Teddy Pendergrass - "If You Don't Know Me By Now (feat. Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes)"

In honor of Black History Month all of February’s posts will feature black artists and artists of color.

His voice was smooth and velvety, and with that charismatic smile and soulful eyes he was able to both sooth and heat up listeners. He had a truly unique talent that allowed him to lead his audiences on a journey through his music. When Teddy sang, you listened.

Theodore DeReese Pendergrass (March 26, 1950 – January 13, 2010) was an American singer. Born in Philadelphia at Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Pendergrass was raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He initially rose to musical fame as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes. After leaving the group over monetary disputes in 1976, Pendergrass launched a successful solo career under the Philadelphia International label, releasing five consecutive platinum albums, a record at the time for an African-American R&B artist. Pendergrass's career was suspended after a March 1982 car crash left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. Pendergrass continued his successful solo career until announcing his retirement in 2007. Pendergrass died from respiratory failure in January 2010.

So today, with trust that the right path is opening unto me, I choose Teddy Pendergrass’ "If You Don't Know Me By Now (feat. Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes)" as my, lift your head up, the crown is already on your head, yours is the world and all that’s in it, song for a, follow the light, build your bridges, forge your own path, Friday.