by Carrie Brownstein

Fayette Pinkney, an original member and singer in the Three Degrees, has passed away.

The Three Degrees formed in the 1960s when Pinkney was still in high school. The band was an essential part of The Philly Sound: tight, soulful, sweet, and pretty much the smoothest stuff you've ever heard. Seriously, the songs kind of just glide.

Listen to "You're The One:"

A great starting place for The Three Degrees is a compilation called The Roulette Years. You can pretty much get any dance party started with the Three Degrees, charm the pants off anyone, or set the mood. Their songs dim the lights but somehow brighten the room. Yes, they were that good.

Listen to "You're The Fool:"

RIP Fayette Pinkney; thanks for your music.

Lastly, here are two other artists associated with the Philly Sound: