WXPN is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States by broadcasting “The Philly 250,” a curated collection of 250 songs that are from, by, and about Philadelphia. According to WXPN Programming Director Jim McGuinn, the list was compiled using listener submissions, input from Philly music experts, and staff selections to highlight the city’s musical legacy.
How is WXPN defining Philadelphia’s musical identity?
The station is framing the city’s sound as a cross-generational blend of genres. The “Philly 250” includes artists ranging from Lil Uzi Vert and Sheer Mag to Patti LaBelle and The A’s.
By combining community-sourced data with professional curation, WXPN is treating the city’s music history as a living archive. Jim McGuinn stated that the goal is for listeners to discover new aspects of the city’s legacy while celebrating known favorites.
What is the broadcast schedule for the Philly 250?
The music marathon begins at 8 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Listeners can access the programming via 88.5 or through the station’s online streaming services.
For those who miss the initial broadcast, WXPN has scheduled a “victory lap” on Sunday. This session starts at 8 a.m. and focuses on the top songs from the curated list.
Why does community-sourced curation matter for local music?
The methodology used by Jim McGuinn and his team reflects a shift toward democratic curation. Instead of a top-down list, the station integrated “people vital to the scene” and general listeners.
This approach ensures that artists—like Sheer Mag—sit alongside artists like Patti LaBelle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is included in the Philly 250?
The list features a wide array of artists, including Lil Uzi Vert, Sheer Mag, Patti LaBelle, and The A’s, according to WXPN.
How was the list created?
WXPN Programming Director Jim McGuinn noted that the list was formed by combining online listener submissions, picks from music experts, and staff selections.
When can I listen to the top songs?
The top songs will be played during the “victory lap” broadcast starting at 8 a.m. on Sunday.
What is your favorite Philadelphia-based artist or song? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into local music history.
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