Sir Lenny Henry, the renowned actor and comedian, has created a special playlist on BBC Sounds that pays homage to the rich and vibrant genre of Philadelphia soul music. This curated collection features some of Henry’s personal favorites, reflecting how deeply music has influenced his life and career.
The Essence of Philly Soul
A Journey Through Sound
In his playlist, Henry discusses the significance of music in his upbringing and how it has been the soundtrack to his experiences—both in the clubs and on the radio. The compilation accompanies The Sound of Philadelphia, a unique concert presented by Henry himself on BBC Radio 2 on Sunday, October 27, at 8 PM. The concert was recorded at the illustrious Royal Albert Hall to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Philadelphia International Records, a pioneering black-owned soul music label.
The Musical Legacy of Philadelphia International Records
The Philly soul genre, characterized by its funk influences and lush string and horn arrangements, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of popular music in the 1970s. This influential genre set the stage for the emergence of disco, captivating audiences with its melodic richness and rhythmic depth.
Philadelphia International Records boasted an impressive roster of legendary artists, including:
- The O’Jays
- Patti LaBelle
- Lou Rawls
- Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes
- Teddy Pendergrass
These artists delivered timeless hits like “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now,” “Don’t Leave Me This Way,” “Love Train,” “Me and Mrs. Jones,” and “When Will I See You Again.” Their contributions helped define the sound of an era and continue to resonate with listeners today.
Lenny Henry’s Musical Journey
Curated Playlist Highlights
Henry’s playlist on BBC Sounds includes tracks from various artists, showcasing the diverse sounds of Philly soul. Notable inclusions are:
- People’s Choice
- Archie Bell & The Drells
- Billy Paul
- The Jones Girls
In addition to the Philly soul playlist, Henry explores his extensive record collection in another show titled Lenny Henry’s Lifetime Anthems Playlist. In this compilation, he selects tunes and artists that have significantly impacted his life, featuring the likes of:
- Prince
- DJ Kool
- Beverley Knight
- Eddie Kendricks
- Soul II Soul
Personal Stories and Memories
Henry shares heartfelt anecdotes from his journey through music, recounting memorable encounters with his idols, including Prince and George Clinton. He also reflects on his friendship with Beverley Knight, who performed at his 60th birthday celebration, illustrating the personal connections that music fosters.
Availability of the Playlists
Both playlists—Sir Lenny Henry’s Philly Soul Playlist and Lenny Henry’s Lifetime Anthems Playlist—are available for streaming on BBC Sounds starting from Thursday, October 17. Listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in these collections, which not only celebrate the genre’s rich history but also highlight Henry’s personal journey with music.
Tune In and Celebrate
As fans eagerly await the concert and playlist release, Sir Lenny Henry invites everyone to experience the magic of Philadelphia soul. With its profound impact on his life, Henry’s playlists offer a unique opportunity to explore the sounds that have shaped his identity as an artist and a music lover.
