About the song
Teddy Pendergrass’s soulful ballad “Love T.K.O.” stands as a definitive example of his ability to blend smooth vocals with heartfelt lyrics, capturing the essence of love and heartache. Released in 1980 as part of his album “TP,” this song remains a timeless classic in the realm of R&B music.
Written by the acclaimed songwriting team of Cecil Womack, Gip Noble Jr., and Linda Womack, “Love T.K.O.” delves into the complexities of romantic relationships with poignant honesty. The lyrics depict the emotional turmoil of a love that has faltered despite one’s best efforts, resonating deeply with listeners through Teddy Pendergrass’s soulful delivery.
Upon its release, “Love T.K.O.” achieved significant success on the charts, reaching number two on the Billboard R&B chart and number 44 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its popularity solidified Teddy Pendergrass’s reputation as a leading figure in R&B music during the 1980s, known for his distinctive voice and ability to convey emotion through his music.
Within the song, Teddy Pendergrass’s vocal performance is powerful and evocative, conveying a sense of vulnerability and resilience in equal measure. The song’s smooth groove and lush instrumentation complement his vocals, creating a captivating listening experience that has stood the test of time.
Beyond its chart achievements, “Love T.K.O.” has been covered and sampled by various artists, further cementing its status as a classic in the R&B genre. Its inclusion in retrospectives of Teddy Pendergrass’s career highlights its enduring popularity and influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
For fans of soulful ballads and heartfelt storytelling, “Love T.K.O.” remains a poignant reminder of Teddy Pendergrass’s musical legacy and his ability to touch hearts with his soul-stirring voice. It continues to resonate with audiences, affirming its place among the greatest R&B songs of its era.
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Lyrics
Lookin’ back over my years
I guessed, I’ve shedded some tears
Told myself time and time again
This time I’m gonna win
But another fight, things ain’t right
I’m losin’ again
Takes a fool to lose twice
And start all over again
Think I’d better let it go
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Think I’d better let it go, let it go, baby
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Tried to take control of the love
Love took control of me
‘Cause you lose all thoughts, sense of time
And have a change of mind
Takin’ the bumps and the bruises
Of all the things of a two-time loser
Just tryin’ to hold on, faith is gone
It’s just another sad song
I think I’d better let it go
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Yes, I think I’d better let it go, let it go, baby
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Tried to take control of the love
Love took control of me
‘Cause you lose all thoughts, sense of time
And have a change of mind
Takin’ the bumps and the bruises
Of all the things of a two-time loser
See I try to hold on, my faith is gone
It’s just another sad song
And I think I’d better let it go
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Think I’d better let it go, if I know what’s good for you, baby
Looks like another love T.K.O.
I couldn’t stand this pain much longer
Think I’d better let it go, let it go, baby
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Oh, sometimes, sometimes I just feel like I wanna say, I wanna say
‘Cause it looks like another love T.K.O.
Tired of gettin’ beat up by love
Think I’d better let it go, let it go, baby
Looks like another love T.K.O
Think I’d better let it go
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Think I’d better let it go, let it go, baby
Looks like another love T.K.O.
Oh, they say love is better the second time around
Think I’d better let it go
Looks like another love T.K.O.
I think I’d better let it go