Teddy Pendergrass, When Somebody Loves You Back | Throwback Vibez

In the 183^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “When Somebody Loves You Back” by Teddy Pendergrass.

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 183^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “When Somebody Loves You Back” performed by Teddy Pendergrass.  

As expected from Gamble & Huff, the production work is sleek and exquisite. The sound palette is colorful, representative of the lush, symphonic brand of 1970s soul.  Among the instrumentation is the standard rhythm section – keys, guitar, bass, drums, and percussion – and orchestra, featuring strings prominently. There are plenty of memorable riffs upping the ante.  The star of the show, fueled by five-star accompaniment, is Teddy Pendergrass.  His vocals are dynamic, and he seems to give his all with each and every note.  He brings the memorable, love-centric songwriting to life. “To be loved and be loved in return / It’s the only thing that my heart desires,” TP sings in the first verse, and adds, “Oh, you’re the one who’s got me inspired / Keep on liftin’, liftin’ me higher.” Word.  In the second verse, he expresses, “We can build a world of love, a life of joy / Make our goal each other’s happiness.” Oh, the feels! The chorus is crème de la crème – the centerpiece!

“So good, good lovin’ somebody

When somebody loves you back

It’s so good needin’ somebody

When somebody loves you back.”

“When Somebody Loves You Back” features tuneful melodies from start to finish, with the chorus, once more, being the crowning achievement. The mostly spoken word outro is notable too, with Teddy continuing to focus on L-O-V-E (“I think we’ve got something that a lot of people don’t seem to have / Talkin’ ‘bout a 50-50 love, yeah”). Another impactful song from TP, “When Somebody Loves You Back” showcases just how gifted, talented, and soulful this legend was.