Biography of MFSB

This instrumental ensemble punctuated many hits produced by the duo of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff in the '70s. They were a blend of string, horn, and rhythm players. The roster included bassist Larry Moore, keyboardist Lenny Pakula, guitarists Norman Harris, James Herb Smith, and Roland Chambers, drummer Earl Young, and percussionists/drummers Miguel Fuentes and Quinton Joseph. Gamble, Huff, Don Renaldo, Dexter Wansel, and Vince Montana all took turns conducting the orchestra. While backing the O'Jays, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, the Intruders, and many others, MFSB also cut several LPs as performers from 1973 through 1980. "TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)," with the Three Degrees, was Soul Train's theme song in 1974 and also topped the R&B and pop charts. They earned another hit in 1975 with "T.L.C. (Tender Lovin' Care)," which made it to number two. The title track of their final LP, "Mysteries of the World," was a big hit in England in 1980. They also did sessions with Melba Moore, the Stylistics, Spinners, and others outside the Philadelphia International umbrella. ~ Ron Wynn