Jun 9, 2016

Philly Favorites Headed to Broad Street

by: Carly Rapaport-Stein

Jerry Blavat, Eric Okdeh, Jane Golden and Charlie Gracie unveil the mural design at the mural's future site. Photo by Steve Weinik.

Broad Street will be singing a sweet tune this fall. Local musical legends are being honored with a new mural at the intersection of Broad and Tasker streets, next to the parking lot of the Valley Green Bank. Legendary Bandstand-era musicians stand side by side, gracing the prominent wall with their smiling faces and swingin’ personalities. Artist Eric Okdeh’s design concept highlights local favorites like Jerry Blavat, Frankie Avalon, Chubby Checker, Fabian Forte, Al Martino, Bobby Rydell, Charlie Gracie, and James Darren.

South Philly Musicians Remix rendering by Eric Okdeh, subject to change

At the press conference, Jerry Blavat, one of the mural’s subjects, commented, “For Jane and Mural Arts to honor our musicians is a beautiful thing, because this will be the legacy when all of us are gone… I want to thank all of you for your love that you have for these artists that are so important to South Philadelphia.”

This project replaces a mural celebrating many of the same South Philadelphia music icons. The new mural, South Philly Musicians Remix, simultaneously commemorates the lost mural and recreates the beloved and iconic presence it cast over South Philadelphia. Stay tuned this summer and fall to follow the mural’s progress, and then join us in October for a groovy musical dedication.

Last updated: Jun 9, 2016

Art in Philadelphia , Community Murals

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