Music is so much more than just entertainment. Without it, the world would be full of quiet void. Philadelphia is known for its music from amazing Black musicians who worked tirelessly to get their voices heard. Artists like Marian Anderson, Patti LaBelle, and Chubby Checker cleared the way for Black musicians just like them to be recognized. This week, we’d like to bring recognition to Philly’s black up-and-coming musicians. Here are some of the best musicians in Philadelphia who have taken the path just like musicians had before them.
Elle Gyandoh
Soul singing, songwriter, performer Elle Gyandoh is a one-of-a-kind artist. Gyandoh has a voice truly like no other being able to hit high and low ranges with absolute ease. Wanting to share her songs, Gyandhoh released her first single, Stolen, in 2015, which lead to an album entitled Through the Looking Glass. Gyandhoh performs at many local spots in Philly like SOUTH, a black-owned jazz kitchen. Elle Gyandoh is paving the way for soul music to continue to strive. Follow her on Instagram to see where she will be performing next!
The Funkitorium
This band of six brothers is striving to bring back funk music to the world! The Funkitorium is one of the most unique funk bands to be created out of Philly. Their music style is a mix of old-school funk with a modern twist of hip-hop, sounding like no other bands out there. The band has played all over the city and even won the PHL Live’s Summer Stage in 2019 for their high-energy performances. Get the chance to watch them live at their next show at The Music Hall at World Cafe Live and help bring back funk music to Philly!
Kur
Philadelphia-born rapper, Kur, is rising in fame with his unique approach to his music. Kur’s songs are jammed-packed with hardcore truth and grit of street stories. The truth in his music came from his rough upbringing and street life in uptown Philly. Kur began writing his music in high school, and by the time he was graduating, he was debuting his mixtape Straight from the Kur. His career has skyrocketed since then and now has many of his albums and singles being streamed on top platforms like Spotify.
Janel
Singer/songwriter Janel is only 23, but her age doesn’t stop her from reaching her goals! Gaining a degree in Music Business Entrepreneurship Technology (MBET) from Philadelphia’s own University of the Arts, Janel is an artist to look out for. Janel’s music is filled with soulful lyrics and to the core hitting beats. She released her first single, Plus One, in 2020 and was a major success for her for recognition and has now released her first EP. Follow her on Instagram to stay up-to-date with her music and to see where she’s performing next in Philly!
The city of Philadelphia is filled with music every day. Whether it’s the melody of cars rushing down Broad Street or the saxophonist playing in the middle of Center City, waiting for his break into fame. The city never falls short in rhythm.
Throughout the month of February, Philly PR Girl will be your guide to celebrating Black History Month! Each week we will be highlighting local and talented Philly Black individuals on our blog and social, so make sure to follow us to stay up-to-date!
