Tony Orlando & Dawn - Candida Online

In 1970, Tony Orlando was working as a music publishing manager for . When producers Hank Medress and Dave Appell asked him to record "Candida," he initially refused, fearing the session would be a conflict of interest with his employer. He eventually agreed to record the track under the condition that he would not be credited. Consequently, the single was released under the name "Dawn" —a moniker chosen to protect Orlando's corporate job. Song Composition and Success

: While Orlando sang lead, the original recording featured background vocals by Toni Wine , Jay Siegel , Sharon Greene , and Linda November . The iconic female backing duo of Telma Hopkins and Joyce Vincent Wilson joined the group only after the song became a hit to form the official touring trio. TONY ORLANDO & DAWN - CANDIDA

: The track was written by Irwin Levine and Toni Wine . In 1970, Tony Orlando was working as a