Inductee Thom Bell arrives on the 2006 Songwriters Corridor of Fame induction ceremony on the Marriott Marquis Resort in New York.
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Thom Bell, the Grammy-winning producer who closely influenced Philadelphia soul music, died Thursday. He was 79.
His lawyer, Michael Silver, instructed the Philadelphia Inquirer that Bell handed away at his dwelling in Bellingham, Washington. A explanation for demise was not instantly out there.
Bell, Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff labored collectively to create “The Sound of Philadelphia” within the late Sixties and early ‘70s.
“Tommy and I've been finest buddies for over 60 years,” Gamble mentioned in an announcement to the Inquirer. “Once we first met, we determined to start out writing songs collectively and kind a singing duo, Kenny and Tommy, after which our band, The Romeos. Leon Huff and I had been proud to have him as a part of our Mighty Three music-writing staff, which helped create our signature model of TSOP.
“He was an ideal expertise and my pricey pal. The title of Gamble, Huff and Bell will final endlessly. Relaxation in peace, buddy!”
Huff instructed the outlet: ”Thom Bell was my favourite musician, arranger, songwriter and music producer of all time! It was my esteem, honor and pleasure to work with him creatively and as a enterprise accomplice. Relaxation in peace.”
Born to 2 musicians in Jamaica on Jan. 26, 1943, Bell was raised in West Philadelphia with 9 brothers and sisters. He studied classical piano, however would ultimately enterprise into the pop house.
He and Gamble began taking part in collectively within the group Kenny & the Romeos. Huff changed Bell on piano when he left the band.
An arranger and songwriter, Bell labored as a employees author and touring conductor for Chubby Checker. He additionally produced the Delfonics’ hits “La-La (Means I Love You)” and “Didn’t I (Blow Your Thoughts This Time).”
His different songwriting credit embody “I Can’t Take It” by the Orlons; and “You Make Me Really feel Model New” with Linda Creed.
He additionally organized the strings within the O’Jays’ 1972 hit “Again Stabbers.” The band was on Gamble and Huff’s Philadelphia Worldwide Data label.
“I’m a really impartial man,” Bell instructed The Inquirer in 2020. “I’m not a follower. I’m a pacesetter, and the individual I need to lead is me.” He usually repeated his private motto: “You by no means can inform while you’re with the Bell.”
He did collaborate with Elton John, Teddy Pendergrass, Deniece Williams and Johnny Mathis all through his profession. He additionally labored with Dionne Warwick, Lou Rawls, Anthony & The Imperials, and Dusty Springfield.
Bell was nominated for 3 Grammy Awards and received for Finest Producer of the 12 months in 1975. He was inducted into the Songwriters Corridor of Fame in 2006.
He's survived by his spouse, Vanessa; and his youngsters, Royal, Troy, Tia, Mark, Cybell and Christopher.
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