Watch Teddy Pendergrass: If You Don't Know Me

Teddy Pendergrass: If You Don't Know Me is a captivating and emotional documentary film that chronicled the life of one of the most beloved R&B singers of all time – Teddy Pendergrass. Directed by Olivia Lichtenstein, the film delves deep into the life of the legendary icon, who passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

The movie opens up with the early years of Teddy Pendergrass, a young man who came from humble beginnings in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was the son of a single mother who worked hard to provide for him and his siblings. Despite the odds, Teddy grew up to be a charismatic and ambitious young man, with a passion for music and a strong voice that captivated audiences.

Throughout the film, we learn about the defining moments of Teddy's career, from his early days singing with various groups, to his breakout success as the lead vocalist of Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes. The movie offers rare glimpses into the behind-the-scenes moments of his life, including footage of him recording his first solo album, Teddy, which featured the hit song, "Close The Door".

Teddy's rise to fame was not without its challenges, however. In the 1980s, he was involved in a tragic car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite the setback, Teddy managed to make a remarkable comeback, demonstrating a resilience and determination that inspired countless fans around the world.

The film also explores Teddy's personal life, including the highs and lows of his romantic relationships. While he had a string of high-profile love affairs with some of the most beautiful women in show business, including Stephanie Mills and Joan Collins, Teddy was also a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Karen. Through interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues, we get a sense of the kind of man Teddy was – a gentle, caring soul with a passion for life and an infectious joy that radiated through his music.

The documentary also features a wealth of archival footage of some of Teddy's performances, including his historic concert at London's Hammersmith Odeon in 1982, which cemented his status as one of the greatest live performers of his generation. The footage is interspersed with personal reflections from some of Teddy's closest friends, including Sammy Davis Jr. and Ida Pendergrass, his mother.

In conclusion, Teddy Pendergrass: If You Don't Know Me is a must-see documentary for anyone who loves R&B music and wants to learn more about the life of one of its greatest pioneers. Whether you're a die-hard fan or someone who may be discovering Teddy Pendergrass for the first time, this movie offers a touching and heartfelt tribute to an artist whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Teddy Pendergrass: If You Don't Know Me is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.