The Delfonics

R&B group[11]

What is The Delfonics known for?

The Delfonics were a notable American R&B/soul group originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Comprised of members like William "Poogie" Hart, Wilbert Hart, and Randy Cain, who were all former students at Overbrook High School in Philadelphia in the mid-60s. The group was most active from 1965 to 2022.

They were particularly popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with their breakout hits including "La-La (Means I Love You)", "Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)", "Break Your Promise", "I'm Sorry", and "Ready or Not Here I Come (Can't Hide from Love)". These songs were primarily written by lead vocalist and founding member William Hart, with arrangements by producer Thom Bell.

The Delfonics' music has had a broad cultural influence, being featured in multiple film soundtracks and video games. For instance, their songs were used in Quentin Tarantino's 1997 movie "Jackie Brown" and in the video game "Grand Theft Auto V".

Early in their career, the group started as The Orphonics, a name inspired by a stereo machine the Harts owned in their basement. After a series of collaborations and introductions, they got introduced to Thom Bell by Stan Watson. This led to the release of their first song "He Don't Really Love You".

Eventually, their name was changed to "The Delfonics". Their first recording under the new name, "He Don't Really Love You" b/w "Without You," arranged and produced by Thom Bell, was released in August 1966. After encountering various transitions in the music recording industry, their breakthrough came when they released "La-La (Means I Love You)" on Stan Watson's Philly Groove Records in 1967.

Although many of the original members have sadly passed away, their music and influence continue to resonate in the R&B and soul music industry.

Learn more about the amazing journey of The Delfonics.