Layne Kendig

Keys, Vocals & (formerly) Sax

AKA – Nickname(s): Q, Dinsdale Hedgehog

Band member since:
March 1979 to May 1985, January 1986 to August 1986, and now fill-in keyboardist (is that even a word?) when necessary.

The primary function I serve in the band was as:
Early years – shared responsibility of providing and transporting the Shure Vocal Master with Kurt, played keyboards, created various melodic (my opinion only) sounds with my saxophone, played harmonica, prepared set lists, pilfered political signs, drove the truck, sang a bit, and concocted many drinks with very high concentrations of rum! I was one of the original 8 and often claim to have provided the name of the band while watching Treasure Island, although this has been disputed by the other members of the band. I left the band in 1986 and was initially replaced by Joe Lazar and then Mike Butzbach and presently Pat Rehmer. I occasionally fill in for Pat and maintain involvement with the band helping with reunions and fundraisers. I endorse Korg keyboards and Hammond organs.

I can also fumble my way through:
I tend to fumble through just about any song I attempt to play.

I started playing music when I was:
Sax 5th grade, piano 9th grade…still wish I took lessons…and so does everybody else!

I started playing music because:
It was a great way to meet girls … at least in 9th grade and in Daytona Beach it was!

Besides POE, I currently perform and/or have performed in these other bands:
Before POE there were numerous garage bands in Wickliffe, Eastlake and Willowick, the most memorable being “Destiny” with Glenn Turk, Randy Cumos, Matt Henderlick and my brother Kurt!

Music is a fun hobby, but in real life:
I prefer that my co-workers never find out about my sordid past so I have chosen to leave this blank.

Outside of performing with the band, I have a life. In my personal life:
I am completely devoted to my kids and grandchildren and enjoy watching my children become adults and great parents.

When not performing in a band I like:
To travel, read, listen to music, go hiking, and find ways to avoid yard-work!

My thoughts on Pieces of Eight are:
What a great way to have spent my teen and young adult years and who threw that corncob?

My favorite band related saying is:
“morning bats … that’s all we need”

My favorite memory of being in the band over the years is probably:
The first trip and week spent in Daytona Beach. Somehow I’m able to remember every detail of that week…although I don’t ever remember having breakfast, lunch or dinner the entire time we were in Daytona … anybody have any more Malibu???

Oh, I almost forgot, I wanted to add:
These guys are the best friends anyone could ever wish for and Layne endorses Korg keyboards and Hammond organs although neither endorse Layne