Biography
Philadelphia's early R&B scene included the Cordells among its pathbreaking acts, together with the original Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes, the Dreamlovers, and comparable ensembles. Jimmy Ellis sang lead, Earl Young played bass, and Val Walker and Russell Boston completed the roster, with every member coming from the Broad & Lehigh neighborhood in North Philly. The quartet first entered a studio in 1958 to cut "Please Don't Go" backed with "Believe in Me" for Bullseye Records. Another chance did not arrive until 1961, when Bargain Records issued "The Best of My Heart" coupled with "Laid Off." Those sides attracted only localized radio play. The singers continued performing at area venues and gradually earned a modest following in town, yet wider attention never materialized. Later that same year Ellis, Young, Walker, and Boston re-formed as the Whirlwinds and placed singles on Guyden and Phillips Records. After repeated attempts, Ellis and Young eventually gained limited success inside the Trammps, whose landmark disco recording "Disco Inferno" became their calling card. Young also developed into a busy session bassist, working alongside Ron Baker and Norman Harris in the trio Baker, Harris, & Young.
Albums