Gamble and Huff

USA, 1964–now

Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff — the songwriting and production duo behind Philadelphia International Records and 'The Sound of Philadelphia'. Modelling their operation on Motown, their lush, string-swept soul (the O'Jays, Harold Melvin, MFSB) became a direct bridge from soul into disco.

MusicRoots documents 1 artist who influenced Gamble and Huff and 2 artists Gamble and Huff influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Gamble and Huff?

• The Temptations — Gamble and Huff explicitly modelled Philadelphia International — its house band, staff writers and slick assembly-line productions — on Motown and its flagship groups like the Temptations.

Which artists did Gamble and Huff influence?

• MFSB — MFSB were the studio orchestra assembled at Gamble and Huff's Sigma Sound, giving 'The Sound of Philadelphia' its lush instrumental voice.
• The O'Jays — The O'Jays became the flagship vocal group of Gamble and Huff's Philadelphia International, who wrote and produced their run of soul-into-disco hits.