PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Bernie Wilson, baritone member of the rhythm and blues group that produced the 1972 hit “If You Don’t Know Me by Now,” has died.
Wilson’s cousin, Faith Peace-Mazzccua, (Mah-ZOO-Kah) said Monday that 64-year-old Wilson died shortly after midnight on the day after Christmas at Kresson View Center in Voorhees, NJ., following a stroke and a heart attack.
Philadelphia International Records says Wilson was part of the lineup that produced a string of hits in the 70s that helped define the Sound of Philadelphia. The group’s 1972 song “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” topped the R&B charts and made the top five on the pop charts.
His cousin said Wilson kept performing until a few years ago and hoped to return and sing gospel music.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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