A Groovy History of Pennsylvania Music

Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, has a musical history as rich and varied as its landscape. From the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has been a breeding ground for musical innovation and cultural expression.

From Folk to Philly Soul

The earliest musical influences in Pennsylvania came from the folk traditions of its European settlers. The Scots-Irish brought with them their haunting ballads, while the Germans brought their rich choral music. This blend of influences would later shape the sound of Pennsylvania’s own unique musical styles.

In the early 20th century, the rise of industrial cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia led to a thriving blues and jazz scene. These cities became hubs for legendary musicians like Gene Krupa, a Philadelphia-born drummer who revolutionized jazz drumming with his frenetic style, and Bill Haley, who hailed from Pennsylvania and whose song “Rock Around the Clock” is considered the first rock and roll hit.

Fun Fact: Bill Haley, the “father of rock and roll,” was originally a country musician who played polka music! His transition from polka to rock is a testament to the eclectic nature of Pennsylvania music.

The Philly Sound

The 1960s saw the emergence of the “Philly Sound,” a distinct style of soul music that emphasized smooth harmonies, lush instrumentation, and catchy hooks. The Sound was pioneered by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, who founded Philadelphia International Records and helped launch the careers of legendary artists like The O’Jays, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, and The Stylistics.

Fun Fact: The O’Jays’ hit “Love Train” was originally written about a train that transported people to the Philadelphia airport. Imagine a soulful song about airport travel!

From Punk to Pop

Pennsylvania continued to be a fertile ground for musical innovation in the following decades. The 1970s saw the rise of punk rock with bands like The Dead Milkmen and The Misfits hailing from the state. The 1980s saw the success of alternative rock bands like Live and The War on Drugs.

And of course, let’s not forget Taylor Swift, who got her start in Pennsylvania and went on to become one of the biggest pop stars in the world.

Fun Fact: Taylor Swift’s first album was actually a self-titled country album, showcasing the wide range of musical styles that Pennsylvania has produced.

A Legacy of Musical Diversity

From the folk traditions of its early settlers to the groundbreaking sounds of the Philly Sound, Pennsylvania’s musical legacy is a testament to the state’s rich cultural diversity. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain, proving that Pennsylvania is truly a state where music is in the air.