Teddy Pendergrass is a legendary soul singer known for his powerful and emotive voice, his impeccable songwriting skills, and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep and personal level. With a career spanning over three decades, Pendergrass left an indelible mark on the music world, and his influence can still be felt today in the work of many contemporary artists.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the 10 best Teddy Pendergrass songs of all time, taking a deep dive into his extensive discography to showcase his finest work. From his early days as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes to his solo career as a sex symbol and R&B icon, we’ll be examining the songs that defined Pendergrass’s career and cemented his status as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
Whether you’re a diehard fan or a newcomer to Pendergrass’s music, this article is sure to offer insights and appreciation for the soulful sounds of Teddy Pendergrass. From timeless classics like “Love T.K.O.” to lesser-known gems like “You’re My Latest, Greatest Inspiration,” we’ll be highlighting the best of the best from this iconic artist. So sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported by the soulful stylings of Teddy Pendergrass.
1. Lady Love
“Lady Love” is a classic soul ballad by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1974 as part of his debut solo album, “Teddy Pendergrass”. The song features Pendergrass’s trademark deep and soulful voice, crooning lyrics of adoration and devotion to a special woman in his life. With its lush orchestration, smooth melody, and heartfelt vocals, “Lady Love” quickly became a hit and remains a beloved classic of the soul genre to this day. It’s a romantic and passionate tribute to the power of love, showcasing Pendergrass’s talent as a singer and songwriter.
2. Turn off the Lights
“Turn Off the Lights” is a seductive and sensual R&B song by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1979 as part of his album “Teddy”. The song features Pendergrass’s signature smooth and sultry vocals, accompanied by a slow and steady beat, soft horns, and a funky bassline. The lyrics of the song are an invitation to turn off the lights and get intimate with a lover, making it a classic slow jam that remains popular to this day. “Turn Off the Lights” is a testament to Pendergrass’s ability to create music that is both romantic and passionate, making it a standout track in his extensive discography.
3. Love TKO
“Love TKO” is a timeless soul classic by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1980 as part of his album “TP”. The song features Pendergrass’s powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by a smooth and groovy melody and a catchy chorus that quickly became a fan favorite. The lyrics of the song describe the ups and downs of a tumultuous romantic relationship, with Pendergrass singing about the pain and heartbreak of love gone wrong. “Love TKO” is a testament to Pendergrass’s ability to capture the raw emotions of love and heartbreak in his music, making it a standout track in his illustrious career.
4. Close the Door
“Close the Door” is a romantic and seductive soul ballad by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1978 as part of his album “Life Is a Song Worth Singing”. The song features Pendergrass’s signature smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a slow and sultry melody and a catchy chorus. The lyrics of the song describe a romantic encounter between two lovers, with Pendergrass crooning about the need to close the door and get intimate. “Close the Door” is a testament to Pendergrass’s ability to create music that is both romantic and passionate, making it a classic slow jam that remains popular to this day.
5. In my Video
“In My Video” is an upbeat and funky R&B track by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1985 as part of his album “Workin’ It Back”. The song features Pendergrass’s smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a groovy bassline, electronic drums, and a catchy chorus. The lyrics of the song describe a romantic encounter between two lovers that takes place in a music video, making it a fun and playful track that stands out from Pendergrass’s more slow and soulful ballads. “In My Video” showcases Pendergrass’s versatility as an artist, making it a memorable track in his extensive discography.
6. Can’t we Try?
“Can’t We Try?” is a heartfelt duet by Teddy Pendergrass and singer-songwriter Lisa Fischer, released in 1981 as part of Pendergrass’s album “It’s Time for Love”. The song features Pendergrass’s signature soulful vocals, complemented by Fischer’s smooth and emotive singing. The lyrics of the song describe a couple struggling to keep their relationship alive, with Pendergrass and Fischer trading verses and harmonizing on the chorus. “Can’t We Try?” is a powerful and emotional ballad that showcases the vocal talents of both artists, making it a standout track in Pendergrass’s discography and a classic duet of the R&B genre.
7. I Don’t Love you Anymore
“I Don’t Love You Anymore” is a soulful ballad by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1977 as part of his album “Life Is a Song Worth Singing”. The song features Pendergrass’s powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by a slow and melancholic melody and a heartfelt chorus. The lyrics of the song describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, with Pendergrass singing about falling out of love and moving on. “I Don’t Love You Anymore” is a testament to Pendergrass’s ability to capture the raw emotions of love and heartbreak in his music, making it a standout track in his illustrious career.
8. You can’t Hide from Yourself
“You Can’t Hide From Yourself” is a soulful and funky track by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1977 as part of his album “Teddy Pendergrass”. The song features Pendergrass’s powerful and dynamic vocals, accompanied by a groovy bassline, horns, and a catchy chorus. The lyrics of the song encourage listeners to be true to themselves and face their problems head-on, with Pendergrass urging them to embrace their true selves and not hide behind a facade. “You Can’t Hide From Yourself” is a timeless anthem of self-empowerment and self-acceptance, making it a standout track in Pendergrass’s extensive discography.
9. When Someone Loves you Back
“When Somebody Loves You Back” is a classic R&B love ballad by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1978 as part of his album “Life Is a Song Worth Singing”. The song features Pendergrass’s smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a slow and romantic melody and a memorable chorus. The lyrics of the song describe the joy and fulfillment of being loved in return, with Pendergrass singing about the importance of reciprocated love and affection. “When Somebody Loves You Back” is a timeless love song that showcases Pendergrass’s ability to create music that is both romantic and emotionally powerful, making it a standout track in his extensive discography.
10. It Don’t Hurt Now
“It Don’t Hurt Now” is a soulful ballad by Teddy Pendergrass, released in 1981 as part of his album “TP”. The song features Pendergrass’s powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by a slow and melancholic melody and a heartfelt chorus. The lyrics of the song describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, with Pendergrass singing about how time has healed his wounds and he’s moving on. “It Don’t Hurt Now” is a testament to Pendergrass’s ability to capture the raw emotions of love and heartbreak in his music, making it a standout track in his illustrious career.