Eddie Levert

Eddie Levert, lead vocalist for the legendary R&B/Soul group The O’Jays, launched his prolific career by co-founding The Triumphs alongside Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey, and Bill Isles. This foundational group eventually signed with King Records as The Mascots, achieving regional recognition through Cleveland radio stations. The trajectory of Levert’s career shifted significantly in 1969 when, as The O’Jays, they signed with Philadelphia International Records. This landmark deal initiated a highly successful collaboration with producers and songwriters Gamble & Huff, yielding numerous chart-topping hits, including the 1972 smash ‘Backstabbers,’ which became a number one and million-selling song.

Levert’s influence extended to collaborations with his sons; in 1984, Gerald and Sean formed LeVert, achieving platinum status with four of their seven albums. In a testament to his intergenerational impact, Levert recorded ‘Baby Hold On to Me’ with his son Gerald in 1992, which became a No. 1 R&B hit and reached No. 37 on the Pop charts.

Levert’s profound contributions to music have been recognized with numerous accolades and inductions. The O’Jays were inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. He further collaborated with his late son Gerald on the 2007 album Something to Talk About and co-authored the book I Got Your Back in the same year. In 2008, he received the ‘Best Duo or Group’ Image Award alongside Gerald.

Levert continues to perform and tour extensively as the lead vocalist for The O’Jays, and as a solo artist, captivating audiences worldwide with his enduring vocal prowess and storied musical repertoire.