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Entertainment Overview

Philadelphia has a rhythm of its own. Whether you're listening to the Philadelphia Orchestra while picnicking on the lawn at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, or having a jazz brunch at Zanzibar Blue, you'll soon be caught up in that rhythm. Of course, Philly holds a special place in pop music history. American Bandstand, hosted by Dick Clark, began here as a local dance show. When it went national in 1957, it gave a boost to many hometown boys, including Fabian, Bobby Rydell, Frankie Avalon, and Chubby Checker. The city's rock-and-roll tradition began in 1955 with Bill Haley and the Comets. In the 1970s the Philadelphia Sound -- a polished blend of disco, pop, and rhythm and blues -- came alive through Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff; its lush sound has been kept alive by chart toppers such as Hall and Oates, Patti LaBelle, Boyz II Men, and rapper/actor Will Smith, as well as newer acts, notably Jill Scott, Eve, and Pink.

Bars and clubs can change hands or go out of business faster than a soft pretzel goes stale. Many places are open until 2 AM; cover charges vary from free to about $12. Some may not be open every night, so call ahead. A few places do not accept credit cards, so carry some cash. For current information check the entertainment pages of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the City Paper, and Philadelphia magazine.