Biography
Walter "Bunny" Sigler (March 27, 1941 – October 6, 2017) was a pivotal figure in the development of the Philly soul sound, renowned as a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Sigler earned his nickname 'Bunny' as a child, both for his prominent front tooth and because he was born near Easter. He began his musical journey singing in church and performing with local doo-wop groups such as The Opals, which included his brother James Sigler. By the late 1950s, he was performing in local venues and recording for V-Tone Records, and his emotionally charged performance style soon made him a teen idol in Philadelphia.[1][4][6]
Sigler's breakthrough came in 1967 with his medley "Let the Good Times Roll & Feel So Good," which reached #20 on the R&B charts and #22 on the pop charts. This success led to further recordings with Cameo-Parkway, but when the label folded, Sigler transitioned to working with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the architects of the Philadelphia International label. He became an integral part of the Philly soul movement, not only as a solo artist but also as a Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer for acts like The O'Jays, Patti LaBelle, Instant Funk, and Shirley Jones. Sigler's style blended gospel roots, emotional delivery, and sophisticated soul arrangements, helping to define the lush, orchestrated sound of Philadelphia soul throughout the 1970s and beyond.[1][2][4]
Later in his career, Sigler returned to his gospel roots, releasing spiritual projects that reflected his lifelong faith. His legacy endures through his influential songwriting, collaborations, and the countless artists who have drawn inspiration from his work. Bunny Sigler passed away in 2017 in his hometown of Philadelphia, leaving behind a rich catalog and a lasting impact on American soul and R&B music.[1][2][3]
Fun Facts
- Bunny Sigler was nicknamed 'Mr. Emotion' for his highly expressive performance style, often crying on stage during songs.[2][4]
- He was the only artist to score hits for both Cameo/Parkway and Philadelphia International, the two biggest Philly labels of their eras.[2]
- Sigler returned to his gospel roots late in his career, releasing a gospel album that featured both spiritual classics and original compositions.[2]
- He was known for practicing martial arts in the hallways of Gamble Huff Productions, which led Kenny Gamble to suggest he focus on songwriting instead.[2]
Associated Acts
- The Salsoul Orchestra
- Instant Funk
- The Young Professionals
- Uri Caine Ensemble
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Mr. and Mrs. Crump - Guided Sigler spiritually and encouraged his church involvement during his youth (N/A) [1950s]
- Leon Huff - Early supporter and collaborator; recommended Sigler to producers and co-produced his debut album (Let the Good Times Roll & Feel So Good) [1960s]
Key Collaborators
- Kenny Gamble - Co-founder of Philadelphia International Records; frequent songwriting and production partner (Numerous Philly soul hits, songwriting for The O'Jays, Patti LaBelle, Instant Funk) [1970s–1980s]
- Leon Huff - Co-founder of Philadelphia International Records; co-producer and pianist on early hits (Let the Good Times Roll & Feel So Good, various Philadelphia International projects) [1960s–1980s]
- Instant Funk - Produced and wrote songs for the band, including their hit "I Got My Mind Made Up" (I Got My Mind Made Up) [1970s]
- Patti LaBelle - Wrote and produced songs for her solo career (Various tracks) [1970s–1980s]
- The O'Jays - Wrote and produced several hits for the group (Various tracks) [1970s]
Artists Influenced
- Countless Philly soul and R&B artists - His songwriting, production, and vocal style helped shape the Philadelphia soul sound, influencing subsequent generations (Philadelphia International Records catalog) [1970s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Game Theory | 2006-08-29 | Album |
| Let The Good Times Roll & (Feel So Good) [Mono Version] | 1967-01-01 | Album |
| Game Theory | 2006-08-29 | Album |
| Game Theory | 2006-08-29 | Album |
| That's How I'll Be Loving You | 1974 | Album |
| Keep Smilin' | 1974 | Album |
| My Music | 1976 | Album |
| Let Me Party With You | 2012-01-31 | Album |
| Let The Good Times Roll & (Feel So Good) [Stereo Version] | 1967-01-01 | Album |
| My Choice | 2021-10-15 | Album |
| The Men in the Glass Booth Compiled by Al Kent | 2016-10-28 | Album |
| Bundino | 2015-05-12 | Album |
| When You're in Love At Christmastime | 2012-11-05 | Album |
| Elements of Sound | 2012-09-07 | Album |
| From Bunny With Love & A Little Soul | 2012-04-17 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Let The Good Times Roll (Feel So Good)
- Girl Don't Make Me Wait
- Let The Good Times Roll & Feel So Good (Let The Good Times Roll & (Feel So Good) [Mono Version])
- Girl Don't Make Me Wait (Let The Good Times Roll & (Feel So Good) [Mono Version])
- Long Time (Game Theory)
- Long Time (Game Theory)
- My Music (My Music)
- That's How Long I'll Be Loving You (That's How I'll Be Loving You)
- Shake Your Booty (Keep Smilin')
- By the Way You Dance (I Knew It Was You) (Larry Levan Remix) ( 2017 - Remaster)
External Links
Tags: #soul
References
Heard on WWOZ
Bunny Sigler has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1, 2025 | 21:03 | Let Me Party With Youfrom Let Me Party With You | Soul Powerw/ Soul Sister |