Philly Gumbo, a Philadelphia-based band known for its eclectic mix of music genres, will bring its blend of New Orleans R&B, reggae, blues and Afrobeat to the stage July 3 in a pre-Independence Day show, the third in the Chestnut Hill Community Association’s Pastorius Park Concert Series. 

This longtime band has been a staple in the Philadelphia music scene and continues to captivate audiences with music that is unique, while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.

Philly Gumbo's influences span a broad spectrum of music styles and artists. Their New Orleans funk is inspired by The Meters, while Booker T. & the MGs provide a foundation for their Memphis R&B sound. Legends such as Bob Marley and Burning Spear have shaped their approach to reggae, and the rhythms of the great Fela Kuti’s Afrobeats are woven throughout. This rich tapestry of influences allows Philly Gumbo to create their distinctive “gumbo mix.”

Driven by a shared passion for authentically Black music styles and a commitment to create a diverse musical experience, Philly Gumbo has carved out a sound that is as varied as it is entrancing. This dedication has earned them a loyal fan base and a reputation for delivering high-energy, dance-inducing performances. Their accolades include being named a “Best Of” selection by Philadelphia Magazine in their annual “Best Of Philadelphia” issues. They have graced the stages of top venues such as the Kimmel Center, the Sellersville Theater, and World Café Live, and have been featured in major events including the Atlantic City Summer Jazz Festival, Musikfest, Jambalaya Jam, and Jam On The River.

“Philly Gumbo’s long-term popularity has come from two things,” said founding member Randall Grass in a 2023 interview, “an ability to play an authentic and unique mix of New Orleans R&B, funk, reggae, blues, and soul, and the presence of great singers, such as Brenda Smith, Walt Taylor, Jeannie Brooks, Richard Johnson, and current lead vocalist India Rex.”

The band’s journey began in the 1980s, when singer Walt Taylor and Grass, who plays keyboards, started performing as a duo at the former Taker's Cafe in Maplewood Mall in Germantown. Over the years, Philly Gumbo has evolved, incorporating new members and influences while staying true to their roots. Their music is a celebration of the African diaspora’s contribution to global music, blending genres in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary. The current lineup of Philly Gumbo boasts Tim Hayes on drums and vocals, Peter Eshelman on guitar and vocals, Randall Grass on keyboards, Bert Harris on bass, and India Rex, the band's lead vocalist for the past 14 years. Richard Orr, who officially joined the band a decade ago after guest appearances with the group in the 1980s, adds even more depth of sound with his saxophone, flute, and clarinet.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Pastorius Park, the concert promises an evening filled with dancing and transcendent grooves delivered with the passion and energy that define Philly Gumbo.

Join music lovers from across the area for the Chestnut Hill Community Association’s Pastorius Park Concert Series, sponsored by Temple Health - Chestnut Hill Hospital, on July 3, at 7:30 p.m., for what promises to be an unforgettable night with Philly Gumbo. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering their music for the first time, this concert is a celebration of musical diversity and the enduring spirit of one of Philadelphia's most beloved bands. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Philly Gumbo in one of the city’s most beautiful outdoor venues.

For information, visit chestnuthill.org.