Philadelphia, PA. (Top40 Charts/ Philadelphia
Music Alliance) - The Philadelphia
Music Alliance Walk of Fame, a living tribute to Philadelphia's rich music history and a vital force unifying the city's diverse cultural communities along the Avenue of the Arts, will welcome five new inductees next week when R&B legend Billy Paul ("Me & Mrs. Jones"), Motown singer Tammi Terrell ("
Ain't No Mountain High Enough"), pioneering teen idol
Dee Dee Sharp ("Mashed Potato Time"), rock innovator Charlie Gracie ("
Butterfly"), and influential jazz trumpeter Clifford Brown (Miles Davis, Charlie Parker) will be honored together as recipients of the 108th through 112th commemorative bronze plaques along the Avenue of the Arts. Ceremonies are scheduled for Thursday, October 23 from noon-2 p.m.
The induction of this diverse group of legends cements the renewed commitment by the Philadelphia Music Alliance (PMA), supported by the Avenue of the Arts, Inc. (AAI), the Rhythm & Blues Foundation, Philadelphia International Records and A Fight for the Cause - launched in June with the jam-packed Avenue induction of Maze featuring Frankie Beverly - to shed new light on the City's cultural legacy and incredible contribution to the world of music past, present and future as a major tourist attraction. This agenda to recognize more local music greats is part of the community based, not-for-profit organization's overall mission to encourage the creation, celebration and historical preservation of Philadelphia music, and the foundation of a new commitment to schedule several induction ceremonies each year, starting in 2009.
"We're re-energizing our original mission of aggressively inducting artists in all genres whose accomplishments have had a significant impact in the world of music," says Joseph Tarsia, vice president and founding member of the PMA. "The overwhelming reception at this summer's induction ceremony re-affirmed the magnitude of the Walk of Fame and its continued impact on the Avenue of the Arts and Greater Philadelphia."
Karen Lewis, executive director of AAI, said, "We're excited about the resurgence of the Walk of Fame as it represents a unique opportunity to recognize Philadelphia legends. And as the premier destination for performing arts, the Avenue of the Arts is the perfect location for this tribute."
Adds music icons and original inductees Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, creators of the Sound of Philadelphia:
"Philadelphia has created some of the biggest music stars in the world and their music continues to impact people's lives. This induction continues to celebrate that legacy in a special way with artists who are clearly among Philadelphia's Music Royalty, and are among the legendary unsung heroes and heroines deserving this honor."
