Black History, People you should know

I know that its February 12, but so what! I know you all heard of better late than never. Today's person you should know is Tammi Terrell, most known for her duets with R&B legend Marvin Gaye. THOMASINA "TAMMI" MONTGOMERY TERRELL was born April 29, 1945, in Philadelphia, PA. At 16 she signed to Scepter Records, where she recorded under the name Tammy Montgomery. From there Tammy came across the attention of James Brown and recorded a single under his "Try Me" label. Tammy also signed to Checker Records before Motown Founder Barry Gordy signed her. Tammi signed with Motown Records in 1965 at the age of 20. At Motown is where Tammy went from Tammy Montgomery to Tammi Terrell. At. Motown Records is where Tammi met her boyfriend David Ruffin. Ruffin and Tammi continued their relationship until her untimely death.

In 1967 Terrel recorded her first duet with Marvin Gaye, and from their her success grew. Songwriters Ashford & Simpson penned hits for the duo including Ain't nothing like the real thing, Ain't no mountain high enough, You're all I need to get by.
During a performance in October 1967 at Hampden Sydney College she collapsed in Marvin's arm. Tammi was rushed to a hospital and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. As Tammi health deteriorated, Valerie Simpson recorded Tammi vocals for her on her last recording Marvin titled "Easy". Tammi under went eight surgeries to with failed attempts to save her life. Despite surgeries her tumor continued to grow.



March 16,1970 Tammi Terrell died at 24. Her death was contributed to brain tumors. Gaye was so devastated by her decline and eventual passing that he retired from the road for three years; her loss also contributed greatly to the spiritual turmoil which informed his 1971 masterpiece What's Going On.

In honor of paying it forward here's Beyonce and Justin Timberlake at 2008 Fashion's Rock performing "Ain't nothing like the real thing"