Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
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Leon Huff Puts A New Spin On Music Coming Out Of Philly With His Group Ju-Taun
There's a new spin on the classic Sound of Philadelphia, and one of the originators of TSOP is behind it.
Leon Huff, one part of the legendary powerhouse duo and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Gamble & Huff, is back and he's working with a new group - Ju-Taun. Huff took on the vocal group made up of brothers Jake and Jamie Evans and friend Samaouen Cheng after seeing them at TSOP Experience, a weekly talent showcase that was hosted by Gamble & Huff's label. Afterward, he signed Ju-Taun to his entertainment group Climax Entertainment.
Now, the group - under Huff's guidance - is out with a single and official music video. Check out the video below.
Insider Tip: Looking for more on Leon Huff? He also has his a new solo project out that he released on iTunes called "Groovy People"
Philly 360˚ Exclusive: Philly’s Got Jazz
You can’t dig jazz without first appreciating Philly’s incomparable jazz legacy. From swing to bop to smooth jazz—you name it, Philly’s played it. Not to mention that the greats such as Lee Morgan, John Coltrane, Ethel Waters, the Heath Brothers, Dizzie Gillespie, Grover Washington, Christian McBride and many more have all embraced Philly as their hometown.
Not only is Philly’s jazz scene known for its talent, but also for the indescribable vibe that lives within each venue. So, we rapped about jazz with noted Philly bassist Warren Oree at the Philadelphia Museum of Art; pianist and Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador Orrin Evans at SoleFood Restaurant; vocalist Sherry Wilson Butler at Relish; pianist Luke Carlos O’Reilly at Time; and vocalist Samantha Rise at World Cafe Live. If the names don’t ring a bell, prepare to get schooled. They let us in on the evolution of jazz as a unique American art form, and our love for the sound is on a totally different level.
Check out our interview with some of today’s hottest jazz musicians in Philly!
Philly Brings The Noise To The John Coltrane House
If you consider yourself a ‘jazz head,’ then you know that today made history. Similar to Art Kane’s A Great Day in Harlem photo, the City of Philadelphia brought together some of Philly’s greatest jazz artists and musicians for an epic photo in honor of Jazz Day and Jazz Appreciation Month. Not only did a gang of about 200 bad musicians come through, but it also brought light to the legendary John Coltrane’s Philadelphia home. It was a monumental moment in Philly history.
In addition to seeing notables like Alfie Pollitt, Warren Oree, Sherry Wilson Butler, Brett Jolly, Zenia McPherson, John Coltrane's cousin Mary and on-air personality Jeff Duperon of WRTI radio, we were also hyped to see Mayor Michael Nutter give the official Jazz Appreciation Month proclamation to one of Philly’s oldest living jazz legends—Charlie Rice! We’re still in awe.
Philly 360˚ Shout Out: Those young musical geniuses from the Philadelphia Clef Club Of Jazz Ensemble were definitely in the pocket today.
For more info on what’s happening during Jazz Appreciation Month, check this out. Make sure you get your JAM on in April!
Insider tip: There was even some talk of re-opening the John Coltrane House! We’ll keep you in the loop.
JAM In April For Jazz Appreciation Month
JAM In April For Jazz Appreciation Month
Looking for what’s in the pocket in Philly’s jazz scene this month? We’ve got what you need to groove. From jammin’ with Warren Oree at Relish to venue-hopping during the Center City Jazz Festival, there are plenty of happenings making some sweet noise.
Here’s how we plan to JAM:
Gigs
Wynton Marsalis: The Ballad of the American Arts
Tuesday, April 3
7:30 p.m.
Kimmel Center – Verizon Hall
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
City Hall Presents Jazz Bridge
Wednesday, April 11
5:30-6:30 p.m.
City Hall – Mayor’s Reception Room
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Friday, April 13
6 p.m.
230 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Jazz Groove: Sexy, Cool, and Oh So Sophisticated
Friday, April 13
9201 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Jazz Appreciation Concert with Anthony Tidd
Friday, April 20
11 a.m.
Kimmel Center – Commonwealth Plaza
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Insider tip: Anthony Tidd is also the Director of the Kimmel Center’s Creative Music Program.
Wells Fargo Presents: Jazz ‘til Sunrise
Saturday, April 21
10 p.m.-4:30 a.m.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Insider tip: Doc Gibbs, Tim Warfield and Ella Gahnt will be bringing the music until the sun comes up!
Philly Jazz Mural Tour & Breakfast
Saturday, April 22
5 a.m.
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Wells Fargo Presents: Jazz Up, Down and Around
Sunday, April 22
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Insider tip: The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble will tear up the stage with their tribute to jazz icon Lee Morgan.
Thursday, April 26-Sunday, April 29
Various times
7152 Ogontz Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19138
Insider tip: Look out for Sherry Butler’s interview in our upcoming jazz video series!
Saturday, April 28
1-8 p.m.
Chris’ Jazz Café, MilkBoy Philadelphia, Time Restaurant and Fergie’s Pub
Insider tip: Look out for performances by headliner Sean Jones, Ernest Stuart, Mike Boone, Denise King, Luke Carlos O'Reilly, Jessi Teich and more!
Saturday, April 28
Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts
736-38 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Insider tip: Jazz musicians taking us way back to celebrate the American Federation of Musicians Local 274.
Jams
Every Monday
1315 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
James Santangelo Trio & Open Mic
Every Tuesday
10 p.m.-2 a.m.
1421 Sansom St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Every Wednesday
8 p.m.
1400 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, 19147
Insider tip: Hosted by MoShay LaRen and special appearances by Luke O’Reilly!
Every Wednesday
7152 Ogontz Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19138
Insider tip: Featuring the sizzling sounds of the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble!
Wednesday, April 25
8 p.m.
Kimmel Center – Commonwealth Plaza
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Every Friday
6-8 p.m.
9201 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Insider tip: The new season starts back up on Friday, April 13.
Every Friday
8-11 p.m.
4912 Baltimore Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Grooves
Bone Apetit by Jeff Bradshaw
Insider tip: Check out Jeff Bradshaw’s new video for with Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador Marsha Ambrosius here. His album will be released on Tuesday, April 24.
Radio Music Society by Esperanza Spalding
Insider tip: Check out the album here.
Forever by Chick Corea
Insider tip: The album won two GRAMMY®’s this year—Best Improvised Jazz Solo and Best Jazz Instrumental Album! Check it out here.
For more insider info on what's happening for Jazz Appreciation Month, check out creativephl.org/jazz.
On The Reel: Video - DJ Jazzy Jeff At SXSW
Complex Magazine released an exclusive video of our Creative Ambassador, the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff spinning at the Red Bull Thre3Style Showcase at SXSW. Check out Jeff on the ones and twos. You might be surprised to hear what he played!
And, stay tuned. We were down at SXSW and have a full recap coming. Philly was all over SXSW.
And since we can't get enough of DJ Jazzy Jeff, take a look at our video of him talking about his hometown's music culture.
Philly 360° Legacy: Women’s History Month In Philly
When it comes to celebrating the legacy of history’s most incredible women, Philly knows how to show love to the ladies. As they say, there wouldn’t be such a thing as history without her story. Women like Madam C.J. Walker, Marian Anderson, Sojourner Truth, Ethel Waters and many others have all made it possible for women to rise up above oppression and create their own story. So, if you’re looking to experience Women’s History Month like never before, you’ve come to the right place.
Check out what’s happening in Philly for Women’s History Month:
African American Museum in Philadelphia
Sunday, March 25
1-3 p.m.
National Constitution Center
Daily
10-11:30 a.m.
Insider tip: Speaking of Philly girl power, make sure you visit the Marian Anderson House this month!
Bryn Mawr College
Ladies of Rennie Harris Puremovement
Friday, March 16
8 p.m.
Painted Bride Art Center
In This Place (by Ain Gordon)
Thursday, March 8 - Saturday, March 10
8 p.m.
Pennsylvania Convention Center
Philadelphia International Flower Show
March 4-11
Insider tip: Make it a ladies night during the Girls' Night Out event on Thursday, March 8!
Walnut Street Theatre
Through Sunday, March 11
Warmdaddy’s
Inside the Studio: Jaguar Wright, Aja, Jazzyfatnastees
Sunday, March 18
7-10 p.m.
Insider tip: RSVP here.
Relish
Thursday, March 22 – Sunday, March 25
Women’s History Month Social & Networking Event
Saturday, March 10
11-7 p.m.
**also taking place at Green Soul
Tower Theatre
Dark Girls featuring Viola Davis
Saturday, March 10
7 p.m.
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!
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.
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.
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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
