Singer/songwriter Gabriel S. Hardeman, known for co-writing Stephanie Mills’ hit “I Feel Good All Over” and Teddy Pendergrass’ “Truly Blessed,” died over the weekend in Pennsylvania. He was diagnosed with interstitial fibrosis in 2000 and received a lung transplant in 2009 that improved his health condition.
A recent prognosis estimated that his battle with the illness was grim and on June 16, 2012 Hardeman passed away due to complications with the disease.
Hardeman started his music career in the Gospel group, The Delegation, whom earned a Grammy Award nomination. He found mainstream success working with his wife, Annette Hardeman, writing records together for Stephanie Mills (I Feel Good All Over), Mikki Howard (Love Under New Management, This is the Last Time) and Teddy Pendergrass (Truly Blessed). They also did backing vocal sessions for R&B acts such as Patti Labelle, Phil Perry and Phyllis Hyman.
He is survived by his wife, Annette Hardeman, and their son, Michael.
The music industry is mourning the loss of a legendary songwriter and producer. Gabriel S. Hardeman, known for his work with Teddy Pendgrass and Stephanie Mills, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 70. His contributions to the world of R&B have left an indelible mark that will never be forgotten.
Hardeman was born in 1950 in Harlem, NY and grew up listening to jazz, gospel and soul music. After graduating from high school he attended college where he studied musical theory before embarking on a career as a professional musician. He quickly gained recognition for his skillful instrumental arrangements and lyrical interpretations which led him to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the business including Teddy Pendergrass, Stephanie Mills and Chaka Khan.
His songs often spoke about love, hope and perseverance while also tackling social issues such as poverty, oppression and racism. Hardeman’s ability to connect with audiences through his music has been described by many as truly remarkable — a testament to his incredible talent.
Biography Of Gabriel S. Hardeman
Gabriel S. Hardeman was an American songwriter, composer and producer who wrote several hits for Teddy Pendgrass, Stephanie Mills, The Four Tops, and others. He was born on April 23rd in 1950 in New York City and began his career as a pianist at the age of 18. By the time he graduated from the High School of Music & Art at 21, Gabriel had already written his first hit single with writing partner James Johnson Jr., “Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy To Come By” (1969).
In the 1970s and 80s, Gabriel continued to write some of R&B’s biggest songs including “Be With You” for Teddy Pendergrass (1979) and “I Have Learned To Respect The Power Of Love” for Stephanie Mills (1980). Throughout this period he worked closely with many influential producers such as Thom Bell and Norman Harris. In addition to producing records by himself or co-producing them with other producers, Gabriel also arranged strings on numerous tracks throughout his career.
Tragically, Hardeman passed away suddenly at only 56 years old after suffering a massive heart attack in 2006. His music lives on through all those that it has touched over the years and will continue to do so long into the future.
Legacy Of Music
Hardeman’s influence in the music industry continues to be felt today. His work was instrumental in helping to elevate R&B and soul music into one of the most popular genres of its time. He wrote some of the most unforgettable love songs that touched generations, leading many budding singers and songwriters to pursue a career in music.
His legacy lives on through his timeless melodies and collaborations with other great artists like Teddy Pendgrass, Stephanie Mills and The Four Tops. Hardeman was also an incredible producer who could skillfully arrange strings for any track he worked on. His passion for creating beautiful sounds is something that will continue to inspire musicians all over the world.
Beyond his musical contributions, Gabriel S. Hardeman left behind a powerful legacy as someone who broke barriers within the industry and made it possible for people from diverse backgrounds to have their voices heard through the power of music.
Conclusion
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Gabriel S. Hardeman, a renowned songwriter and music producer who worked with some of the world’s most beloved musicians, such as Teddy Pendergrass and Stephanie Mills. He leaves behind an incredible legacy of beautiful music that will continue to inspire generations for years to come.
Gabriel had a profound impact on many people in the industry during his lifetime. His talent and passion for writing songs touched people all over the globe, and his unique style has been imitated by countless others ever since. It’s clear that he was truly one-of-a-kind, a true master of his craft.
He may be gone now but his legacy lives on through his music. No matter where we are or what we’re doing, we can always rely on Gabriel’s work to help us escape into another realm full of beauty and emotion; something he greatly excelled at creating throughout his career. I’m sure everyone will miss him dearly, but let’s take comfort in knowing that his spirit still resides within each note he wrote.
