From time to time there are labels that showcase the music that defines a city. For example, Sub Pop in Seattle, Stax in Memphis, Motown in Detroit, T.K. Records in Maimi, and Chess Records in Chicago. Philadelphia International Records (PIR) was a label based in Philadelphia that was famous for showcasing what became known as the Philly Sound. During the 1970s the label released a string of worldwide hits including the following, celebrated here with Authentic, First Presentation, First-State RIAA White Mattes:
Billy Paul “Me And Mrs. Jones” was released in September 1972, certified RIAA gold on 12/4/72 and reached #1 on the Billboard charts…
The inscription on the back tells a part of the PIR growth story…