The O'Jays, one of the defining vocal groups of 1970s soul, are the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame R&B group behind classics including "Love Train" and "For the Love of Money." Formed in Canton, Ohio, in 1958, the group was anchored for decades by founding members Eddie Levert and Walter Williams alongside William Powell, and took its name in 1963 in tribute to Cleveland radio DJ Eddie O'Jay, who championed them early on.

After more than a decade of recording, The O'Jays broke through in 1972 when they signed with Gamble and Huff's Philadelphia International Records and helped define the lush "Philadelphia soul" sound. Their album Back Stabbers (1972) produced the #3 hit title track, and the 1973 single "Love Train" topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global anthem of unity.