“Love Train” is one of those timeless songs that instantly gets people moving and singing along. But who is behind this feel-good anthem that has transcended generations? The answer is The O’Jays, a legendary soul music group whose journey to stardom was anything but an overnight success. This article delves into the story of The O’Jays and the creation of their signature hit, “Love Train,” revealing the voices and the vision behind this iconic song.
The O’Jays: From School Group to Soul Sensations
The O’Jays’ story began in 1958 in Canton, Ohio, when Eddie Levert and Walter Williams, along with other schoolmates, formed a group. As Eddie Levert recounts, “We started the O’Jays at school in Canton, Ohio, in 1958, but struggled to find our identity and took years to make a breakthrough.” Their early years were marked by searching for their sound, even venturing into beach music and opening for acts like the Dave Clark Five and Sonny and Cher. The initial dream of instant success and riches was met with the reality of hard work and perseverance.
The group faced lineup changes, with original members Bill Isles and Bobby Massey eventually leaving. However, the core of Eddie Levert and Walter Williams remained, setting the stage for a transformative period in their career.
The Gamble and Huff Era: A Turning Point
The pivotal moment for The O’Jays arrived in 1972 when they connected with songwriting and production giants, Gamble and Huff, and signed with Philadelphia International Records. This partnership proved to be a perfect match, as Gamble and Huff recognized and nurtured the group’s gospel roots and vocal versatility. Levert describes the synergy: “Everything changed in 1972, when we met [songwriters and producers] Gamble and Huff and signed to Philadelphia International. They recognised our gospel roots and ability to switch between lead vocals… We just clicked.”
Kenny Gamble’s prolific songwriting and Leon Huff’s masterful production created a soundscape that perfectly complemented The O’Jays’ vocal talents. They had a wealth of songs ready, allowing the group to select material that resonated with them. This collaboration would birth some of the most enduring soul hits of the 1970s, with “Love Train” leading the charge.
The Spontaneous Creation of “Love Train”
The story behind the creation of “Love Train” is as remarkable as the song itself. According to Eddie Levert, the song’s lyrics were conceived spontaneously in the studio. “When we started recording, Love Train didn’t even have lyrics, so Kenny came up with them in five minutes, on the spot.” This impromptu songwriting session resulted in lyrics that felt both universal and timeless, instantly capturing the spirit of unity and hope.
Walter Williams emphasizes the message embedded within the song: “Love Train was the first of our big message songs: ‘People all over the world (everybody), join hands, start a love train.'” Released in 1972, a time of social and political turmoil with the Vietnam War and growing social divides, “Love Train”‘s message of global unity resonated deeply. The song’s lyrics explicitly called out countries across the globe, including England, Russia, and China, in a positive and hopeful light.
The O’Jays iconic lineup in 1973: Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, and William Powell, the voices behind ‘Love Train’.
“Love Train”‘s Enduring Legacy
“Love Train” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the charts and solidifying The O’Jays’ place in music history. More than just a chart-topper, the song became an anthem of unity and positivity. As Levert reflects, “Love Train felt like destiny. It had such perfect, timeless lyrics that it was almost as if they’d come from God, and we had to deliver them to the people.”
Even decades later, the song’s infectious energy and message continue to resonate. Williams notes, “It went to number one and is still the biggest song we’ve ever done. I never get bored of it.” The song’s impact is evident in live performances, where audiences spontaneously form “love trains,” dancing together in a collective expression of joy and togetherness.
Despite attempts to co-opt the song for divisive purposes, as in the case of its unauthorized use by Donald Trump, The O’Jays’ message of unity remains central to “Love Train”‘s identity. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its simple yet powerful message: “if we pull together, we can make things better for everyone.”
In conclusion, “Love Train” was sung by The O’Jays, and more specifically, the lead vocals of Eddie Levert and Walter Williams, backed by the harmonies of the group. But beyond just identifying the performers, understanding the story behind “Love Train” reveals a journey of perseverance, collaboration, and a commitment to spreading a message of love and unity that continues to resonate around the world.
