On this day March 18 1982 R&B singer Teddy Pendergrass was involved in a devastating car accident in Philadelphia that left him paralyzed from the chest down. The accident occurred when his Rolls-Royce crashed into a guardrail after the brakes reportedly failed.
At the time Pendergrass was one of the biggest R&B stars known for his powerful voice and hits like Close the Door and Love T.K.O. Despite his paralysis he continued his music career inspiring many with his resilience and determination.
80s insight: Teddy Pendergrass made a triumphant return to the stage at Live Aid in 1985 marking his first performance after the accident.