On Dec. 5 the Philadelphia Chapter and the GRAMMY Foundation hosted a GRAMMY SoundChecks with Raphael Saadiq at the Fillmore at the TLA. Currently touring with John Legend to promote his latest solo release The Way I See It, Saadiq put on a special performance and wowed the attending GRAMMY U members with not only his vocal and production abilities, but his incredible insight into the music industry.
With experience as a performer, band member, solo artist, producer and engineer, Saadiq had much to share about hard work, self-motivation, integrity and humility as a means to remain grounded — and stay successful — in the evolving music industry. Much attention was also paid to the importance of tradition and valuing the history of the music.
Saadiq's honesty and accessibility offered a wonderful gift to all attendees. Drexel University student Jessica Galenza shared, "My experience with [The Academy] staff and the [GRAMMY SoundChecks with Raphael Saadiq]was incomparable…the opportunity to talk to a successful recording artist…about his encounters with the music industry is something I'll never forget. I will definitely be looking into more of the opportunities that GRAMMY U has to offer."
After the question-and-answer session, attendees were introduced to many of Philadelphia's leading artists, producers and GRAMMY nominees. Those in attendance included Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, legendary producing/songwriting team and innovators of the Philly Sound. Tapping into that signature sound, the band performed "Sure Hope You Mean It" from Saadiq's current album and the Gamble and Huff classic "I'll Always Love My Momma."
The partnerships of tradition and innovation as well as talent and intelligence made this event one of the more memorable to date for the Philadelphia Chapter.