*We have sad news to report from the music world. Legendary songwriter/producer Thom Bell has passed away. Bell, who along with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff created the “Philly Sound,” was 79.
According to reports, Bell died at home in Bellingham, Washington on Thursday (12-22-22). No cause of death was immediately given. However, his wife, Vanessa Bell, said his passing came after a lengthy illness. She declined to give additional details.
A Grammy-winning songwriter and producer, he was one of the key architects of the richly-orchestrated ‘Sound of Philadelphia’ brand of soul music along with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff.
He is credited on dozens of 70s classics including the O’Jays’ “Back Stabbers,” Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes’ “I Miss You,” and The Stylistics’ “Betcha By Golly Wow” among many others.
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Bell, who was born in Jamaica in 1943, moved as a child to Philadelphia, where he was raised with nine brothers and sisters.
His parents were both musicians, and he studied classical piano as a child.
Bell is survived by his wife Vanessa and six children.
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