My inspiration for this post came from my dear, longtime blogging friend, Debbie @ Musings by an ND Domer's Mom, who is not only a gifted...
As it is with any country, state and city, there seems to be certain “things” that they're infamous for in the way of being almost like a creative womb; giving birth to their cultural DNA and spirit.
Besides food, Philadelphia is also known for its birth of MUSIC. Many musicians and vocal artists hail from this city.
People such as: Frankie Avalon, Jill Scott, Mario Lanza, Patti Labelle, The Roots, Teddy Pendergrass, Hall & Oats, The Stylistics, and Billie Holiday.
There are a lot of different music genres that come out of Philadelphia, but for me personally, I’m most in tuned and connected to the sound of soul. I think I’m actually a black man living inside a white man because I feel soul music on such a deep cellular level that I can hardly contain myself whenever I hear it without wanting to move and groove. And trust me, I very often DON’T contain myself by snapping my fingers, moving my hips, and singing along with the lyrics; not caring who the hell is watching me. I even dance inside Trader Joe’s whenever I happen to go grocery shopping on the night they play Motown music. You haven't lived until you've seen me perform "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Diana Ross in the produce section of Trader Joe's, while singing into a cucumber.
If there is such a thing as reincarnation, I was most definitely a brotha’or sistah’ in MANY lifetimes.
One of the cool things about living in Philadelphia, like it is in many cities, are the street musicians who sing or play musical instruments and share their talents with the world.
Today, I would like to share some photographs of street musicians I captured over the past 4-5 months. And I present them with great joy and pride because they make living in this city special, by contributing their sound, magic and sparkle!
Please enjoy…
This gentleman is perhaps my favorite because he's got such a beautiful spirit. I wish I had a video clip to share, so that you could hear and see this guy in action. Not only does he have an INCREDIBLE voice, but it's the way he performs the songs that captures you because he sings with his whole heart and soul. Mark my words, one of these days this talented man will have a recording contract because he's THAT special.
This gentleman can often be seen on Walnut Street, playing is his guitar. He's got it connected to a small amp which gives the guitar a sound that's almost hypnotic. Whenever I spot him, I will stop and listen because his music is so beautifully alluring!
I saw this young man several weeks ago, playing his violin (which is my favorite musical instrument) and had to get a photograph. I think he must be a student at one of the music schools here in Philly. VERY talented young man. And I had never seen a black violin before, so it made me even more intrigued to stop and listen.
I spotted this gentleman many, many months ago, while I was walking through the courtyard in City Hall. What I loved about this guy and his music was that he played his flute with such enjoyment; creating a happy and uplifting feeling for those of us around him.
These guys are AWESOME! I saw them back at the beginning of Spring, performing next to The Reading Terminal Farmer's Market. I sat down on a bench across the street while sipping a coffee and totally enjoyed them. What I admired about these guys was how they played off each other and ad libbed as they went along.
I leave you with a short clip. *Notice the guy playing the tambourine, he's delightful!
Have a JAMMIN Monday, y'all!
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