Saying Goodbye to Richie Ingui
The Philadelphia music community lost a part of its heart and soul when Richie Ingui passed away suddenly on January 13, 2017. I lost a little piece of my childhood also. The Soul Survivors' one-time manager was the uncle of one of my closest friends. Her older sister had a teenage crush on Richie. For a while, the Soul Survivors were like our friends because there was a personal connection. For me, it was secondary, but it was still exciting knowing people who knew them. Any time, my whole life, "Expressway to Your Heart" came on the radio, it brought a smile to my face, and in my heart, because it brought back my childhood memories.
Ingui, along with his brother Charlie, were founding members of The Soul Survivors, and were rocketed to fame with their hit “Expressway to Your Heart” in 1967. Not only was this the first hit record for The Soul Survivors, it was the first hit song that record producers Gamble and Huff wrote and produced together. “Expressway” became known for its mix of soul, R&B, and a little bit of rock. This musical mixture became known as TSOP – The Sound of Philadelphia.
The Soul Survivors had several other successful songs including “Explosion in Your Soul”, and “Impossible Mission (Mission Impossible)”. None of their later releases were as popular as “Expressway” though.
Raised on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Ingui, Charlie, and fellow band member Kenny Jeremiah, moved to Philadelphia in 1967. At the time the band was called the Dedications. They changed their name to The Soul Survivors before recording “Expressway to Your Heart”.
Ingui and Charlie were currently touring and would have celebrated fifty years of entertaining this year. They were also a part of David Uosikkinen’s “In the Pocket” project, which showcases musicians who have contributed to the musical history of Philadelphia. Charlie Ingui continues to perform with them. Uosikkinen is an original member of The Hooters.
Richie Ingui will long be remembered for his beautiful, soulful voice. His music left an impact on Philadelphia and his passing has left a hole in our musical hearts. Rest in Peace.
About Ellen Ann
JournalistI grew up in Philadelphia which is rich in the culture of music and arts. I played the cello for 3 years in elementary school and for a short time I was a part of the Philadelphia Children's Orchestra. I believe every home should have a piano whether anyone plays it or not. Someone will almost always try to learn and there is always a friend or relative who will just sit down and play. I enjoy most music, live theater, and live comedy. Music brings back memories, soothes the soul, changes my mood and outlook. Sometimes all it takes is a favorite song to make the day beautiful! I now live in the Phoenix, AZ area where I am a not-so-boring accountant. I try to make time to travel, explore the area where I live, the music and arts in the southwest, and just, in general, learn who I really am and who I want to be.
