15 Songs About Philadelphia

Philadelphia, a city that pulses with history, culture, and a distinct musical legacy, has always been more than just a place on the map for me. It’s a vibrant tapestry of sounds and stories, each corner echoing with the rhythm of its past and present. Growing up here, I’ve walked its storied streets, from the cobblestones of Old City to the bustling neighborhoods of West Philly, each with its own soundtrack.

Music is the heartbeat of Philadelphia, a city that has given birth to countless genres and iconic artists. From the soulful strains of Philadelphia soul to the groundbreaking beats of hip-hop, Philly’s influence on the music world is undeniable. It’s a place where legends like John Coltrane once played, where the roots of American Bandstand took hold, and where the echoes of jazz, rock, and R&B continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

In this article, I invite you to join me on a musical journey through Philadelphia. We’ll explore 15 songs that capture the essence of this city, each one a testament to its enduring spirit and cultural significance.

1. “Bandstand Boogie” by Barry Manilow

“Bandstand Boogie” is a song closely associated with the iconic television show American Bandstand, which was originally broadcast from Philadelphia. The show, hosted by Dick Clark, became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing teenagers dancing to the latest hits and featuring performances by popular artists. The original instrumental version of “Bandstand Boogie” was composed by Charles Albertine and performed by Les Elgart’s big band. Barry Manilow added lyrics to the song and recorded it in 1975. His version became the theme song for American Bandstand from 1977 to 1987, encapsulating the spirit and energy of the show.

2. “Kids From Philly” by George Thorogood & The Destroyers

“Kids From Philly” is an instrumental track by George Thorogood & The Destroyers, featured on their 1980 album More George Thorogood and the Destroyers. The song captures the raw energy and gritty vibe of Philadelphia’s youth. As an instrumental, it relies on Thorogood’s powerful guitar riffs and the band’s dynamic rhythm to convey the essence of the city. The song reflects the blues-rock style that Thorogood is known for and serves as a tribute to the spirited and rebellious nature of Philadelphia’s younger generation.

3. “Dancing In The Streets” by Martha & The Vandellas

“Dancing In The Street” by Martha & The Vandellas, released in 1964, is a classic Motown hit that has become an anthem of joy and social change. Although not exclusively about Philadelphia, the song mentions the city as one of several where people are called to come together and celebrate. The song was written by William “Mickey” Stevenson, Marvin Gaye, and Ivy Jo Hunter. It was inspired by the sight of children playing in the water from opened fire hydrants, which looked like they were dancing. Over time, the song gained a political dimension, becoming associated with the civil rights movement and urban unrest in cities like Philadelphia.

4. “Rock’n Me” by Steve Miller Band

“Rock’n Me” by the Steve Miller Band is a 1976 hit that features a catchy, upbeat rock sound. The song includes a line that mentions Philadelphia among other cities, as the singer describes his travels across the United States. Written by Steve Miller, the song was created as a feel-good anthem for live performances and became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. “Rock’n Me” is celebrated for its infectious melody and straightforward rock vibe, making it a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite for road trip playlists.

5. “TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)” by MFSB featuring The Three Degrees

“TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)” is a 1974 instrumental track by MFSB featuring vocals by The Three Degrees. Written by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the song was created as the theme for the television show Soul Train. It became the first television theme song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track is emblematic of the “Philly sound,” characterized by lush strings, a prominent horn section, and a driving rhythm. It played a significant role in popularizing disco music and remains a staple at Philadelphia sporting events.

6. “Punk Rock Girl” by The Dead Milkmen

“Punk Rock Girl” is a 1988 song by The Dead Milkmen, a punk rock band from Philadelphia. Written by lead singer Joe Genaro, the song tells the story of a young couple’s rebellious adventures across the city. The lyrics reference various Philadelphia landmarks and businesses, such as the Village Pizza Company on Market Street. The song’s humorous and irreverent tone, combined with its catchy melody, made it an underground hit and a defining track of the band’s career.

7. “Gonna Fly Now” by Bill Conti

“Gonna Fly Now,” also known as the “Theme from Rocky,” is a 1976 song composed by Bill Conti with lyrics by Carol Connors and Ayn Robbins. It became iconic due to its association with the movie Rocky, where the protagonist, Rocky Balboa, runs up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The song’s triumphant brass fanfare and motivational lyrics have made it a symbol of perseverance and determination. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is frequently played at sporting events, especially in Philadelphia.

8. “Philadelphia” by Neil Young

“Philadelphia” is a song by Neil Young, written for the 1993 film Philadelphia, directed by Jonathan Demme. The film, which stars Tom Hanks as a lawyer dying of AIDS, uses Young’s song in its closing scenes. The track is a poignant and emotional ballad, reflecting themes of love, loss, and resilience. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Young’s haunting vocals and the song’s somber piano arrangement make it a powerful tribute to the city and its role in the film’s narrative.

9. “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince

“Summertime” is a classic hip-hop track by DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, released in May 1991 as the lead single from their fourth studio album, Homebase . The song, produced by Hula & K. Fingers, samples Kool & the Gang’s “Summer Madness” and features a laid-back, nostalgic vibe that captures the essence of summer in Philadelphia. Will Smith’s lyrics reminisce about barbecues, cruising in cars, and hanging out with friends, painting a vivid picture of the city’s summer culture. The track was a commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group . Its music video, which premiered during an episode of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, further cemented its status as a summer anthem.

10. “The Heart of Rock and Roll” by Huey Lewis & The News

“The Heart of Rock and Roll” is a rock song by Huey Lewis & The News, released in 1984 as the third single from their album Sports . The song celebrates the enduring spirit of rock and roll across various American cities, including Philadelphia. Inspired by the band’s experiences touring the country, the lyrics mention Philadelphia as one of the places where rock and roll is “still beating.” The song’s energetic vibe and catchy chorus made it a hit, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 . The music video features concert footage and skits filmed in New York City and Los Angeles, highlighting the band’s dynamic live performances.

11. “Sailing to Philadelphia” by Mark Knopfler & James Taylor

“Sailing to Philadelphia” is the title track from Mark Knopfler’s 2000 album, featuring James Taylor . The song is inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s novel Mason & Dixon, which tells the story of Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, the surveyors who established the Mason-Dixon Line. The lyrics explore the journey of these two men as they sail to Philadelphia to begin their work. Knopfler’s and Taylor’s vocals blend seamlessly, creating a reflective and evocative narrative. The song’s folk-rock style and historical context provide a unique perspective on Philadelphia’s significance in American history.

12. “Motownphilly” by Boyz II Men

“Motownphilly” is a new jack swing track by Boyz II Men, released in April 1991 as the lead single from their debut album, Cooleyhighharmony . The song, produced by Dallas Austin and co-written by Michael Bivins, combines the sounds of 1960s Motown and 1970s Philly soul, hence the title “Motownphilly.” The lyrics reflect the group’s journey from Philadelphia to stardom, with references to their hometown and the music scene that influenced them. The accompanying music video, filmed in various locations around Philadelphia, features appearances by other artists and groups associated with Bivins . “Motownphilly” was a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a defining track of the early 1990s R&B scene.

13. “Philadelphia Freedom” by Elton John

“Philadelphia Freedom” is a song by Elton John, released as a single in 1975. The song was written as a tribute to Elton John’s friend, tennis legend Billie Jean King, and her team, the Philadelphia Freedoms, which was part of the World TeamTennis league. Despite its personal origins, the song resonated with broader themes of liberty and celebration, aligning with the spirit of the upcoming U.S. Bicentennial in 1976. The track features the lush orchestration typical of the “Philly Soul” sound, which was popularized by producers Gamble and Huff. “Philadelphia Freedom” became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming an enduring anthem associated with the city of Philadelphia.

14. “Streets of Philadelphia” by Bruce Springsteen

“Streets of Philadelphia” is a song by Bruce Springsteen, written for the 1993 film Philadelphia, which starred Tom Hanks as a lawyer battling HIV/AIDS. The song captures the themes of isolation and resilience, with Springsteen’s haunting vocals and the minimalist, synth-driven arrangement creating a poignant atmosphere. Released as a single in 1994, it became a commercial success, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in several countries. Critically acclaimed, the song won an Academy Award for Best Original Song and four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year. It remains one of Springsteen’s most powerful and socially significant works.

15. “Sweet Little Sixteen” by Chuck Berry

“Sweet Little Sixteen” is a rock and roll classic by Chuck Berry, released in 1958. While not specifically about Philadelphia, the song mentions the city as part of a list of places where the teenage protagonist dreams of performing. The song captures the excitement and aspirations of youth, with Berry’s signature guitar riffs and energetic vocals. It became one of Berry’s biggest hits, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the R&B chart. The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release, inspiring other artists and contributing to the development of rock and roll as a genre.

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Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.