While they eventually became synonymous with the Philly soul sound in the '70's, The O'Jays began their career in 1960 in Canton, OH (a small town near Akron) and this is their glorious debut as the O'Jays (they had two prios releases as the Mascots).
While this song shows a strong Drifters/ Ben E King influence (that "Stand By Me"/ popcorn kinda groove) to my ears it also sound s a few years ahead of its time with its gritty textures and incredible vocals. A very impressive debut for a staggering career that continues to this day; all hail the O'Jays!!!!!
from 1960...
2 comments:
From my hometown of Canton, Ohio, Eddie Levert Walter Williams Willim Powell, Bobby Massey and Bill Isles,these guys could put on a show.This one sounds like the Mascots cuts being that it was recorded around the same time.I still favor their Imperial and Minit sides the best.. HB Barnum did some wonderful arangements with the group. Last time I saw them was at Leo's Casino in Cleveland back in 69. Glad that their career took off after that. Thank you for posting this.
Just wanted to say thanks, Derek. A very nice record that I'd never heard before. Marie
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