The O'Jays Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a The O'Jays band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The O'Jays are an iconic American R&B group known for their rich vocal harmonies and smooth soul sound. Originating from Canton, Ohio, the group was formed by childhood friends Eddie Levert (vocals) and Walter Williams (vocals), who remain the core members alongside Eric Nolan Grant (vocals), who joined in 1995. Over the decades, The O'Jays have captivated audiences with their blend of soul, disco, and R&B, delivering timeless hits like "Love Train" and "Backstabbers". Signed to the Philadelphia International label in the early 1970s, they became synonymous with the Philly soul sound, earning their place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and cementing their legacy in the soul music genre.
How to Sound Like The O'Jays
The O'Jays' sound is characterized by its lush, orchestrated arrangements and dynamic vocal interplay. Their music often features smooth, melodic bass lines and crisp, resonant drum patterns that anchor their tracks, creating a groove-laden foundation. To emulate their sound, musicians might focus on utilizing vintage analog synthesizers and lush string arrangements, which are hallmarks of the Philly soul style. The use of horn sections and rhythm guitars adds a layer of richness and depth, while harmonized vocal layers bring a soulful, emotive quality to their music. Incorporating analog delay and reverb effects can help achieve the warm, spacious feel that defines The O'Jays' captivating music.
Discography
Back On Top (Expanded Edition)
1968
In Philadelphia
1970
Super Bad
1971
Back Stabbers
1972
Ship Ahoy (Expanded Edition)
1973
Live In London
1974
Survival
1975
Family Reunion (Expanded Edition)
1975
Message In The Music
1976
Travelin' At The Speed Of Thought
1977
So Full Of Love
1978
Identify Yourself
1979
The Year 2000
1980
My Favorite Person
1982
When Will I See You Again
1983
From The Beginning
1984
Love And More
1984
Love Fever
1985
Let Me Touch You
1987
Serious
1989
Emotionally Yours
1991
Home For Christmas
1991
Heartbreaker
1993
Love You To Tears
1997
For The Love
2001
Imagination
2004
Christmas With The O'Jays
2010
Too Imagine
2018
The Last Word
2019
Live In New York
2019
Imagination (Karaoke)
2019
