There’s going to be a new mural at Broad & Tasker, replacing the 2004 mural, South Philly Musician, which has become damaged and past the point of repair. The new mural, named South Philly Musicians Remixed, will be created by Erik Okdeh and features many of the same artists from the original, including Frankie Avalon, Chubby Checker, Fabian Forte, Al Martino, Bobby Rydell and Jerry Blavat. Additions will include Charlie Gracie and James Darren and it aims to commemorate the Bandstand era of music in Philadelphia. Jerry Blavat, South Philly native and radio icon comments: “These artists that are on the mural represent young people who at a very early age were able to follow their dreams. They represent truly what America was about, where you were able to follow your dreams and your passion.” In August, there will be a community paint day, where the public can lend a hand in the painting efforts, and on October 15, the site will be formally dedicated upon completion.
Jane Golden, Executive Director of the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program says:
“We know the American Bandstand era of music is so important to South Philadelphia, and to our entire region. The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program is excited to create a new version of a mural commemorating these musicians and their legacy, and to honor this iconic period of Philadelphia’s rich cultural history.” For more on the Mural Arts Program, visit: muralarts.org
The South Philly Musician Mural is getting ‘remixed’
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