Hundreds of people enjoyed the Fourth of July festivities at Wawa Welcome America on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

The event is a big tradition for the City of Brotherly Love. Although heavy rain picked up in the area by the end of the evening, those who stuck around were still energetic and watched the fireworks that went on as scheduled.

The concert’s theme was a tribute to Soul music including a spotlight on the legendary songwriting and producing duo of Gamble & Huff. Fans of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff enjoyed a tribute to “The Sound of Philadelphia.” The concert also included performances by ‘‘Hamilton” star Leslie Odom Jr., Gospel singer Leon Bridges, Empire’s Yazz The Greatest, Latin group VIVA MÁS, The O’Jays, and more.

Prior to the concert, AL DÍA spoke with Latin Pop group VIVA MÁS, who said it was for special for them to be able to perform for their hometown.

“We heard we’re the first Latino group to ever perform at Parkway on Fourth of July. All we can say is we’re truly humbled,” said one of the four members.

“Plus, we grew up listening to Gamble & Huff. We take pride in paying homage to the music before us.”

Leslie Odom Jr. also spoke with AL DÍA, and commented on his recent Tony win and how he’s evolved as an artist.

“[It hasn’t] changed me. If anything, I hope it changes the opportunities I’m forwarded— the things I’m able to do,” Odom Jr. said. “I’m a Philadelphia artist everywhere I go. It’s where I got my lens, and it’s where my taste [as an artist] was developed.”

[node:field_slideshow]