(March 1, 2024) In 1965, Charlie Ingui formed the Soul Survivors along with brother Richie, vocalist Kenny Jeremiah, keyboardist Paul Venturini and drummer Joe Forgione. Within two years, the band would nail an RIAA Certified Gold Single Award on their office walls, thanks to their biggest hit, “Expressway To Your Heart” – composed and produced by the almighty Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. Throughout the years, the Soul Survivors cut sides with famed producers such as FAME Studios’ Rick Hall (“Mama Soul”), then back to Gamble and Huff in the 1970’s on the duo’s TSOP Records imprint (a subsidiary of Philadelphia International Records).
(March 1, 2024) In 1965, Charlie Ingui formed the Soul Survivors along with brother Richie, vocalist Kenny Jeremiah, keyboardist Paul Venturini and drummer Joe Forgione. Within two years, the band would nail an RIAA Certified Gold Single Award on their office walls, thanks to their biggest hit, “Expressway To Your Heart” – composed and produced by the almighty Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. Throughout the years, the Soul Survivors cut sides with famed producers such as FAME Studios’ Rick Hall (“Mama Soul”), then back to Gamble and Huff in the 1970’s on the duo’s TSOP Records imprint (a subsidiary of Philadelphia International Records).
Fast forward to today, and Charlie’s new single, “Wake Up Old World,” harkens to the Philly Soul theme of music with a message. An indirect “sequel” of sorts to the classic “Wake Up Everybody,” Ingui’s soft but soulful vocals deliver a clear message that there is STILL work to do. Reminding the listeners that the wheels of change are turning with much to be learned, Ingui sings from a place of experience, against a lilting arrangement augmented by guitar and flutes.
Being the last of the Soul Survivors vocalists still with us (RIP – Richie Ingui, Kenny Jeremiah), it’s great to see Charlie Ingui carrying on the soul music torch he and his band of brothers once lit many years ago. Looking forward to hearing more from Mr. Ingui.
By Kevin Goins
Charlie Ingui - "Wake Up Old World"