visitors can see the door and other unique features of the house during guided tours.
5442 Germantown Avenue | (215) 597-7130
While many people look to Washington D.C. as the original White House, those in the know know that Philadelphia is home to the oldest presidential residence in the United States. The Deschler-Morris House was the summer home of President George Washington and after an extensive renovation, now features multimedia components that allow visitors to get a glimpse into the private life of the nation’s first commander-in-chief.
Additional Insider Tips & Facts
Insider fact: The Philadelphia Tribune
The oldest, continually published African-American newspaper in the nation, The Tribune, founded in 1884, remains a strong voice in Philadelphia’s African-American community. It’s published three times a week and available at newsstands around town.
Insider fact: Philadelphia Museum of Art
African-American architect Julian Abele played a large role in designing the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Insider fact: Church of the Advocate
One of the best American examples of Gothic Revival style, the Church of the Advocate was a center for the Civil Rights Movement and was the site for the National Conference of Black Power in 1968 and the Black Panther Conference in 1970. Today, the functioning church features powerful murals depicting “stations” of the Civil Rights Movement. The Church also hosts performances and programs presented by Art Sanctuary (see below listing). Listen to former Pastor Isaac Miller talk about the history of Church of the Advocate and Art Sanctuary here.
Insider fact: Art Sanctuary
Art Sanctuary uses the power of black art to transform individuals, unite groups of people and enrich and draw inspiration from the inner city. The organization presents lectures, performances and educational programs at its large performance venue the Church of the Advocate at 1801 W. Diamond Street and at its gallery at 628 S. 16th Street. Art Sanctuary’s largest signature program, the Celebration of Black Writing takes place during the first weekend in June at Temple University. Art Sanctuary is opening it's new space, details here. Listen to former Pastor Isaac Miller talk about the history of Church of the Advocate and Art Sanctuary here.
Insider tip: Brandywine Workshop
A major force in the creation, development and promotion of printmaking as a fine art, Brandywine Workshop has exhibitions and a great store featuring high quality affordable prints.
Black History Month - Legacy Sites & Attractions In Historic Philadelphia
Philadelphia is the place to celebrate Black History Month, and Philly 360° Legacy has your guide to African-American historic sites and attractions in Philadelphia. Check out our list of our top historic sites and cultural attractions in Historic Philadelphia below.
Historic Philadelphia Legacy Sites
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street | (215) 574-0380
The perfect starting point for your African-American tour, the museum invites visitors to experience face-to-face encounters with the bold and fearless people who helped form our nation through its acclaimed core exhibit Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia 1776-1876. The exhibition provides a multimedia historical overview of the African-American story with videos, a detailed, interactive timeline and more. Every month, the museum features events like art exhibitions, storytelling, historical character interpretations, film series and musical celebrations, almost all of which are free with admission.
The President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation
6th & Market Streets (Historic District)
Just steps from the Liberty Bell, the President’s House deals with the paradox of slavery and freedom and commemorates the lives of the nine enslaved Africans who lived and worked in the first executive mansion when George Washington was president. The innovative outdoor site features video, original archaeology and glass interpretive panels, all telling different perspectives of this complex and powerful story.
6th & Market Streets (Historic District) | (800) 537-7676
The Liberty Bell was not only used for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence, but in the 1800s, it also became a symbol of the anti-slavery movement. The Bell continues to be used as an international symbol of freedom today.
Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church and Richard Allen Museum
419 S. 6th Street (Historic District) | (215) 925-0616
Standing on the oldest parcel of land continuously owned by African Americans, perhaps no site is more sacred than Mother Bethel. The church is one of the first independent black churches in the nation and has remained a center of social activism since the 1700s. The museum features original artifacts dating back to the 1500s. Listen to Bishop Leath talk about the history of Mother Bethel here.
Insider Tips & Facts
Insider tip: Independence Visitor Center
Offering tickets to Independence Hall (free, timed tickets), Mural Arts tours, the National Constitution Center and various city tours and attractions, the Independence Visitor Center is a convenient stop at any point during your stay (especially the beginning part of your visit), located at 6th & Market Streets. In addition to two cafés, the Center features revolving exhibitions, free short movies, a gift shop and free wireless internet access.
Insider tip: President Obama’s "A More Perfect Union"
While in Historic Philadelphia, stop by the National Constitution Center (525 Arch Street) and look for President Barack Obama’s signed copy of his famous speech on race, “A More Perfect Union.”
Insider tip: Trace Your Genealogy
Trace your genealogy at The National Archives at Philadelphia (900 Market Street, entrance on Chestnut Street between 9th & 10th Streets)—and on select Wednesdays, take part in their genealogy workshops between 12:00 noon and 2:00 p.m. Experience free exhibits exploring how “We, the people” have worked to make the American democracy apply to everyone, and connect to your family’s story.
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- Philly360: RT @uwishunu: 56 Hour Celebration: @The_Barnes is celebrating its opening with 56 hours of free access & activities this weekend: ht ...
- Posted May 24, 2012 5:12PM
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- Philly360: Video: Will Smith on the set of MIB3 http://t.co/xKfxl1h5
- Posted May 24, 2012 5:10PM
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- Philly360: Planning a family trip to Philly? Check out @MommyFactor's list of attractions: @TheFranklin @aampmuseum @phillyzoo http://t.co/HIQocJ31
- Posted May 24, 2012 4:54PM
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- Philly360: Enjoying lunch with @mommyfactor and @KyleenTheDiva at City Tavern!
- Posted May 24, 2012 1:37PM
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- Philly360: Have you toured the @muralarts African-American Iconic Images Collections? http://t.co/SNzJNo0g #withartphl
- Posted May 23, 2012 5:16PM
