Legendary R&B group The O’Jays have just released their final album called “The Last Word”. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted group of Eddie Levert Sr., Walter Williams Sr. and Eric Nolan Grant is the group’s first album in 20 years and finds them touching on social injustice with a message of love.
With a remarkable career that has spanned 60-years and included hits like “Love Train,” “For the Love of Money,” “Use ta Be My Girl,” “Back Stabbers,” and many more, The O’Jays are an indelible part of pop culture. With the release of The Last Word the group is showing that they have not lost a beat, emoting the same hunger and vocal craftsmanship they have become known for while delivering socially conscious message music that makes you think while you dance.
“The Last Word” features production from Steve Greenberg, Mike Mangini and R&B legend Betty Wright, along with the songwriter and rock/pop mastermind Sam Hollander. The album includes standout tracks such as “Above the Law,” “Stand Up (Show Love),” and the Bruno Mars and Patrick Monahan penned “Enjoy Yourself.” Eddie LeVert adds:
“I look at what is going on in the world and not much seems to have changed from when we first started doing this. We are still dealing with the same issues. On this album we addressed those issues as well as the intolerance we see coming out of the Trump Administration on a daily basis. We also offer a solution. That solution is to combat hatred with love and acceptance.”
The 9-track album provides a critical look at the precarious state of social and criminal justice in America. As elder statesmen, the group has experienced much throughout their lives, from the civil rights movement to rising economic inequality and the erosion of democratic norms. On this album they are sharing their perspective on the state of the country as well as the world; offering up some words of wisdom for the next generation before exiting the stage.
In celebration of the release, the group will be performing a special show at the Apollo Theater on April 26th. Tickets can be purchased here.