North Philadelphia to Name Street After Earl Young, Noted as the Inventor of Disco
Earl Young, a significant figure in the evolution of disco music, is being honored with a new street designation in Philadelphia that recognizes both his contributions to the music industry and his personal journey. Known widely as “the Man Who Invented Disco,” Young holds the record for the most plaques on the Philly Music Alliance Walk of Fame. He is a celebrated drummer who was instrumental in shaping the “Sound of Philadelphia”, largely through his work with the iconic MFSB (Mother, Father, Sister, Brother) organization and the influential disco band, the Trammps, which produced the hit “Disco Inferno” in 1977.
The formal celebration of Young’s contributions to music will occur on Wednesday, marking the christening of Earl Young Way, a segment of Firth Street located between 15th and Sydenham Streets. This honor is bestowed upon him during a ceremony hosted by District 5 Councilmember Jeffery Young. As part of the event, attendees can look forward to performances by renowned artists, including Ronnie Moss of The Spinners and Young’s own ensemble featuring the Trammps.
Yumeno Young, communications director for Councilmember Jeffery Young, announced that the ceremony will celebrate the legacy of Black music in Philadelphia and the continued recognition of its living legends. Recent honors have also gone to figures like DJs Lady B. and Patty Jackson, as well as plans for the 400 block of South Broad Street to be renamed Teddy Pendergrass Way on what would have been the late artist’s 75th birthday.
Earl Young, now 85 years old, has a storied past that includes a challenging childhood spent in foster care in North Philadelphia. Young’s musical journey began with humble beginnings, learning to play drums on makeshift instruments he created as a child. He was inspired by local musicians and eventually went on to work with major industry names such as Wilson Pickett and the Stylistics.
Young is widely recognized for his influential work that contributed to the popularization of the disco genre in the 1970s. His style, characterized by the signature four-on-the-floor beat, set the groundwork for what would soon become a global phenomenon. Throughout his career, Young has earned various accolades, including three Grammy Awards and an induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2016.
With the naming of Earl Young Way, Young’s contributions are now etched into the fabric of Philadelphia history, offering a lasting tribute to both his musical legacy and personal resilience. This honor holds profound significance for Young, especially as he reflects on the kindness he received in his youth, particularly from a compassionate woman named Orena Hunter, who supported him during crucial formative years.
