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City Cast Philly

Siani Colón

While “Gonna Fly Now” from “Rocky” and "Yo Home to Bel-Air" from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” are songs that are synonymous with Philadelphia, the sound of Philly is much more than just these two tracks.

Did you know that “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” was written by a Philadelphian? How about the fact that Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the “Godmother of Rock 'n’ Roll,” lived in North Philly?

“The Philadelphia Music Book: Sounds of a City” shines a light on Philly’s deep musical history and its contributions to the world of sound. The 400-page book is the brainchild of Larry Magid, legendary local producer, concert promoter, and co-founder of the Electric Factory. With research from 13 writers, it’s chock-full of stories about everyone from the musicians and songwriters to the business leaders and disc jockeys who make up the city's musical legacy.

“It's important for as many Philadelphians [as possible] to understand what has come out of this city and what the city offers,” Magid said. “...it's a book of hope as well as a book of expression, where we show that a lot of the great musicians that have come out of this city came from meager backgrounds.”

The book transports the reader through time, flashing back to the early years of colonial Philadelphia through the 19th century, before catching up to the modern day. One of these early contributors to the burgeoning American music scene was Benjamin Carr, known as the “Father of Philadelphia Music” and regarded as one of the best-known songwriters from America's early years.

“I knew a bit about the classical world, but not nearly enough,” Magid said. “The amazing amount of jazz musicians that have had national and international impact that have come from here, lived here…I can't imagine many cities in the world having as many great jazz musicians as [those] that have come from Philadelphia."

These musical artists include Butch Ballard, a local jazz legend from Frankford who engaged in civic activism when he wasn't performing; Dizzy Gillespie, a trumpet player who co-developed the genre known as bebop; and Nina Simone, whose 

controversial rejection from the Curtis Institute

 led her down a path that may have been the jumping-off point for her successful career.

It's clear to Magid that Philadelphia’s musical legacy is marked by breaking new ground, which is why he isn’t worried about Philly’s place in the ever-evolving music scene.

“We're always going to have a voice in popular music, whatever form that takes,” Magid said. “If jazz makes a comeback, we're right there. Classical and opera as well, because we have these great institutions like the Philadelphia Orchestra and Opera Philadelphia. I think it's unlimited who we're going to give to the world.”

To learn more about Philly’s music history, you can purchase 

“The Philadelphia Music Book: Sounds of a City”

. If you want to hear from Magid directly, he's speaking at an 

A new book that collects the history of hundreds of songwriters, singers, instrumentalists, and producers is a portrait of Philadelphia’s contributions to the arts.

“The Philadelphia Music Book” Preserves Philly’s Musical History

The Philadelphians Who Shaped America’s Music Scene

People, places, and scenes from Philadelphia's past.

Philly History

Back in 2007, Michael Semancik had no idea that queer choruses existed. But a concert that he saw performed by the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus changed everything. And nearly two decades later he’s leading the nearly 200-member organization as it entertains audiences in a range of genres.

I talked with Semancik to learn more about his role as the artistic director and conductor for the chorus, its musical legacy in Philadelphia, and what’s in store for 2026.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

This is one of the oldest [gay choruses] in the country. What makes Philly stand out?

, they're a [50-year-old] feminist choir. They were the first queer choir to exist in the United States…The Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus is in our 44th season. These choirs came out of the need for [coming] out of hiding [during] the AIDS epidemic, giving people a place to feel welcome and loved at a time when the world did not love us and did not appreciate and understand us.

“We are selling out concerts and we are traveling the world, and we're sharing our messages with new people — gay men and trans people and lesbians and bisexual and straight people. It is just a huge melting pot of people that just love each other and want to sing. And it's just such a very cool and unique thing that started right here in Philadelphia.”

How can you get involved? And who are the types of people who are involved?

“We audition in August and then again in December. And there's just a simple vocal audition. We get to ask you how you heard about [the chorus], why are you choosing us, what are you looking for. Then you get chosen from that.

“You do not have to be trained. There is a wide range of members … people [who] are just starting their singing. They've been singing in the shower and in their cars, and they can match pitches and sing … and then I have [music] professors sitting in my ensemble as well that give up their time teaching because they just love the community.

“It’s always a cool thing when you are sitting next to a college professor of music on one side of you, a pediatrician on one side of you, a published writer in front of you, and lawyers next to you. It is such a melting pot of people that just come together because of their love for each other and love for music.”

Note: The Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, so anyone is welcome to audition and join.

What can we expect during this 44th season, especially as it overlaps with the semiquincentennial celebrations throughout next year?

, which are our biggest concerts and shows. It's a mix of traditional holiday carols to lots of fun, ridiculous things. People can forget about what's going on in their lives.

“Our March show is titled ‘Out of Darkness, We Sing.' [It’s] a powerful concert by the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus that shines a light on injustice and celebrates the strength of communities that refuse to be silenced. Anchored by Joel Thompson's “The Seven Last Words of the Unarmed,” this program confronts racial violence, discrimination, and depression in all forms while lifting up hope, unity, and resilience through song in a time of division. We come together to remember, to resist, and to rise out of darkness, we sing.

“We are fighting for social justice. Gay marriage was 

possibly gonna be overturned and talked about again

 in the Supreme Court. Through the AIDS epidemic, we are as an organization, we have fought for everything. And that flight has not stopped. Thinking about what Philadelphia has been through, I'm choosing this concept, which is very different from anything we've ever done. There’s gonna be a question-answer session after the concert with some community leaders. I'm diversifying what we are as an organization. So we're putting on our concerts that are fun, but we're also getting in the community. We're also gonna talk about some community issues and what we can do as citizens to help and what we can do to be better Philadelphians.

“In May, for our 250th anniversary, we're doing a British Invasion concert. We're going to do a whole lot of British music with some American sass. And so that's turning out to be a lot of music by Adele, The Beatles, Queen and all of these really, really cool British artists.

“We are also joining the New York City Gay Men's Chorus in June at the Whitney Museum in Manhattan. They have a big celebration as a takeover of the museum. We will be singing at Pride again. Brotherly Love, which is our small ensemble, is doing two big concerts — one up at New Hope in March and then we're doing one December 20th down at Rehoboth — getting our mission out in the suburbs and surrounding areas."

On a related note to the political climate, we have seen over the past years the 

defunding of many arts and cultural institutions

. In what ways has the Gay Men's Chorus been impacted by this and how has the organization been working to stay afloat?

“Public grants are becoming few and far between. We are losing grants and grants aren't available anymore because the funding has been cut from the government. Philadelphia is still strong with the city grants. Some state grants, some of them have been impacted, but nothing like the federal grants have been.

“Last year, we did this big March Madness fundraising [campaign]...and that was super successful. We're excited about doing that again. We hate to have to go to our friends to do that, but it's the support of everyone in Philly that, you know, allows us to be who we are and do the amazing work that we have done. And we're going to continue to move forward.

“I think that it's just being smart about what we are doing and how we're using the little money that we have.”

Under your leadership, how would you like to see this organization evolve?

“​​One thing that we as PGMC have been trying to do over the past couple of years is diversify our star choir and make it look like Philadelphia from all walks of life…And I think that our choir is looking more like Philadelphia, more and more every concert. That is cool and I want to definitely continue that moving forward.

“We are big in youth and community engagement, so we're revamping that. We do some concerts in schools … but also are trying to get together a big, queer City of Philadelphia Day for youth to come in and have some workshops and learn about what the city has to offer in all of our nonprofits and have a great music day with some choirs and singing. I really am looking forward to building upon that because youth outreach has been a huge part of what we are as PGMC.

“As we crest over 200 people, a couple of members are like, ‘Can we be too many?’ And I say to them: ‘Who am I to deny somebody who needs a community that is a great singer and wants to sing and wants to be a part and change? Who am I to deny that to somebody?’

“It's just innovative planning and really being able to continue what PGMC does very well and that is family, giving back, and creating community through song. For who we are and what we give and what Philadelphia gives to us.”

Rooted in a legacy of community and advocating for social justice, the musical organization is leaning on its mission throughout its upcoming season.


How the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus Is Responding to the Times

Q&A with Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus Director Michael Semancik

What Philadelphians have been wondering. We break down why things in Philadelphia are the way they are and how they work.

Philly, Explained

If you’re looking to expand your music tastes, but you’re tired of letting the algorithm decide for you, step outside and visit a local listening room. Over the years Philly has welcomed lounges similar to 

, Japanese listening bars and cafes centered around high-quality sound systems playing vinyl records. The concept is attracting old and new audiophiles looking for good music and community.

Here’s where to go if you want to listen to vinyl records in Philly.

Located above the jazzy Sassafras Bar, 48 Record Bar is a cozy listening room and 

 in Old City. The lounge regularly hosts programming from vinyl nights to open mics to author talks. Registration for ticketed events can be 

The Free Library has so much to offer beyond books, including music. The library’s music department not only has a vast collection of physical music available for loan, but now has a 

. The group meets on the last Wednesday of each month, offering a free third space to listen to music from the library’s catalog, or from your own. You can sign up to receive updates about the club 

 | 400 E. Girard Ave. & 4435 Baltimore Ave.

Spin some records whether you’re in Fishtown or West Philly. Milkcrate Cafe is the perfect place to sit down for a cup of coffee as you sit back and listen to some tunes. The coffee shop doubles as a record store with thousands of records to choose from. You can also grab some hi-fi audio gear at the shop.

Solar Myth brings the beats to South Broad’s musical scene. The back of the venue is perfect for intimate, live performances but you can get more of the kissa vibe toward the front by the bar. (And if you’re looking for more places to listen to jazz in the city, 

 and listening room evolved from a vending pop-up to a brick-and-mortar store in Germantown that’s preserving Black culture, music, and art. Learn about the next SOOK Session, its ongoing series spotlighting selectors, by keeping up with 

Did we miss your favorite listening room? 

 where to go. If you’ve found the artist that’s right for you, be sure to 

 to pick up a physical copy of their work.

If you’re looking to break up with streaming services, visit these listening rooms. 

Where To Listen to Vinyl in Philly

Explore Vinyl at These Listening Clubs, Lounges & Bars

Find the best of everything that Philadelphia has to offer.

Philly’s Best

Philly's Best

April showers bring May flowers, and boy is Philly in full bloom this month. We hope you have some comfortable walking shoes, because the city is packed with events throughout May to keep you outside and help you get to know your neighbors, local artisans, and performers.

You don’t have to wait 525,600 minutes to watch this musical. 

 is coming to the Arden Theatre on May 15 and running until June 22. Don’t miss the Tony Award-winning show following the lives of bohemians in New York’s East Village navigating life during the AIDS crisis.

 kicks off May 25 and will continue through July 6. Once a weekend festival, the event has since expanded to six weeks of exhibitions, screenings, and pop-ups.

If you’re looking for some grassroots performances, West Philly will be the place to be on May 31. The 

 will be taking over porches across the neighborhood with over 100 musical acts in a variety of genres. Grab a friend (and maybe a chair and sunscreen) and listen to some free music.

One of Philly’s biggest music festivals is back. 

 is taking over the Mann Center on May 31 and June 1. At the top of the festival’s billing are D’Angelo (with the Roots), Meek Mill, and Lenny Kravitz.

One of the oldest residential streets in the country will be one of the most bustling streets in the city on May 3. Elfreth’s Alley is hosting its annual 

. Shop for artwork, homegoods, and more at this one-day event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Holding off your planting until May gives your crops a chance to survive that last winter frost. If you’re still deciding what you want in your garden, visit 

Chestnut Hill’s Home & Garden Festival 

Just in time for Mother’s Day, find a last-minute gift or shop together at the 

. The roaming craft fair will be at Cherry Street Pier on May 10 and 11. If you go, say hi to the City Cast Philly team! We’ll be tabling that Saturday.

Come back to Cherry Street Pier the following weekend for 

. Shop for some eco-friendly alternatives while supporting local businesses. The fair is taking place May 17 from noon to 6 p.m.

! is taking over the business corridor on May 3. The block party begins at noon and includes Brauhaus Schmitz’s 

Two of Roxborough’s biggest events are coming together for one big party in the neighborhood. 

 is back for its 23rd year and joining forces with Rockin’ the Ridge Car Show on May 10. Expect performances from the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts and the West Philadelphia Orchestra, plus more than 70 classic cars and 80 vendors.

On the other side of the city on May 10, the 

 is coming to Lemon Hill Park. From 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., check out local food trucks, live bands, and over 50 vendors.

 is back between May 10 and May 18 to honor Philly’s green spaces. Sign up for a volunteer clean-up, a guided hike, and other nature-based activities throughout the celebration.

If you missed Otaku Fest last month, don’t fret. Video game, anime, and comic book fans are coming together from Philly and beyond for 

. The three-day event at the Philadelphia Convention Center will feature cosplay competitions, an artist alley, and appearances from John Boyega, John Cena, William Shatner, Manny Jacinto, Pricilla Presley, and Parker Posey. Attendees can purchase a day pass or attend between May 16-18.

Would you climb a greasy pole for some meats, cheeses, and gift cards? You can do that and more at Philadelphia’s 

. The street fair celebrates Philly’s Italian pride with music, food, local vendors, and a parade of saints. The festival will take over South Philly on May 17 and May 18.

 for a tasting, join the Philadelphia Zoo for the 

. You can participate in one of two sessions on May 17 between 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets range from $39 to $55 and guests receive complimentary access to the zoo. You can see the 

 (named after the Golden Girls) while you’re there!

 will knock your socks off. Several Philly restaurants are coming together for a friendly competition to raise money for MANNA, which provides meals for people with critical illnesses in Philly and New Jersey. Put some dip on your chip for a good cause on May 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Morgan’s Pier. May the best guacamole win!

May Events

What are you looking forward to this May?

From wine fests and renaissance faires to concerts and Mother’s Day art markets, here’s what Philly has in store for May. 

Your Guide to Philadelphia in May 2025

How to Spend May 2025 in Philly

It’s no secret that Philly is a musical city, with contributions to genres such as soul and hip-hop. But jazz is a genre with a long history in Philly, with greats such as Billie Holiday, Grover Washington Jr., and John Coltrane having connections to the city.

Although some Philadelphia’s jazz venues including 

 are long gone, several venues today are keeping the local jazz scene alive.

Since April is National Jazz Month, here are some places around the city to listen to live jazz performances.

Operating since 1989, Chris’ Jazz Cafe is the longest running jazz club in the city, with performances five nights a week. If you can’t make a show in person, the venue livestreams. The cafe also supports up-and-coming artists honing their craft by providing recording services.

The owners of SOUTH Restaurant and Jazz Club are no strangers to Philadelphia’s music scene. Brothers Robert and Ben Bynum Jr.’s father, Benjamin Bynum Sr., founded the 

 on Broad Street and Erie Avenue, which saw artists such as Aretha Franklin, Billy Paul, and George Benson come through the doors. Continuing his and North Philly’s jazz legacy, the brothers founded SOUTH blocks from where they were raised. Music lovers can see a 

 in its 75-seat venue while enjoying a meal of Southern-style favorites like gumbo and creole jambalaya.

Having taken over Boot & Saddle, Solar Myth entered Philly’s music ecosystem with avant-garde jazz and experimental music. Swing by the dimly lit venue and enjoy 

 while sipping on some coffee or wine. If you’re looking to add new sounds to your collection, you can also 

Are you a fan of whiskey? Time is a whiskey bar and tap room that offers 

. Open every day of the week, attendees always have a chance to catch a show in its intimate space (with some room to dance upstairs).

Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts

The Clef Club was founded in 1966 by the Musicians’ Protective Union Local 274. The club was a reprieve for jazz musicians and enjoyers alike, giving African American performers support and representation at a time of segregation. Growing from just a social club, the organization's construction of a performing arts facility later became the first institution specifically built for jazz in the United States. The organization thrives to this day with live performances and youth programming.

 with a plethora of programming across the city, from live performances to educational sessions in local schools. The month-long event is a great way to honor Philadelphia’s contributions to jazz and discover artists past and present.

Philadelphia has a rich jazz history. Here are some local venues keeping that legacy thriving.



Where To Listen To Live Jazz in Philly

Places Keeping Philly’s Jazz Legacy Alive

Discover the ultimate stage for your inner rockstar! This week, we're diving into Philly's vibrant karaoke scene.

 at this South Philly lounge every Sunday from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Pro-tip: put in those song requests 

Celebrate birthday vibes year-round at this more-than-80-year-old dive bar in South Philly. Every Friday at 9 p.m., you can flex those pipes for a supportive and energetic crowd.

Sing like no one is watching at this NoLibs spot every Monday from 9 p.m. to midnight. Pick whatever your heart desires from a huge song list. 21+, no cover charge.

Hey Philly reader Sean S. loves this Chinatown spot “because you can make an entire night out of it. Grab sushi for dinner downstairs then head upstairs for drinks and karaoke.”

Philly’s Best Karaoke Bars

Are you a vinyl head, or someone who just loves exploring and supporting local record stores? You’re living in the right town because Philly knows and loves good music. After all, so many great acts got their start here. (For more on that, read the next segment!)

Here are the best stores in Philly to revel in the magic of music:

This store holds an impressive collection of new and used vinyl records. If you’re a classic rock fan, this is the spot for you. They’ve also got band shirts, patches, posters, and other accessories to help you rock out in full gear.

Hit up this record store and smoke shop to explore punk and counterculture records, attend events, stock up on apparel, and more. 

If you’re building up your collection, you’ll want to hit up this well-stocked record store. You’ll find box sets and a great selection of new releases and used vinyl. 

This South Philly spot has more than just records, from graphic novels to home goods, VHS tapes, games, and clothing, there’s something for everyone here.

🗺️ And because you’re such a pal, I’ve made you a 

Google Map of Philly’s best record stores

 so you can save it to your phone the next time you’re record-store hopping! 

Which Philly record store is your fave?

Are you a vinyl head, or someone who just loves exploring and supporting local record stores? Check out the best record stores in Philly to revel in the magic of music.

music

The Philadelphians Who Shaped America’s Music Scene

Q&A with Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus Director Michael Semancik

Explore Vinyl at These Listening Clubs, Lounges & Bars

Latest articles

The Philadelphians Who Shaped America’s Music Scene

Q&A with Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus Director Michael Semancik

Explore Vinyl at These Listening Clubs, Lounges & Bars

How to Spend May 2025 in Philly

Places Keeping Philly’s Jazz Legacy Alive

Philly’s Best Karaoke Bars

Philly’s Best Record Stores

Latest articles

How to Spend May 2025 in Philly

Places Keeping Philly’s Jazz Legacy Alive

Philly’s Best Karaoke Bars

Philly’s Best Record Stores