The city of Philadelphia paid tribute to the emblematic and native singer of Philadelphia Teddy Pendergrass on Saturday by reversing a section of Broad Street in his honor.
The city has officially announced that the South Broad Street block 400 is also called “Teddy Pendergrass Way”.
Dozens of people were present at the ceremony to recognize the life and heritage of the singer who died in 2010 at the age of 59.
Pendergrass was known for her timeless music as a main singer of Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes and a solo career which included many successes such as “Town off the Lights” and “Love Tko”
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His widow, Joan Pendergrass, said that the change of street name was to come.
“It’s an honor. I am humiliated,” she said. “There are no words to describe what I feel. It was a long trip.”
The street name of the street was also a full circle moment for the Pendergrass family.
Teddy Pendergrass Way is located in the avenue in the Arts district. It is an area where the singer has spent a lot of time. The street is also near the old house of Philadelphia International Records, where the legendary singer has recorded many of his sure strokes.
“Philadelphia meant everything for Teddy Pendergrass,” said Joan Pendergrass. “He was born and grew up in Philadelphia and died in Philadelphia. So Philadelphia was his heart and soul.”
“Teddy has done the words, poetry is one of our lives,” said Cherrelle Parker, mayor of Philadelphia.
Parker said Pendergrass was an inspiration for many. The mayor has recognized his impact by also giving his family the highest distinction that the city could give to the family of a citizen.
“A replica of the Liberty Bell so that the inheritance of your family will forever see freedom here and the honor and respect for the city of Philadelphia in Teddy Pendergrass and your whole family,” she said.
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Pendergrass’s daughter-in-law also spoke during the ceremony, thanking the city for helping to keep her heritage alive.
“Teddy’s story was never only a question of renown, it was resilience, love and truth, and today his name is part of the landscape of the city, so his inheritance continues to guide us,” said Jessica Avila.
