I always remember listening to 'Backstabbers' and 'Love Train' by The OJays, the first 2 biggest hits for Philadelphia International Records and I couldn't get over the uniquness of the strings, the beat and the harmonies via MFSB.

And if you don't know what MFSB stands for, it is Mother Father Sister Brother and they were Sigma Sound Studio's incredible House band. That's what made me fall in love with this label and therefore Sigma Sound Studios.

For those that don't know, Sigma Sound was a recording studio in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania founded by recording engineer Joe Tarsia in 1968.Sigma Sound Studios holds a special place in music history. It became a hub for creativity and innovation.

Located in Philadelphia, it played a key role in the development of the "Philly Sound." This genre blended soul, funk, and pop, creating memorable hits. Located at 212 North 12th Street, it was one of the first studios in the United States to offer 24-track recording capacity and the first anywhere to successfully employ console automation.

Tarsia, formerly chief engineer at Philadelphia's Cameo-Parkway Studios, also opened Sigma Sound Studios of New York City in 1977, at the Ed Sullivan Theater building. Sigma Sound Studios stands as a monumental pillar in the history of music, particularly for its role in shaping the iconic Philly Sound. Sigma Sound Studios became the birthplace of a musical revolution that resonated far beyond the streets of Philadelphia

The Birth of the Philly Sound
The Philly Sound, also known as Philadelphia soul, is characterized by lush instrumental arrangements, smooth vocals, and a blend of R&B with pop influences. This unique sound was crafted by a talented group of producers, songwriters, and musicians who worked tirelessly at Sigma Sound Studios.

Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the masterminds behind Philadelphia International Records, were pivotal in creating this sound. Their collaboration with Thom Bell, a gifted arranger and producer, brought forth timeless hits that continue to influence music today2. Together, they produced classics like “Me and Mrs. Jones” by Billy Paul and “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes.

From my days reviewing records for newspapers and magazines, I was sent 45s from CBS records, which helped me fall in love with this unique sound. My passion for it took me to Philadelphia in 2013 and I was lucky enough to meet Joe Tarsia and others related to the label at ‘How I Wrote That Song’ Panel event, that was held there that June. 

I asked Joe if he missed the good old days, but he advised he was happy in retirement and had let his NY studio go. It was great to meet so many interesting people on this trip, especially Joe and Dexter Wansel, at that very special event.