Antonio "Tony" McLendon
Fiercely rooted in gospel music, born in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, and into a family where music was his first language; Tony began his musical journey very early, playing the piano and trombone by the age of 7.
​
Born in Philadelphia into a family where music was their first language, Tony began his musical journey at an early age. By the time he was 7 yrs. old, he was playing the piano and trombone.
​
At the age of 10, Tony received a Christmas present, which would change the course of his musical career, a bass guitar. This gift would become his signature instrument. By the age of 12, he began playing and singing with the family musical group, "The McLendon Family." His parents, Elders Goldwire (Runner Up on BET's Sunday Best Season 3) and Ruth McLendon are the founding members of the legendary Gospel group, "Savettes Choral Group" whose signature song, "Sunshine Follows Rain" is known throughout the Northeast Gospel circuit.
​
During his teenage years, Tony became well known throughout Philadelphia, Southern New Jersey, and the Delaware areas, honing his gift while ministering in the area churches.
Throughout his career, Tony has had the honor of working and performing with legendary singers, James Ingram¸ Martha Munizzi, Tata Vega, Gladys Knight and
Donna Summers. Tony featured on the song “Let There Be Peace” from Donna Summers “Mistaken Identity” CD.
In a surprising moment, at his very first Essence Music Festival, Tony was called out of the audience to sing with legendary songstress, Patti Labelle. Tony has toured extensively with Gospel Music legend André Crouch, featured on “Searching” released by the legendary Ms. Melba Moore, as well as the compilation CD “The Lord’s Prayer”, alongside noted artists such as Tonex, Howard Hewitt, Vanessa Bell Armstrong and many others. Tony is also the voice of Wal-Mart’s “Salute To Those Who Have Made History” commercial, celebrating Black History (2013).
Collectively, these works reveal Tony’s commitment, passion and ultimate purpose as a musician, artist and self-proclaimed Life-Spirational artist.
“Love is my foundation and focus...The unforgettable feeling that cuts through. No matter the genre.”