The Cadets

Recording under alternate identities for distinct labels distinguished this ensemble from the western United States, which appeared as the Jacks on Modern sessions and as the Cadets on RPM. Originally formed as a gospel quartet in Los Angeles during the late 1940s, the group featured an initial roster of Ted Taylor, Aaron Collins, Lloyd McCraw, and Will Jones. Among the more popular acts specializing in R&B covers, the Cadets scored their sole hit with “Stranded in the Jungle,” cut for Modern under the Jacks name in 1956; the track reached number eight on the R&B chart and number 15 pop. Davis and Collins later became members of the Flares in 1961, whereas Taylor achieved individual recognition as a blues, soul, and gospel singer. Jones entered the Coasters in 1958, staying with the group for more than ten years. Collins’ sisters Betty and Rose also cut sides for Modern/RPM under the name the Teen Queens.