The O'Jays are a venerable icon of American R&B and soul music, with a legacy spanning several decades since their inception in the early 1960s in Canton, Ohio. Founded by Eddie Levert Sr., Walter Williams Sr., William Powell, Bobby Massey, and Bill Isles, the group was initially known as The Triumphs, later becoming The Mascots, before finally settling on The O'Jays, named after Cleveland-based DJ Eddie O'Jay. Their journey to stardom was propelled by their signing with Philadelphia International Records in the early 1970s, where they teamed with legendary producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. The O'Jays’ smooth, rich harmonies and socially conscious lyrics became a defining force during the era of Philly soul.

With a string of timeless hits, including "Back Stabbers," "Love Train," and "For the Love of Money," The O'Jays have left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning them induction into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Though the lineup has gone through changes over the years, the group, prominently led by original members Eddie Levert Sr. and Walter Williams Sr., has continued to produce music that resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners. Their album "The Last Word," released in 2019, was hailed as a return to form and served as a poignant commentary on contemporary social issues, underlining the group's enduring relevance and commitment to using their music as a platform for change.

Genres

Classic Soul

Disco

Funk

Philly Soul

Quiet Storm

Soul

Southern Soul

Related Artists

The Temptations

Earth, Wind & Fire

The Stylistics

The Isley Brothers

Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes

The Delfonics

The Chi-Lites

The Spinners

Marvin Gaye

Al Green

The Dramatics

Barry White

Latest Release

Livin (The O'Jays Remix Special Version)

The O'Jays

Single - Released December 21, 2023