Show to pay tribute to Philadelphia-music maven George Manney

Like many of George Manney's friends and acquaintances, it seems, Charlie Gracie was shocked when he heard in December that the musician and Philadelphia-music maven had died at 64 of pancreatic cancer.

"I didn't even know he was sick. He never told anybody," the still-vibrant rock-and-roll pioneer said from his home in Drexel Hill about the drummer who sometimes accompanied him. "We were friends for quite a few years. Very quiet guy and a hell of a drummer. When I got the news, I couldn't believe it."

Gracie, 79, who made some recordings at Manney's home studio in Northeast Philadelphia, in addition to using him as an accompanist, will be the closing act at a four-hour tribute show Sunday that is a testament to Manney's wide-ranging impact on the Philadelphia music community.

The lineup includes Bobby Rydell, the Soul Survivors, the Orlons, and Danny and the Juniors. After Gracie's set, the show will end with a "Farewell Dear Friend" jam. Proceeds will benefit the Fox Chase Cancer Center.

The tribute is also the first event organized by the fledgling Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame. George Pettignano, the organization's president, and Steve Kurtz will serve as emcees.

Manney, who died just a week after receiving the cancer diagnosis, was instrumental in helping to get the Hall of Fame off the ground. That's not surprising, given his passion for Philadelphia music. His home was crammed with memorabilia and, in his final years, he was working on a documentary series chronicling the city's musical heritage.

"He did a lot of things for me," said Gracie, adding that it was a shame Manney would not get to see the Hall of Fame come to complete fruition. In the meantime, he's happy to donate his time to remember his friend.

"You have to give credit where credit is due."

George Manney Tribute Show, with Charlie Gracie, Bobby Rydell, Danny and the Juniors, the Orlons, the Soul Survivors, the Tymes, and more. 2 p.m. Sunday at the Philadelphia Clef Club, 738 S. Broad St. $20. 215-893-9912.