When Hooters drummer David Uosikkinen moved back to the Philadelphia area after 25 years in California, he was looking for a fresh start, writes Victor Fiorillo for Philadelphia Magazine.
Living on the Main Line and navigating personal challenges, he found inspiration in the city’s music history. A stroll through Rittenhouse Square sparked an idea: what if he revisited the soundtrack of Philadelphia through a modern lens?
That idea became In the Pocket, a musical project that celebrates songs recorded by Philadelphia artists. Over the past 15 years, Uosikkinen and his circle of fellow musicians have reinterpreted 23 tracks.
He covered artists from Todd Rundgren to the O’Jays, with some tracks even daring to rival the originals. Each recording pairs with a video that acts as “modern liner notes,” sharing the story behind the music.
Not every artist has embraced the idea — Chubby Checker famously asked Uosikkinen not to record “The Twist”. Most, however, have welcomed his tributes. And audiences have, too.
On September 27th, Uosikkinen marks In the Pocket’s 15th anniversary at Ardmore Music Hall. The show promises a parade of Philly talent, with as many as 25 musicians on stage, performing everything from Bowie’s “Young Americans” to Elvis Costello.
To learn more about Uosikkinen’s journey, visit Philadelphia Magazine.
