TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)
“TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)” is a 1974 hit recording by MFSB (Mother, Father, Sister, Brother) featuring vocals by The Three Degrees. A classic example of the Philadelphia soul genre, it was written by Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff as the theme for the American musical television program Soul Train, which specialized in African American musical performers. The single was released on the Philadelphia International label, and it is arguably the first disco song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. (More from Wikipedia)
I guess I am stalling a little because no one seems to know much about Stratavarious, or their lead singer, who goes by the name of Lady. The band was put together by John L. (Johnny) Usry, Jr., who was the producer and arranger and also the orchestral conductor. He had previously worked with the Three Degrees, who one time provided the vocals on a new theme song for Soul Train. (The show’s long-time host, Don Cornelius died just last month). Public demand led to its release as a single; under the name “TSOP” by MFSB, it was a monster R&B hit in 1974. (The initials stand for “The Sound of Philadelphia” and “Mother Father Sister Brother”).
(March 2012)
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One memorable time for me was hearing the 1973 hit song “TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)” by MFSB Featuring the Three Degrees for at least a half-hour at one North Carolina club. “TSOP” was a new theme song for the popular Soul Train television program and was the first TV theme to sell one million copies. “TSOP” is regarded as one of the foundation songs of the disco sound.
(September 2016)
