It is a somber day for the world of soul music. Last night, iconic singer Teddy Pendergdrass, died at Philadelphipa’s Bryn Mawr Hospital at the age of 59. The singer’s son, Teddy Pendergrass II, reports that his father endured a difficult recovery following surgery for colon cancer eight months ago.

Pendergrass was a definitive sex symbol in the late 70s and early 80s for his romantic ballads sung his his husky alto, and his catalog included timeless hits “Come Go With Me,” “Close the Door” and “Turn Off the Lights.”

His musical beginnings found their roots in the church in his hometown of Philly. After leaving the Thomas Edison High School for Boys in 11th grade to pursue a music career, he became the drummer for The Cadillacs. The group later evolved into Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, where Pendergrass received his first major exposure.

Pendergrass’ solo career was launched in 1977 with his self-titled debut album that featured the hit “I Don’t Love You Anymore.” Five years later he was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Heaven Only Knows, released in 1983, became the last album to contain recordings from the singer before his accident.

Pendergrass did not let his condition extinguish his desire to record great music, and continued to release albums until 2004. He announced his retirement from the music industry in 2006. The following year, he was inducted into the Spinal Cord Injury Association Hall of Fame, recognized as one of the most influential SCI activists, leading forces with his non-profit organization, the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance.

In 2007, Pendergrass returned to the stage for Teddy 25: A Celebration of Life, Hope & Possibilities, a 25th anniversary awards ceremony that marked his accident date, raised money for his charity and recognized the people who supported him after his accident.

He leaves behind a catalog of timeless singles and duets including “Love T.K.O.,” “Hold Me” (with Whitney Houston), “Joy,” “Two Hearts” (with Stephanie Mills) and “It Should’ve Been You,” which topped the R&B charts in 1991. – Quia Querisma