Marvin vs. Teddy...

[TGrundy]

Marvin Gaye OR Teddy Pendergrass?

OK... time to stop playing around with this Motown vs. TSOP discussion. I've been mulling this one over for a week now and it's time to have the master showdown. These two were the top two crooners, showmen, vocalists, stylists, make-the-ladies-swoon-at-the-very-first-note, (whatever adjective you want to use) singers at their respective music labels. I want know who you would choose and why. Hmmmm, is it gonna be too close to call or a runaway victory?

[Odeessey]

Both are so excellent but I have to admit.... Im so in love with Marvin's background and harmony. Anyone who sings or likes to harmonize can really appreciate that aspect of his work and that is DEFINETLY one of his specialties.

[D'Nas Productions]

hands down, its gotta be marvin. his musical creativity, lyrical content and vocal dexterity by far out shined most of the singers in his day and still to this day, including teddy p. its really an unfair contest when marvin is in the picture- he is the excption to the rule. the masses pale in comparison and the few barely scratch the surface in light of his skill and vocal stylings. simply put, he is untouchable, truly in a league of his own....

[Nigel Christopher]

That's an easy one. Marvin, by far. The history, the smoothness of his voice and his appeal beats out TP. Don't get me wrong TP's voice MADE you want to get familiar, but song for song, hit for hit, Marvin is the one.

[STEPHANIE RENEE]

This is an easy call for me, even though I live in Philly. TP had his strength, but I prefer finesse...and Marvin had that battle won, hands down. Despite (or perhaps, because of) his personal struggles, Marvin's message strikes me as more universal.

[Malikah]

Marvin. Hands down.

[NubianMonarch]

No question- it's Marvin. His music reflected everything that occurred in the world as well as his personal life. As dark and realistic his album "What's Going On" was, I considered it one of the greatest soul albums ever made.

[Shai Shahar]

I agree..and I'd even drop the qualifier..it was one of the greatest albums ever made. period.
;-)

[Clyde Anderson]

I have to agree with you but Teddy was my teacher. Marvin wins hands down.

[Aamir]

Marvin. His depth, musicality, creativity and jus down right smoothness is legendary. Teddy had good moments, don't get me wrong. But 'Here My Dear' puts many an album to shame.

[Artluv]

Marvin Marvin Marvin Not only did he sing the songs he also wrote them, orchestrated them and in the words of Frankie Beverly he was a Silky Soul Singer,

[Shai Shahar]

Another Philly kid checks in with Respects for Teddy ...but a vote for Marvin.
besides what all the other folks say here I believe Marvin was a musical and composing Genius..but beyond the mere scope of his talent he was socially conscious in lyrics and choice of song..as well as being absolutely larger than life on stage and off.
Yes..Teddy was a showman and his credits are rightfully deserved...a tremendous performer, ladies man..a man of style
and exceeding talent. But Marvin..well Marvin is eternal..he crossed over and over, still sounds as fresh a this morning.
He made us all wanna sing along..his melodies are woven into the fabric of American culture.and they stand the test of time. His hits are known and played in Thailand, S.Africa, and places where, unfortunately they still haven't heard much of the phenomenal Mr. Pendergrass. Hey, but that's just the way it is, I guess.

[TGrundy]

Ha! Well... that was certainly a slam dunk. Marvin by a landslide. Not unexpected, but I really did enjoy everyone's explanations and comparisons.