The Philadelphia International label spawned a cadre of ‘70s soul superstars, including the O’Jays, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, Lou Rawls and more. But there were some other talented artists on the label that didn’t become household names. Now, with the release Conquer the World: The Lost Soul of Philadelphia International Records, artists like Pat & the Blenders, Johnny Williams and Ruth McFadden have had their music released from the vaults and chronicled for soul fans everywhere. Featuring singles like the Soul Devalents’ “Grasshopper” and the theme from Five Fingers of Death, this collection captures some of Philly’s forgotten gems. – dusty culpepper

Send this article to a friend