GARTH BROOKS to perform in Philadelphia on Independence Day

Tuesday, June 5th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) _ Country star Garth Brooks will take a break from retirement to perform at an Independence Day celebration in Philadelphia produced for television by Norman Lear.

Brooks will sing ``a couple of songs appropriate for the occasion,'' and join other celebrities, including actors Mel Gibson and Morgan Freeman, read the Declaration of Independence, Brooks' spokeswoman Karen Byrd said Tuesday.

Brooks announced his retirement last year, but the Oklahoma singer said he wanted to complete a few projects first. That includes a new album that may be released this year.

The gala in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art will include fireworks, a military band, a 75-voice choir, and singer Jill Scott.