Released in 1970, "In Philadelphia" marked a shift in Wilson Pickett's sound by incorporating the orchestral soul style of Philadelphia. Sessions took place at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, with arrangements by Bobby Martin and Lenny Pakula.
Produced by Jerry Wexler, Tom Dowd, and Arif Mardin, the album includes the hit "Engine Number 9" and a cover of "Sugar, Sugar" by The Archies. The collaboration with Philly Soul session musicians, including members of MFSB, gave it a more polished sound.
The album reached number 4 on Billboard's R&B chart and number 64 on the pop chart. Although it did not repeat the massive success of his earlier work, it is valued for its transition into a more sophisticated soul with string arrangements.