R&B vocal trio originated in the Somerset Projects in East Baltimore. Members of the group were Kevin Pollard (2nd tenor lead, baritone, and bass), Yolanda ‘Landy’ Gurate (alto and contralto lead), and Tony Edwards (1st tenor lead and 2nd tenor).
While still teenagers the Kendells were introduced to manager and promoter Lou Karpouzie whose group the Sound Track was in need of vocalists. In 1971 the Kendells became the front vocal group for the Sound Track Band (see bio).
The Kendells unique vocal style was a cross between the Temptations, O’Jays and Gladys Knight. Each member could sing lead, and often did. Kevin (2nd tenor lead, 2nd tenor, baritone and some 1st tenor background) sounded like Eddie Levert, Landy (alto/contralto lead, 1st tenor & 2nd tenor background) sounded like Gladys Knight, and Tony (1st tenor lead, 1st Tenor, 2nd tenor and some baritone background) sounded like Marvin Brown of the Softones and Damon Harris of the Temptations. They performed covers of contemporary R&B songs of the times (1970s-1983).
The group also recorded original compositions as demos but were never released.
and Tony Edwards ‘Tunjii Mwamba’ – Photo courtesy of Olatunji Mwamba (Tunji)
Tony went on to do some studio work with members of Impact during the ‘80s. Since retiring from performing, he converted to Islam and changed his name to Muhammad Olatunji Mwamba and also became a Police Officer with The State of Maryland (DGS). Kevin and Yolanda married each other and became Muslims as well, and changed their names to Kashaka and Sauda Olukayode.
Kashaka and Sauda later formed the group Classic Revue circa 1983-1988. In the ‘00s they owned a karaoke company called K-Jams.
