The music world is mourning the loss of a legend. Major news outlets reported late Wednesday night that legendary Grammy nominated R&B singer/songwriter, Teddy Pendergrass, passed away in Philadelphia where he was being hospitalized at Bryn Mawr Hospital. He was 59.

Pendergrass had suffered from numerous medical complications since a devastating car accident in 1982, which left him paralyzed from the waist down and confined to a wheelchair.Pendergrass founded the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance, a non-profit organization invested in raising funds, support, and awareness for persons impacted by spinal cord injuries. Pendergrass rose to fame as the lead singer of Harold Marvin and the Blues Notes before embarking upon a successful solo career in the late 70′s, becoming the first Black male R&B singer in history to record five consecutive multi-platinum albums.

Teddy Pendergrass was a master at making you consciously aware of social issues while allowing a little lovemaking on the side. His smooth and soulful vocals were distinctive as heard throughout his powerful love ballads and emotional testaments.  Also affectionately known as “Teddy P” by his fans, Pendergrass had a string of hits in which he taught us about “Love TKO,” how to “Close the Door” and to “Turn Off the Lights.” But he also went beyond the bedroom with his music with inspirational hits like, “Joy,” “Love is the Power,” and “Wake Up Everybody.”

Pendergrass greatly influenced many of today’s male R&B artists, including Jaheim, T-Pain, and Trey Songz, and his music has been sampled throughout R&B and hip-hop. Without any doubt, he will be greatly missed as his music will continue to live on for many years to come. May he Rest in Power.

DrJays.com Live sends our deepest condolences to Teddy Pendergrass’ family as we are forever thankful for the betterment his music has permeated throughout the industry and the world.

Join us as we kick back, relax and reminisce to the sounds of the late, the great “Teddy P:”

Image: NME

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