William “Poogie” Hart, the lead singer and songwriter for the celebrated Philadelphia soul outfit The Delfonics, has died. He was aged 77.

Hart’s son, Hadi, confirmed his death to Rolling Stone, saying the singer died from complications during surgery on Thursday, July 14, 2022.

Hart founded The Delfonics in the 1960s alongside his brother, Wilbert, Randy Cain, Ritchie Daniels, and Thom Bell.

Some of their biggest hits included “La-La Means I Love You” and “Didn’t I Blow Your Mind This Time,” which earned the group a GRAMMY in 1971 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group, Vocal or Instrumental.

Hart and the Delfonics rose to prominence at the end of the Sixties and hit their stride in the early Seventies. They blend rich orchestral arrangements with funk and R&B influences to produce sweet music which won the heart and souls of many.

Wilber Hart, the brother of Poogie, is currently the last surviving member of the group.

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