In 2021 Philadelphia International, perhaps second only to Motown as one of the best-known labels the world has ever known, is celebrating it's 50th Anniversary. It seems therefore appropriate to look at Philadelphia's R&B, Doo wop and early soul roots that inspired Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff to stop performing and form their own record labels in the mid-60s. The city was home to a great many labels who helped to usher in the sound of what came to be called soul music, Cameo Parkway, V-Tone, Swan and Heritage are all represented. The talent that emerged on these labels left an indelible impression on the development of soul music and include: Garnet Mimms (in The Gainors); Bobby Parker; The Orlons; Dee Dee Sharp; Don Covay and Lee Andrews. Here are 29 proto soul tracks by some of the greatest artists to have emerged from the city of Philadelphia. Fully detailed liner notes.

Tracklist:

Little Joe and the Thrillers - Peanuts
Bobby Peterson Quintet - the Hunch
The Blue Notes - My Hero
Chubby Checker - the Twist
Bobby Peterson - Irresistible You
The Dreamlovers - When We Get Married
Bernard Byers - No Time to Cry
Bobby Parker - Watch Your Step
Bobby Parker - Steal Your Heart Away
The Gainors - This Is a Perfect Moment
The Gainors - Tell Him
Lee Andrews - You Gave to Me
Lee Andrews and the Hearts - a Night Like Tonight
The Dreamlovers - If I Should Lose You
Farris Hill ; the Madison Brothers - Did We Go Steady Too Soon
Jimmy Dee ; His Universals - (In My Heart) You'll Always Remain
Jimmy Dee ;The Universals - If It Wasn't for Pride
Big Boy Myles - She's So Fine
Dee Dee Sharp - Mashed Potato Time
The Orlons - the Wah-Watusi
Dee Dee Sharp - Ride!
The Orlons - Don't Hang Up
Don Covay - the Popeye Waddle
Teddy and the Twilights - I'm Just Your Clown
Mark Valentino - the Push and Kick
The Sherrys - Pop Pop Pop-Pie
Teddy ; the Twilights - Woman Is a Man's Best Friend
The Blue-Belles - I Sold My Heart to the Junkman
Claudine Clark - Party Lights

UPC: 604988113624
Label: Jasmine Records
Release Date: 11.26.21
Format: CD

Watch Your Step: The Soulful Roots Of Philadelphia - Watch Your Step: The Soulful Roots Of Philadelphia (CD)