She started her music career, in 1985, and released four studio albums until 1990, I Can Hardly Wait, Count It All Joy, Morning Light, and Get a Grip.
McClendon was nominated for two GMA Dove Awards in 1987 and 1988, in the Contemporary Black Gospel Album category.
[4] The subsequent studio album, Count It All Joy, was released in 1987, from Star Song Communications.
It was also nominated for the Contemporary Black Gospel Album, at the 19th GMA Dove Awards, in 1988.
[11] In 2011-12, McClendon and husband Scott Smith were briefly the worship leaders at the Crystal Cathedral and televised Hour of Power services, a shift away from the church's longtime focus on traditional music with organ and orchestra.