Philadelphia International Records

US

Philadelphia International Records ( PIR ) was an American record label based in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1971 by songwriting and production duo Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff along with their longtime collaborator Thom Bell . It was known for showcasing the Philadelphia soul music genre (also known as Philly soul) that was founded on the gospel, doo-wop and soul music of the time. This sound later marked a prominent and distinct era within the R B genre. During the 1970s, the label released a string of worldwide hits that emphasized lavish orchestral instrumentation, heavy