Philadelphia International: The 40th Anniversary Box Set - Track Listing & Details!

[Ian Dewhirst]

Hot on the heels of Philadelphia International Classics: The Tom Moulton Remixes we're proud to announce the forthcoming release of.......

Philadelphia International: The 40th Anniversary Box Set

Harmless HURTBOX001 Release Date: 21st May 2012








Following on from the recent Top 40 album ‘Philadelphia International: The Re-Edits” and the Current No.21 album ‘Philadelphia International Classics: The Tom Moulton Remixes’, it gives us great pleasure to introduce Philadelphia International: The 40th Anniversary Box Set – the most complete and comprehensive study of the Philadelphia International catalogue to date.

We invited world acknowledged Philadelphia International expert Ralph Tee to return to compile his second Box Set for the label following his previous ground-breaking 14 x vinyl LP box set in 1986 [[over 25 years ago) which still regularly sells for £100+ on e-bay and throughout collectors circles. This time Ralph has the added benefit of a further 25 years of experience studying the Philadelphia International operation and a lot more time to play with over twelve and a half hours of pure quality music from one of the greatest labels of all time.

Also included within the package will be a 60 page full-size booklet containing full sleeve notes and track details from Ralph Tee [[Ralph is also author of the definitive “Who’s Who In Soul Music”) which will also include a number of archive photos and key album scans.

We are also proud to include within the booklet for the first time ever, a fully comprehensive complete discography of all U.S. Philadelphia International and related labels compiled by Philadelphia International expert David Grimes [[aka ‘Phillydave’). An absolute must for all Philly collectors and especially Philadelphia International archivists as there has never been an officially printed full discography before.

All recordings will be fully re-mastered to the highest quality.

We will be doing a series of specially commissioned film clips of both Ralph Tee and Richard Searling interviewing Philadelphia International co-founder Kenny Gamble. This will be distributed via various social network forums, blogs and You Tube in the weeks leading up to release.

Track Listing

CD 1

1. Zach's Fanfare # 2 Original Album Version 1.03 M.F.S.B.
2. K-Jee Original Album Version 4.12 M.F.S.B.
3. T.S.O.P. [[The Sound Of Philadelphia) Original Single Version 3.17 M.F.S.B. feat The Three Degrees
4. Message In The Music Original Single Version 3.21 The O'Jays
5. Sexy Original Single Version 3:10 M.F.S.B.
6. Let's Groove Original Single Version 3.03 Archie Bell & The Drells
7. Backstabbers Original Single Version 3:03 The O'Jays
8. The Love I Lost Original Single Version 3.32 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
9. When Will I See You Again Original Single Version 2.57 The Three Degrees
10. I Love Music Original Album Version 6.51 The O'Jays
11. I'll Always Love My Mama Original Single Version 2.41 The Intruders
12. Year Of Decision Original Single Version 2:38 The Three Degrees
13. The Soul City Walk Original Single Version 3.08 Archie Bell & The Drells
14. Bad Luck Original Album Version 6.24 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
15. Do It Any Way You Wanna Original Single Version 3:14 People's Choice
16. Philly Jump Original Album Version 5.06 Instant Funk
17. Take Good Care Of Yourself Original Single Version 3.03 The Three Degrees
18. Love Is The Message Original Album Version 6.36 M.F.S.B.
19. Show You The Way To Go Original Single Version 3.28 The Jacksons
20. Darlin' Darlin' Baby Original Album Version 4:17 The O'Jays

Running Time CD1: 75.45

CD 2

1. Win Place or Show [[She's A Winner) Original Single Version 2.27 The Intruders
2. 992 Arguments Original Single Version 2.21 The O'Jays
3. Dirty Ol' Man Original Single Version 3.12 The Three Degrees
4. Satisfaction Guaranteed Or Take Your Love Back Original Single Version 3.26 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
5. Love Train Original Album Version 6.15 The O'Jays
6. Get Down With The Philly Sound Original Album Version 4.29 M.F.S.B.
7. Jam Jam Jam [[All Night Long) Original Album Version 3.37 People's Choice
8. A Nice Girl Like You Original Album Version 3.20 The Intruders
9. If You Don't Know Me By Now Original Single Version 3.23 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
10. Me & Mrs Jones Original Album Version 4.47 Billy Paul
11. Wake Up Everybody Original Album Version 7.31 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
12. For The Love Of Money Original Single Version 3.32 The O'Jays
13. Don't Leave Me This Way Original Album Version 6.05 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
14. Livin' For The Weekend Original Single Version 2.52 The O'Jays
15. You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine Original Album Version 4:27 Lou Rawls
16. Free Love Original Album Version 4:02 Jean Carn
17. People Power Original Album Version 4:17 Billy Paul
18. Nobody Could Take Your Place Original Album Version 5:01 Dee Dee Sharp Gamble

Running Time CD 2: 75.34

CD 3

1. You're The Reason Why Original Single Version 3.03 The Ebonys
2. Days Go By Original Single Version 2.36 Bobby Bennett
3. New York City’s A Lonely Town Original Album Version 3.07 Dick Jensen
4. Stop And Think Original Single Version 3.07 The Trammps
5. One Day Of Peace Original Single Version 2.48 Love Committee
6. The Devil Made Me Do It Original Single Version 4.30 Robert Upchurch
7. Who In The World Original Single Version 3.59 The Ethics
8. Do You Like The Way I Love Original Single Version 3.04 The Ebonys
9. Never Let You Get Away From Me Extended Single Version 4.33 Anthony White
10. I'm A Changed Person Original Single Version 3.13 Kaleidoscope
11. If You Move, You Lose Original Single Version 2.57 Carolyn Crawford
12. I'm So Glad I'm Me 3:03 Original Album Version 3.01 The Ebonys
13. Can’t Believe That You Love Me Original Album Version 3.53 Bunny Sigler
14. You Bring Out The Best In Me Original Single Version 3.15 Derek & Cyndi
15. Hey Baby Original Single Version 2.52 Anthony White
16. Where Do We Go From Here Original Album Version 4.27 The Trammps
17. Good & Plenty Original Album Version 2.41 Carolyn Crawford
18. Yellow Sunshine Original Album Version 4.07 Yellow Sunshine
19. To Be Happy Is The Real Thing Original Album Version 3.22 The Intruders
20. It's Forever Original Single Version 4.32 The Ebonys

Running Time CD 3: 69.41


CD 4

1. Where Are All My Friends Original Single Version 3:20 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
2. Summertime And I’m Feeling Mellow Original Album Version 4.04 M.F.S.B.
3. Let Life Flow Original Album Version 4:29 The O'Jays
4. If You Wanna Go Back Original Album Version 3:20 Jean Carn
5. It's Hard Not To Like You Original Album Version 3:59 Archie Bell & The Drells
6. Party Time Man Original Album Version 5:13 The Futures
7. Everyone's A Star Original Album Version 5:41 The Intruders
8. Your Love Is Good Original Album Version 2:52 Bunny Sigler
9. The Whole Town's Talking Original Album Version 4:44 Billy Paul
10. So Glad I’m The One Original Album Version 3:15 Instant Funk
11. Keep On Lovin' You Original Album Version 3:40 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
12. Yes You Need Love Original Album Version 3:32 Anthony White
13. It Ain't Reggae [[But It’s Funky) Original Album Version 3:44 Instant Funk
14. [[You're The One) Someone Special Original Album Version 4.16 The Futures
15. Keep Smilin' Original Album Version 5:55 Bunny Sigler
16. I'm In Love Once Again Original Album Version 5.53 Jean Carn
17. The Whole Town's Laughing At Me Original Album Version 4:27 Teddy Pendergrass
18. Sooner Or Later Original Album Version 5.35 Billy Paul

Running Time CD4: 78.33


Con't on next post.......

[Ian Dewhirst]

CD 5

1. Let’s Make A Baby Original Album Version 3:48 Billy Paul
2. Now That We Found Love Original Single Version 3.07 The O'Jays
3. Blues Away Original Album Version 3.12 The Jacksons
4. I Believe In Love Original Album Version 3.56 Dee Dee Sharp Gamble
5. Easy, Easy, Got To Take It Easy Original Album Version 4.53 Teddy Pendergrass
6. I Bet She Won't Love You Like I Do Original Album Version 3.16 Jean Carn
7. Use To Be My Girl Original Single Version 3.21 The O'Jays
8. Strength Of One Man Original Album Version 3.54 The Jacksons
9. See You When I Git There Original Single Version 3.07 Lou Rawls
10. Only You Original Album Version 5.05 Teddy Pendergrass
11. Intro/My Love Don't Come Easy Original Album Version 5.07 Jean Carn
12. Come On And Dance Dance Dance Original Album Version 5.28 Bunny Sigler
13. This Feeling Is Killing Me Original Album Version 3.30 The Jones Girls
14. Let ‘Em In Original Single Version 3.32 Billy Paul
15. Picture Us Original Album Version 2.34 Bunny Sigler
16. Life Goes On Original Album Version 4.29 The Jones Girls
17. Lady Love Original Album Version 4.00 Lou Rawls
18. Where Will You Go When The Party's Over? Original Album Version 4.07 Archie Bell & The Drells

Running Time CD5: 71.02


CD 6

1. The More I Get, The More I Want Original Album Version 4.27 Teddy Pendergrass
2. Stop And Think It Over Original Album Version 4.24 Anthony White
3. Living Together Original Album Version 4.26 The Jacksons
4. [[No, No) You Can't Come Back Now Original Album Version 2.28 Jean Carn
5. You Can't Hide From Yourself Original Album Version 4.06 Teddy Pendergrass
6. [[I'm Just Thinking About) Cooling Out Original Single Version 3.35 Jerry Butler
7. Only The Strong Survive Original Single Version 3:25 Billy Paul
8. Use Ta Be My Guy Original Album Version 5.13 M.F.S.B.
9. I Don't Love You Anymore Original Album Version 3.59 Teddy Pendergrass
10. To Prove I Love You Original Album Version 4.11 The O’Jays
11. Things Are Gonna Get Better Original Album Version 2.55 Bunny Sigler
12. Not The Staying Kind Original Album Version 3.52 Lou Rawls
13. Holdin' On Original Album Version 4.52 Dexter Wansel
14. Don't Let Love Get You Down Original Album Version 4.20 Archie Bell & The Drells
15. Let's Clean Up The Ghetto Original Album Version 4.51 The Philadelphia All Stars
16. You’re Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else Original Album Version 4.30 The Jones Girls
17. What’s The Matter With The World? Original Album Version 5.56 Lou Rawls
18. When Somebody Loves You Back Original Album Version 4.58 Teddy Pendergrass

Running Time CD6: 78.57


CD 7

1. Life On Mars Original Album Version 5.51 Dexter Wansel
2. Sonceré [[The Infinite Hour Glass) Original Album Version 6.20 Michael Pedicin Jr.
3. Tight Money Original Album Version 4.48 Leon Huff
4. Compared To What Original Album Version 5.20 Billy Paul
5. For The Love of Money Original Album Version 4.12 Thad Jones & Mel Lewis
6. Something For Nothing Original Album Version 2.58 M.F.S.B.
7. Lover Man [[Oh Where Can You Be) Original Album Version 4.06 Patti LaBelle
8. Manhattan Skyline Original Album Version 4.47 M.F.S.B.
9. In Good Faith Original Album Version 5.12 Norman Harris
10. Reality Original Album Version 5.36 Monk Montgomery
11. Forever With You Original Album Version 4.18 Phyllis Hyman
12. My Favourite Person Original Album Version 4.14 The Rojas
13. I Ain't Jivin’, I'm Jammin’ Original Album Version 5.55 Leon Huff
14. Mysteries of the World Original Album Version 5.28 M.F.S.B.
15. Theme from The Planets Original Album Version 4.52 Dexter Wansel
16. Malorie Original Album Version 3.46 Billy Paul

Running Time CD7: 78.16


CD 8

1. Come Go With Me Original Album Version 5.48 Teddy Pendergrass
2. Don't Let It Go To Your Head Original Album Version 4.51 Jean Carn
3. Mine All Mine Original Album Version 4.31 The Stylistics
4. I'm In Love Again Original Album Version 5.52 Patti LaBelle
5. Brandy Original Album Version 4.13 The O'Jays
6. The Sweetest Pain Original Album Version 5.42 Dexter Wansel
7. Ain't No Time Fa Nothing Original Album Version 5.29 The Futures
8. When I’m Gone Original Album Version 4.48 The Jones Girls
9. Turn Off The Lights Original Album Version 5.54 Teddy Pendergrass
10. I Can’t Stop [[Turning You On) Original Album Version 3.56 Silk
11. I've Been Pushed Aside Original Album Version 5.11 McFadden & Whitehead
12. We Got Some Catchin' Up To Do Original Album Version 5.02 Jean Carn
13. Maybe It's Love This Time Original Album Version 4.09 The Stylistics
14. Who Can I Run To Original 12” Extended Mix 4.43 The Jones Girls
15. Close The Door Original Album Version 3.33 Teddy Pendergrass
16. Children Of The Night Original Album Version 5.12 The Jones Girls

Running Time CD8: 79.22

CD 9

1. Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now Original Album Version 7.01 McFadden & Whitehead
2. Was That All It Was Original 12” Mix 6.28 Jean Carn
3. Bring The Family Back Original Album Version 5.00 Billy Paul
4. Nights Over Egypt Original Album Version 4.40 The Jones Girls
5. Put Our Heads Together Original Album Version 5.41 The O'Jays
6. Keep It Comin' Original Album Version 4.48 The Jones Girls
7. I Heard It In A Love Song Original Album Version 5.11 McFadden & Whitehead
8. The Spirit's In It Original Album Version 5.49 Patti LaBelle
9. Strut Your Funky Stuff Original Single Version 3.37 Frantique
10. What's Your Name Original Album Version 4.53 The Stylistics
11. Dance Turned Into Romance Original Album Version 4.28 The Jones Girls
12. Strategy Original Album Version 6.55 Archie Bell & The Drells
13. I Love You Anyway Original Album Version 4.30 Dee Dee Sharp Gamble
14. Betcha Lucky Star Original Album Version 4.51 Jean Carn
15. Let Me Be Good To You Original Album Version 5.28 Lou Rawls

Running Time CD9: 79.48

CD 10

1. Love You Direct Original Album Version 3.51 The O'Jays
2. Ain't You Had Enough Love Original Album Version 4.13 Phyllis Hyman
3. Somebody's Gotta Move Original Album Version 5.12 The Dells
4. Do You Get Enough Love Original Album Version 4.36 Shirley Jones
5. First Time Together Original Album Version 4.03 Phyllis Hyman
6. I Can't Forget You Original Album Version 4.30 Patti LaBelle
7. Hurry Up This Way Again Original Album Version 5.53 The Stylistics
8. Easy Money Original Album Version 4.03 Dee Dee Sharp Gamble
9. Summer Fling Original Album Version 4.49 The O'Jays
10. This Too Shall Pass Original Album Version 5.27 Phyllis Hyman
11. Baby Don't Go Away Mad Original Album Version 4.38 The Dells
12. She Knew About Me Original Album Version 4.35 Shirley Jones
13. If Only You Knew Original Album Version 4.44 Patti LaBelle
14. Extraordinary Girl Original Single Version 5.19 The O'Jays
15. Heaven Only Knows Original Album Version 4.07 Teddy Pendergrass
16. Baby Don't Go, Yet Original Single Version 5.23 The Jones Girls

Running Time CD10: 75.54

Amazon Link:

http://www.amazon.co...&pf_rd_i=229816

HMV Link:

http://hmv.com/hmvwe...ubmitSearch.y=0

Not a bad year for Philly ay?

Ian D

[theboyfromxtown]

Ian

I've already ordered it but what worries me about these HUGE collections is that it takes up a lot of room in the storage cupboard and there's only so much space in an apartment/flat! It looks like that problem has been thought of this time. So please pass on my thanks.

[tamla617]

41 pounds and shrapnel,great price.
i'd prefer them to be in order of release.the jacksons are on disc one,probably to grab the eye.

did the jacksons sign to PI?i always thought it was epic[[part of cbs).it was epic over here.but so were the intruders,billy paul, but i thought that was to get 'round radio air play rules

[Ian Dewhirst]

The compilation was deliberately not done chronologically as Ralph had his own views on how he wanted to sequence which is fair enough. And even with over twelve and a half hours of music it still wasn't enough LOL.....

The Jacksons were included as the Philly logo was on the UK release of "Show You The Way To Go" and I think the masters are still held @ PIR. Oh and it was a No.1 hit in the UK so we'd have been lynched if we'd have left it off! The Jacksons were a major Epic signing and the thinking was that they didn't want to appear to have 'sold out' Motown for the big New York corporation so bringing in Philly International to produce the group kept their credentials intact, or so the story goes. Wasn't a bad decision at all in my opinion as they'd been floundering for a couple of years @ Motown by that point. Plus they'd also seen the success that the Spinners were having in Philly, so I guess that cemented the decision....

And yes, that Box Set has been designed so that the contents are secure and everything won't fall out after a couple of years. Nice and tasteful too. If you're not going to frame it then it should tuck away somewhere quite nicely!

Ian D

[Ian Dewhirst]

I just did a 20 minute reply and the site froze and I've lost everything ho hum. I don't what's happening but the site keeps 'locking' for me. Ani ideas anyone? It's only on here so I think my browser's fine...

Will come back to reply later...

Ian D

[marv2]

That is really goodlooking, slick packaging! The track list is formidable, hehehehehehe! This is one to buy and keep. Thanks

[jack020]

Ian: I already posted the tracklisting, see here:

http://soulfuldetroit.com/showthread...Set-%2810CD%29

[jaybs]

Ian

I've already ordered it but what worries me about these HUGE collections is that it takes up a lot of room in the storage cupboard and there's only so much space in an apartment/flat! It looks like that problem has been thought of this time. So please pass on my thanks.

Really looking forward to this set John! agree with you about space! my collection has about taken up every room now in the apartment, the problem is I am same with books! and DVD's, not sure why the latter as I only ever had around 10 movies on VHS, but with DVD's I must have over 2,000 many sent from friends in the US before release here.

Managed to get my box set on line for £39.95 inc postage of course!

[jack020]

Managed to get my box set on line for £39.95 inc postage of course!

More info please!

[jaybs]

Managed to get my box set on line for £39.95 inc postage of course!

More info please!

I've ordered my copy from Base, but as I was looking for the website link I noticed they have put it up by £10! but looking at my account it is still showing for the price I ordered it at!

So the best price now seems to be Amazon UK at £41.37 postage free

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Philadelphia...5202144&sr=8-1

[marv2]

Kenny Gamble was on the radio here in New York [[WRQN KISS-FM) again this past Sunday this time remembering Dick Clark. He has yet to mention anything about this collection here.

[Ian Dewhirst]

Kenny Gamble was on the radio here in New York [[WRQN KISS-FM) again this past Sunday this time remembering Dick Clark. He has yet to mention anything about this collection here.

Well Kenny's a busy guy and I think he enjoys being interviewed - he had a ball in the UK when he came over last November and, in fact, I'll be editing a filmed interview which Richard Searling and Ralph Tee conducted at the time.
I can tell you that both he, Leon and Phil Asbury from PIR were all going through the booklet with a toothcomb last week....

Also don't forget that "Philadelphia International: The 40th Anniversary Box Set" is technically only available in Europe [[through Demon) as PIR is with other companies in other territories. I'm not sure if it's that easy to do huge box sets in the U.S. because of the different royalty structure - apparently a 175 track package would be financially unviable in the U.S. so I've been told.

So the moral is: if you can snag it for £40 and change with delivery, than what's to think about?

Bargain of the century if you ask me!

Ian D

[tamla617]

ian dewhurst
what,if any,is the difference between the black cd set and the "PI green" cd set?

[wonder_woman]

what a great collection of tunes and just in time for my birthday, thanks Ian certainly is a bargain, mines on order.

[Ian Dewhirst]

ian dewhurst
what,if any,is the difference between the black cd set and the "PI green" cd set?

One's an early mock-up picture before it was completely designed. There's pressure from sales to get stuff up on Amazon quickly, so often we have to go with an early pic. Nuts but true......

Ian D

[Ian Dewhirst]

what a great collection of tunes and just in time for my birthday, thanks Ian certainly is a bargain, mines on order.

We got tipped your birthday was coming up, so we killed ourselves to hit 21/5/12. Wasn't easy Wonder Woman but it was worth it!


Ian D

[jaybs]

One's an early mock-up picture before it was completely designed. There's pressure from sales to get stuff up on Amazon quickly, so often we have to go with an early pic. Nuts but true......

Ian D

Waiting with great patience! virtually by the letterbox counting the days down!! LOL

[manny]

Hi and regards to all, SDF brothas and sisthas, :-)

Firsty of all congratulations to PIR for the anniversary and for everybody involved and to ourselves as we can to enjoy some treasures. But, friends, really I'm feel a little hungry for two reasons:

1) - Every PIR compilation contains almost between 50 - 75 % of stuff so much over-exposed, so much previously known and so much previously edited and reedited [["Me & Mrs. Jones", "TSOP", "Love I Lost", "Love Train",...). This, IMHO, is something without excuse as have had recently various CD's box published as "G & H and The Story Of Brotherly Love" or "Love Train" apart from hundreds of "general soul music" compilations with these well-known tunes. That's very sad for the Philly soul aficionados, when we knows there is so much rare material unissued on CD [[Lenny Pakula PIR single, Talk Of The Town and Elliot Hoffman TSOP 45's,...) and also so much never realised stuff [[Dennis Edward's LP, Love Committtee and Ron Tyson solo stuff, Anthony White and Johnny William's unrealised stuff). We deserves the same "respect" than the motown or stax aficionados [[and i'm a PIR - Atlantic - Hi - Motown - Stax - Chi sound fan in this order).

2) - I have seen another different track-list for this 10 CD box where the Vol. 3 is totally different, including some tracks by Derek & Cyndi [[different from "You Bring Out The Best In Me"), 2 or 3 different tracks by Kaleidoscope, "Another World" by Elliot Hoffman... WHAT IS THE DEFINITIVE TRACK LIST?

This track-list was published here:

http://www.spincds.com/blog/2012/02/...-box-set-10cd/

but don't works at the present moments [[???)

I hope that the box dedicated to the "philly Roots" includes stuff of the Neptune, Gambleand /or North Bay labels. And also, during the present year 2012, we can see, some other compilations as "TSOP / Golden Fleece / Thunder / Tommy singles" or some rare LP's as the one by Don Covay or the gospel concerts at the college on two TSOP albums... Simply the same that Stax or Motown have done!

Finally, I understand that kenny Gamble got more interest in other things, the problems with the licenses, etc. AND I CAN'T WAIT FOR ORDER MY COPY OF THIS BOX despite those facts, as there are a full illustrated and interesting booklet and some tracks that i only have on vynil [[the others, around 75%, hi have on vynil, cassette and cd!).

Many thanks to Ian and everybody involved and long live to the real music, the real soul and the Philly Soul!!

[mr_june]

Hi Manny. Good points made in your post. I Haven't seen you here in quite some time but glad to see you are still around.

I'm going to get my dear wife to get this set for my birthday. I guess we'll have to wait for the century mark to get the Intruders material that has never been released on CD not to mention a box set. Does Sony have rights to that? If so they have the wrong people mining the vault.

[manny]

Hi, dear friend mr_june! [[the most emotive archie bell & drells and the intruders LOVER!)

The glad feeling is reciprocal. I think when finally [[the new generation of) PIR responsibles re-issues those treasures [[the year 2100...?), nobody of us are alive... new generations who don't have "lived" the original days, the 70's, the vynils... I only wish these new generations have the taste, the musical education and sense to appreciate it. If hi haved the money for the cryogenization [[like Walt Disney!) for were here! :-)

Cheers

[tamla617]

neptune.....some early great stuff from bunny sigler, the o'jays and billy paul

[JimBagley]

As a man who was born in Philadelphia and was raised in the Philadelphia area and whose 50th birthday is fast approaching this summer, please forgive me for feeling that the folks behind this box set are working hard to get it out before MY birthday.

[Kamasu_Jr]

Ian

I've already ordered it but what worries me about these HUGE collections is that it takes up a lot of room in the storage cupboard and there's only so much space in an apartment/flat! It looks like that problem has been thought of this time. So please pass on my thanks.

I agree. I worry about discs that skip, etc. John, how many discs and vinyl do you have? Did you buy that Dusty Box, Goin Back?

[Ian Dewhirst]

Hi All,

Not much time to answer in detail, but rest assured we are hoping to get to the unissued stuff as soon as circumstances allow. There are some legal, financial and administration issues to deal and everyone should bear in mind that it's expensive to retreive masters, transport them, bake them and cover the necessary studio time to get the finished articles right - many of the unreleased tracks are un-mixed and some are quite obviously demos so this will not be a cheap exercise. So we need to get a few more ducks in place which we're hoping to now that the Re-Edits, Moulton Remixes and Box Set packages are done.

We have been pushing for this for a while so hopefully we've laid the right foundations to proceed! I'll keep everyone informed.

I think a key part of the whole equation is the incredible interest that's surrounded the above projects, so hopefully the ball is now well and truly rolling! Fingers crossed.

Ian D

[Ian Dewhirst]

neptune.....some early great stuff from bunny sigler, the o'jays and billy paul

Agreed. Watch out for "Philadelphia International: The Roots" later this year!

Ian D

[tsull1]

Next two purchases, the Tom Moulton Philly re-mixes and this tremendous box set. Can't believe I haven't picked up the Moulton classic yet -- sorry Tom! Should be a great time listening to all these classics! Thanks for the info and the links.

[theboyfromxtown]

I agree. I worry about discs that skip, etc. John, how many discs and vinyl do you have? Did you buy that Dusty Box, Goin Back?

Yes absolutely AND the Beach Boys set AND Girl Groups Sounds from Rhino AND Motortown Revue Live AND Marvin Gaye WGO special edition AND.......

No wonder I am running out of room here!

Before anyone orders the PIR set on Amazon.com, they ought to do an exchange comparison with amazon.uk.

[jaybs]

Agreed. Watch out for "Philadelphia International: The Roots" later this year!

Ian D

Now You are really Tempting us Ian! Keep the Good Work up "The Message is in The Music"

[Amithesameboy]

Firstly, I should say that I am greatly looking forward to this set and will definitely buy it. PIR was one of the greatest record labels that ever existed, and it is superb to see it receiving this type of lavish attention. I also do understand that it has been very difficult to get messrs Gamble and Huff on-board with such a project, so congratulations to everyone involved.

However, I must express two areas of disappointment :

1. The " revised " track listing of CD 3 is, to me anyway, much less interesting than the " original " listing, I saw posted recently - ie no Elliott Hoffman, Talk of the Town, etc, replaced by tracks I already have.

2. I personally think PIR's best years, both artistically and commercially, were over by 1977, and so there is too much emphasis on the post - 1977 timeframe. Not to say that there aren' t plenty of great tracks in the later period, but I would have liked to see more of the early singles.

Anyway, these are personal preferences and I still wish this excellent project the greatest success.

[soulster]

Well, i'm happy! I WILL buy this set! I am very happy that the ORIGINAL mixes and single versions are included here.

[soulster]

I'm amazed that this set isn't of more interest to this forum.

[Ian Dewhirst]

Finished copies came up today and I'm happy to say that it's absolutely beautiful! I can't even bring myself to open mine LOL.

That Amazon price is ridiculously tempting I have to say. I reckon this level of package would normally be in the £60-£70 level!

Amazon Link:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...pf_rd_i=229816

12 days to release!

Ian D

[JimBagley]

Looking forward to receiving my copy of the box set soon, Ian.

Can you please post the lineup for the Roots set as soon as it becomes available?

Thanks,

Jim

[manny]

As I said before, despite the fact, the 75% of the content of this box set I have on CD and vynil [[and the other 25% "only" on vynil), I can't wait for receive my copy. I think my case may be the case of many Philly Soul fans. We "deserves", as the "Motown fans" to see some month on this year [[aaaaaargghhh...!!!), some realizes like these:
- A complete CD box with PIR singles [[including rarities like Ronnie "The Hawk" James; Lenny Pakula; Gideon Smith;...)
- A complete CD box with the TSOP, Golden Fleece, North Bay; Thunder; Tommy; 70's Gamble label; G & H; Peace Intl. singles [[including Bobby Taylor; Michael Walker, Marbleheart, Louise Williams, Vibrations, Talk Of The Town, Ted Wortham & Co., Brockington Singers, Executive Suite, Honey & The Bees,...)
- A complete CD box with the 60's singles stuff until 1970 year [[60's Gamble label plus Neptune and Huff - Puff, including The Landslides, Oliver Bush, New Direction, Indigos, Vibrations, Linda Jones, Bobby Marchan, Cruisers, Jaggerz, Bob Crewe,...)
- A complete CD with previously unissued stuff that is worth to issue [[not only for to be "rare" but for his intrinsically value), as many Ron Tyson solo and Love Committee, Dennis Edwards,... PIR and subsidiaries stuff).
- A complete CD with previously unrealized stuff in the "outside productions" field [[recorded at Sigma), as BB King, Fania All-Stars, Spinners, Philipe Wynne solo, Lola Falana, Margie Joseph,...
- The reedition in Cd of some jazzy and rare groove stuff as Monk Montgomery "Reality" or "The Bicentennial Poet" by Jean Claude T albums

That is too much... but to to dream is free...

Cheers to all [[and kisses for the ladies)

[soulster]

My only concern is that the absolute correct single versions were used. What I am also wondering is, in the case of Billy Paul's "Me & Mrs. Jones", did they use the album length, or did they use an edited version. As it turns out, there were two versions of the 45, one with the album version, and one that had an edited version of the song. I grew up with the full version 45.

The appeal of this box to me is that all of the singles will be in one place, and sound great. I also hope they didn't compress or hard-limit the thing.

[jaybs]

What an Amazing Box Set! such quality packaging [[did take me a while to work out how to take the top off LOL) I was brought up on Motown as my brother was 11 years older than me, but even though I must have more Motown CD's of course than Philadelphia International it was my real era, I jut love the string arrangements, I always feel I am in heaven listening to the strings!

Working my way through the CD's a few tracks I never had on CD, but 10 CD's does take time!

One small problem as I started to add the CD's to my iPod sadly from CD6 onwards the CD's are not recognized at all for tracks etc, quite a job adding them and looking at the box set listing but well worth it!

[soulster]

...Philadelphia International it was my real era, I jut love the string arrangements, I always feel I am in heaven listening to the strings!

I always concentrated on the drums. PIR was more my era too, even though I was born in the early 60s.

[Ian Dewhirst]

No.1 on Amazon's Hot New Releases In Compilation Chart......

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/new-relea...17RF32DKTEE3ZA

In fact we're firing up a few charts.......

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Philadelphia...zg_bs_694308_1

Wow. We've seen a phenomenal pre-sale on this - it's actually pre-selling at a faster rate than a normal Harmless goodie, which is brilliant news. If all those UK sales convert, then we'll be looking at being the first 10 CD Box Set to hit the Top 40 Compilation Chart which will be a gas!

In fact it looks like we'll need to repress by this Friday if it carries on at the same rate. Just nuts. If you want the first edition order quickly!

Ian D

[jaybs]

I always concentrated on the drums. PIR was more my era too, even though I was born in the early 60s.

Yes agree about the drums! only managed to see Earl Young live twice but he blew my mind!

The reason I could not open the box was an adhesive sticker on the back which covered the top which pulls off, silly me did not realise this and was trying to open the top like a flip box?

Just got two more CD's 9 and 10 not to type in the artists and songs on iTunes for my iPod, not started on the book yet.

[Ian Dewhirst]

Yes agree about the drums! only managed to see Earl Young live twice but he blew my mind!

The reason I could not open the box was an adhesive sticker on the back which covered the top which pulls off, silly me did not realise this and was trying to open the top like a flip box?

Just got two more CD's 9 and 10 not to type in the artists and songs on iTunes for my iPod, not started on the book yet.

Wow. You got that quick. You must have been one of the lucky ones to get the PR/Radio mailout.

Yep, I had exactly the same problem with the adhesive info sheet on the back [[as did Ralph Tee). It took me about 5 minutes to figure it out LOL.....

Ian D

[jaybs]

Yep, I had exactly the same problem with the adhesive info sheet on the back [[as did Ralph Tee). It took me about 5 minutes to figure it out LOL.....

Ian D

Wow! Thanks!! now I do not feel the fool I did when opening the box! LOL! all CD's now in iPod and track and artist names added on CD 6 to 10! This Box Set is a Complete Treasure BIG THANKS!

[manny]

I received this "aristocratic" well designed box this same morning. I only have heard the CD's 3 an 10 by now [[the ones where are concentrated the majority of tracks that I don't have previously and some never heard before, as the last by Jones Girls or the one by The Ethics). Very good job by Philly Dave on the discography... I'm at these moments finishing to read the book.

Only "problem" by now is the black glossy cromolux kind of paper where the finger thumbs stays! [[I'll try to clean it...).

A little typo error I have seen is on the black & white pics of the background of the inner of the box, the one by "SHIRLEY BROWN" [[I think, obviously, is the beautiful Shirley Jones, jejeje... the graphic designer should be a Stax fan more than PIR...).

A great salute and another great THANK to Ian, Ralph and everybody envolved.

[soulster]

Ian,

on this forum, people are not accustomed to talking about technical details, but I am, and am very interested. What can you tell us about the tapes, the mastering, the sources, converters, and who did what?

[soulster]

Bumpity-bump!

[candykamaine]

41 pounds and shrapnel,great price.
i'd prefer them to be in order of release.the jacksons are on disc one,probably to grab the eye.

did the jacksons sign to PI?i always thought it was epic[[part of cbs).it was epic over here.but so were the intruders,billy paul, but i thought that was to get 'round radio air play rules

Yes, thier two albums "The Jacksons" and "Goin Places" are both PIR.

[soulster]

Yes, thier two albums "The Jacksons" and "Goin Places" are both PIR.

They were both PIR and Epic. It was one of the rare times two logos appeared on a label.

[Hotspurman]

I got this yesterday as a belated Easter present [[my wife and daughter ordered it beforehand but obviously the date went back) and loaded it up to my ipod. I’ve been playing it all day – currently up to track number 71 of 175 – and can fully understand why Ralph wanted to do a varied running order rather than a chronological order. There has not been one moment where I’ve thought ‘Let’s try something or somebody else’, a feeling I sometimes get with a lot of music, including Motown. This just flows along, with gems being liberally sprinkled all the way through.

I also understand why a set of this kind may be difficult to get out in the US – if you’ve followed my comments on Hallmark’s Motown reissues, you’ll know that the MCPS royalty [[the money that gets paid to the composers of all these great songs) is pegged at 8.5%, irrespective of how many tracks there are. In the US, the agency that collects [[Harry Fox) charges by the track, so a 175 track package is astronomical. I seem to recall that Universal used their considerable clout to get a reduction in parts of Europe and may well have done so for the US – TCMS Volume 5, for example, has 166 tracks – but it surely would make greater sense for Harry Fox to peg their royalty to the dealer price; I’m sure there would be more releases if they did.

[kenneth]

I got this yesterday as a belated Easter present [[my wife and daughter ordered it beforehand but obviously the date went back) and loaded it up to my ipod. I’ve been playing it all day – currently up to track number 71 of 175 – and can fully understand why Ralph wanted to do a varied running order rather than a chronological order. There has not been one moment where I’ve thought ‘Let’s try something or somebody else’, a feeling I sometimes get with a lot of music, including Motown. This just flows along, with gems being liberally sprinkled all the way through.

I also understand why a set of this kind may be difficult to get out in the US – if you’ve followed my comments on Hallmark’s Motown reissues, you’ll know that the MCPS royalty [[the money that gets paid to the composers of all these great songs) is pegged at 8.5%, irrespective of how many tracks there are. In the US, the agency that collects [[Harry Fox) charges by the track, so a 175 track package is astronomical. I seem to recall that Universal used their considerable clout to get a reduction in parts of Europe and may well have done so for the US – TCMS Volume 5, for example, has 166 tracks – but it surely would make greater sense for Harry Fox to peg their royalty to the dealer price; I’m sure there would be more releases if they did.

It is available from Amazon US, for about $100. Not a bad price considering how much material is on this set. I didn't know about it until just browsing here the other day as I spend more time on the Motown forum. Will have to compare to the UK price, but I plan to buy this great set. Hard to believe on Amazon US, no reviews yet though, and worse still, no track listing which is likely making it difficult for anyone to buy it! The annotators or producers should remedy that to make sure the track listing is included. It's a lot of money for someone to spend sight unseen.

[Hotspurman]

I’m not sure, but I think the fact that Harmless and Demon do not have the rights for the repertoire in the US precludes them from submitting sales information and the like directly to Amazon in the US.

Obviously, you can find all of the information on the tracks and reviews on the UK site:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Philadelphia...7787692&sr=8-1

$100 seems a bit high, but it is certainly worth it....