Happy birthday to the late Eddie Kendricks of the Temptations, born December 17, 1939.
Eddie Kendricks was a cornerstone of soul music and an integral member of the legendary Temptations. Known for his unmistakable falsetto, Kendricks helped shape the sound of Motown and influenced generations of artists and fans alike. Today, we honor his legacy and lasting impact on music.
The Temptations: Redefining Soul Music
The Temptations revolutionized soul music in the 1960s with their signature five-part harmonies, sharp choreography, and polished stage presence. Their influence is undeniable, with countless soul groups citing them as inspiration. Eddie Kendricks stood out with his soaring falsetto, leading hits like “The Way You Do the Things You Do” and the timeless “Just My Imagination.”
Despite the group’s success, Kendricks left the Temptations in 1971 amidst internal conflicts, beginning a solo journey that would further cement his place in music history.
Solo Career and Disco Stardom
Kendricks faced challenges early in his solo career, with initial releases struggling to chart. However, his 1972 album, People… Hold On, became a favorite in New York’s burgeoning disco scene. This laid the foundation for his breakout hit, “Keep on Truckin’,” a #1 pop sensation in 1973 that sold over one million copies.
Kendricks continued to produce hits, including “Boogie Down” (#2), “Son of Sagittarius” (#28), and “Shoeshine Boy” (#18). His 1977 track “Intimate Friends” has been widely sampled by modern artists like Alicia Keys, Common, and Erykah Badu, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Challenges and a Resilient Spirit
In 1978, Kendricks left Motown, sacrificing his royalties for creative freedom. Despite signing with Arista and later Atlantic Records, his popularity waned. His voice, strained by years of chain smoking, began to falter.
A brief reunion with the Temptations in 1982 brought Kendricks and David Ruffin back together for a tour and album, though health issues began to take their toll. By the late 1980s, Kendricks collaborated with Ruffin and Dennis Edwards, forming a group of former Temptations leads.
Honoring a Legacy
Eddie Kendricks, along with the Temptations, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. Despite a lung cancer diagnosis in 1991, Kendricks continued to perform until his health declined. He passed away on October 5, 1992, in Birmingham, Alabama, at the age of 52.
Kendricks’s contributions to music remain timeless, from his soulful hits with the Temptations to his disco-era classics. His voice, artistry, and influence live on in the work of countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from his legacy.
