Diversity
R&B singer and disability advocate, Teddy Pendergrass dies
Fri, 01/15/2010 - 20:57 — Patty
By Patty Edwards Shaver
MCV Career Development Facilitator
Teddy Pendergrass, legendary Rhythm and Blues (R&B) singer and advocate for the disabled, died Jan.13 of colon cancer. Pendergrass had been hospitalized for several months after undergoing colon cancer surgery in May 2009. He was 59.
Pendergrass’ music career started to take off in the 70s. He was lead singer with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes before embarking on a solo career in 1976. He quickly became an international superstar and sex symbol with popular hit records: Turn off the Lights, Close the Door and TKO. Pendergrass became the first black male singer in history to record five consecutive multi-platinum albums. He had several Grammy nominations, numerous awards, movie appearances, TV specials, sold out national and international concerts and endorsements.
