 The pair set out to form a vocal group from the ranks of his students, hoping to cash in on the new trend of vocal quintets in R&B.The group was at first called the Ques, composed of Clyde McPhatter (lead tenor), whom Ward recruited after McPhatter won "Amateur Night" at the Apollo Theater, Charlie White (tenor), Joe Lamont (baritone), and Bill Brown (bass).Ward acted as their pianist and arranger.