The Chicago-based Sheppards created a marvellous transitional style of R&B during the early '60s, drawing much of its character from earlier doo-wop, yet incorporating instrumentation and vocal stylings that in later years would inform soul music. Formed in 1959, the Sheppards were named after their producer Bill ‘Bunky’ Sheppard. The members were lead and bass Millard Edwards, lead and top tenor Murrie Eskridge, baritone Jimmy Allen, bass and fifth tenor James Dennis Isaac, second tenor O.C. Perkins and guitarist Kermit Chandler. The group’s most famous song was the doo-wop ballad ‘Island Of Love’ (1959), but later tracks included ‘The Glitter In Your Eyes’ (1961) and ‘Tragic’ (1962).