He was, without question, one of the seminal figures in soul music of the 1970s and early 80s. Thom Bell, one of the architects of Philadelphia soul, made a name for himself as the songwriter, producer and arranger of classic songs performed by The Spinners, The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Deniece Williams, Johnny Mathis and many more.
Less known was that Bell was himself a singer. He had a short career as the duet partner of Philly legend Kenny Gamble, and he sang background on many of his biggest production hits. But there are not many recordings of his lead vocals during his Imperial Period as a producer.
So this unearthed live performance at the 1987 Los Angeles ceremony for the National Academy of Songwriters is a special treat. Sitting at an acoustic piano, Bell performs many of his biggest compositions, his gentle tenor gliding through hit after hit.
Check out this rare performance below and enjoy. It is our “Lost Gem” of the week.
