Harold Melvin (June 25, 1939 – March 24, 1997) was a pivotal figure in the evolution of Philadelphia soul music. As the founder and leader of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, he guided the group from its doo-wop origins in the 1950s to international acclaim in the 1970s. Under his leadership, the Blue Notes delivered timeless hits like "If You Don't Know Me by Now" and "The Love I Lost," characterized by lush orchestration and emotive vocals. Collaborating with producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, Melvin's work significantly shaped the Philadelphia International Records sound. His enduring influence continues to resonate in the realms of R&B and soul music. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Melvin?utm_source=openai))