Thom Bell: Philadelphia soul pioneer dies at 79

[BumRushDaShow]

Source: BBC

Thom Bell, one of the key architects of the richly-orchestrated Philly Soul sound, has died at the age of 79.

A prolific songwriter and producer, he had credits on dozens of timeless hits, including The Stylistics' Betcha By Golly Wow, The Spinners' Rubberband Man and The O'Jays' Backstabbers.

His publicist said he had died at home in Bellingham, Washington. No cause of death was given.

Nile Rodgers led tributes, calling Bell "one of the greatest... of all time".

Read more: https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-64074788

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Nile Rodgers
@nilerodgers
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#RIPThomBell He is one of the greatest writers and producers of all time. My condolences go out to his family and friends. He was the architect of the relationship between #BernardEdwards & me as we were the band for the group New York City (I'm Doing Fine Now) a Thom Bell smash
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3:11 PM · Dec 22, 2022

(Rodgers was leader and an integral part of the group Chic but produced/wrote for many others)

Bell was one of 3 here in Philly who created what became known as "The Sound of Philadelphia" (with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff).

Dozens of top hits came out of that outfit during the '70s. BBC included these (there are many more) -

Another sad loss this year.

R.I.P. to him, condolences to his family, and thank you thank you for some wonderful music over the years.

[maxsolomon]

1. Bellingham? Not where I'd have expected an R&B legend to be living.

But then again, Bernie Worrell of P-Funk lived in Everson WA, which is a dot on the map along the Nooksack River between BHam & the Canadian border.

[Brother Buzz]

2. Philly Groove Records, Baby!

[IcyPeas]

3. so many great hits

RIP and thanks for the music

[keroro gunsou]

4. RIP good sir

Smooth sailing as smooth as your voice, which we shall all miss.

[Mysterian]

5. Always loved Rubberband Man

Wow - what a performance!

[Mysterian]

6. What a wonderful life!

To add so much beauty to the world.

RIP Mr. Bell.

[Genki Hikari]

7. Loved Philly Soul

RIP Mr Bell. You helped make my teen years a wonderful thing.