The Three Degrees

BIOGRAPHY

The Three Degrees

Published: 2025

The Three Degrees, an iconic female trio that emerged from Philadelphia in 1963, originally signed to Swan Records, quickly became a force in soul and R&B music. Their breakthrough came in 1970 with the soulful hit “Maybe” under Roulette Records. In 1973, they joined the legendary Philadelphia International Records label, where their signature style and dynamic stage presence elevated them to stardom. With production from the acclaimed duo Gamble & Huff, they delivered a string of unforgettable songs, including “Year of Decision,” “Take Good Care of Yourself,” “Dirty Ol’ Man,” and the Grammy-winning anthem “TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia),” recorded with MFSB. Their global appeal soared with the release of “When Will I See You Again,” which became a timeless classic across continents.

In the late ’70s, they reinvented their sound with hitmaker Giorgio Moroder, releasing a new wave of disco-inspired tracks like “Giving Up, Giving In,” “The Runner,” “Woman in Love,” and “My Simple Heart” through Ariola Records. Their remarkable journey includes a personal performance for Prince Charles’ 30th birthday and the rare honor of attending the royal wedding celebration of Prince Charles and Princess Diana. Still going strong after decades in the spotlight, The Three Degrees—now made up of original member Helen Scott, along with Skyler Jordan and Tamika Peoples hold the distinction of being the longest-performing female vocal group in music history, continuing to delight fans with their legendary sound and enduring grace.

Janet Harmon, Fayette Pinkney , Helen Scott in 1963

Valerie Holiday, Fayette Pinkney, and Sheila Ferguson 1967-1976.

Valerie Holiday, Sheila Ferguson, and Helen Scott

Valerie Holiday, Helen Scott, and Cynthia Garrison 1990-2010

Helen Scott Biography

Vocalist, Member of The Three Degrees

Helen Scott is an American singer best known as a longstanding member of the internationally acclaimed female vocal group, The Three Degrees. Renowned for their rich harmonies, glamour, and soulful sound, The Three Degrees is widely regarded as one of the longest-running female vocal groups in history, with hits spanning decades, and Helen Scott has been central to that legacy.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Helen began her musical journey at a young age, growing up in a city rich in soul and R&B heritage. In 1963, she became one of the original members of The Three Degrees, alongside Fayette Pinkney and Janet Harmon. However, Helen initially left the group in 1966 to focus on family life.

Her return in 1976 marked a pivotal moment, as she rejoined just after the group's international chart-topping success with songs like When Will I See You Again, Year of Decision, and Take Good Care of Yourself — hits which had helped cement their status as soul royalty. Helen replaced original member Fayette Pinkney, and joined Valerie Holiday and Sheila Ferguson in what became the group's most successful and iconic line-up. Her voice can be heard on disco-inspired tracks like “Giving Up, Giving In,” “The Runner,” “Woman in Love,” and “My Simple Heart” through Ariola Records.

Helen has remained a constant force in The Three Degrees from 1976 onwards, through various line-up changes. Her smooth contralto voice, poise, and stage presence have made her a fan favourite across generations. She has performed for royalty (notably Prince Charles, who famously named them his favourite group), toured the globe, and helped carry the trio through the disco era, ballad-heavy revivals, and beyond.

In addition to her work with the group, Helen has lent her talents to charitable causes and musical outreach, reflecting her deep roots in both gospel and community-based music initiatives.

As of today, Helen Scott continues to perform with The Three Degrees, alongside Skyler Jordan and Tamika Peoples, preserving the legacy of classic Philadelphia soul and inspiring new audiences with every performance.