The O’Jays are a legendary R&B vocal group hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The group was formed in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that they achieved their greatest commercial success. Known for their smooth harmonies, soulful vocal performances, and socially conscious lyrics, The O’Jays became one of the most influential and beloved groups in R&B history. Their music has stood the test of time, and their songs continue to be celebrated and loved by fans old and new. In this article, we will be taking a look at the top 10 best The O’Jays songs of all time, exploring what makes each track so special and why they continue to be essential listening for R&B fans. From their iconic hits to their lesser-known gems, we will be diving deep into The O’Jays’ discography to celebrate the incredible music of this legendary group.
1. Back Stabbers
“Back Stabbers” is a classic R&B and soul song recorded by The O’Jays in 1972. The song features a groovy bassline, lively horns, and infectious lyrics that criticize fake friends and hypocrites. The song’s melody and groove are instantly recognizable and have been sampled and covered by many artists over the years. The O’Jays’ harmonious vocals deliver the lyrics with a sense of urgency and anger, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever felt betrayed or hurt by someone they trusted. “Back Stabbers” remains a beloved classic and a testament to The O’Jays’ musical legacy.
2. I Love Music
“I Love Music” is an upbeat and funky disco song recorded by The O’Jays in 1975. The song features a catchy hook, dynamic vocals, and lively instrumentation that invites listeners to dance and sing along. The lyrics are simple yet effective, celebrating the power of music to bring people together and uplift their spirits. “I Love Music” is a timeless party anthem that has been covered and sampled by many artists in different genres over the years, cementing The O’Jays’ status as legends of soul and R&B.
3. Love Train
“Love Train” is a classic R&B and soul song recorded by The O’Jays in 1972. The song’s infectious melody, catchy lyrics, and lively instrumentation celebrate the power of love to bring people together and bridge cultural divides. The song’s message of unity and hope has made it a timeless anthem that still resonates with listeners today. The O’Jays’ signature harmonies and dynamic vocals deliver the song’s message with passion and conviction, making it one of the group’s most beloved hits.
4. I’ll Be Sweeter Tomorrow (Than I Was Today)
“I’ll Be Sweeter Tomorrow (Than I Was Today)” is a soulful ballad recorded by The O’Jays in 1975. The song’s poignant lyrics and emotional delivery express the desire to be a better person and make amends for past mistakes. The O’Jays’ soulful vocals and tender harmonies lend the song a sense of sincerity and vulnerability, making it a moving and relatable ballad that still resonates with listeners today.
5. For The Love of Money
“For The Love of Money” is a funk and soul song recorded by The O’Jays in 1973. The song’s funky bassline, dynamic horns, and infectious lyrics celebrate the pursuit of wealth and success while cautioning against the dangers of greed and materialism. The song’s message and groovy rhythm have made it a classic hit that has been covered and sampled by many artists over the years, solidifying The O’Jays’ status as legends of soul and R&B.
6. Use Ta Be My Girl
“Use Ta Be My Girl” is a classic R&B and soul song recorded by The O’Jays in 1978. The song’s catchy hook, upbeat melody, and lively instrumentation celebrate the power of love and nostalgia. The O’Jays’ smooth vocals and harmonies lend the song a sense of romantic longing and wistfulness, making it a timeless ballad that still resonates with listeners today.
7. Deeper (In Love with You)
“Deeper (In Love with You)” is a soulful love song by the Philadelphia-based R&B vocal group The O’Jays. The song was released in 1972 and features lush harmonies and a grooving rhythm section that perfectly complement the group’s emotive vocal performances. The lyrics describe the feelings of falling deeper in love with someone and the desire to stay in that love forever. The O’Jays’ lead vocalist, Eddie Levert, delivers the lyrics with passion and sincerity, backed by the smooth harmonies of the group.
8. Ship Ahoy
“Ship Ahoy” is the title track of The O’Jays’ 1973 album, and it’s a powerful, socially conscious song that speaks to the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. The song starts with the sounds of chains and the ocean, setting a haunting tone for the track. The lyrics describe the brutal conditions of the slave ships and the inhumane treatment of the enslaved people who were forced to make the journey. The O’Jays use their powerful vocals to convey the pain and suffering of those who endured this dark chapter in human history, while also calling for unity and perseverance in the face of oppression.
9. Sunshine
“Sunshine” is a sunny, upbeat track that was released by The O’Jays in 1977. The song’s infectious groove, catchy melody, and optimistic lyrics make it a perfect summer anthem. The lyrics describe the feeling of being in love and how that love can bring light and happiness to even the darkest days. The O’Jays’ soulful vocal performances, along with the funky horn section and driving rhythm section, create an irresistibly joyful atmosphere that’s impossible not to dance to.
10. Lipstick Traces (On a Cigarette)
“Lipstick Traces (On a Cigarette)” is a classic R&B track originally recorded by Benny Spellman in 1962, but it was The O’Jays’ 1972 cover that brought the song to new heights of popularity. The song’s melancholic melody and relatable lyrics about lost love and memories make it a timeless classic. The O’Jays’ soulful harmonies and Eddie Levert’s emotive vocals perfectly capture the longing and heartache of the song’s lyrics, backed by a simple but effective instrumental arrangement that puts the focus on the vocal performances. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but The O’Jays’ version remains the definitive one.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
