Key Takeaways
- Despite recent online rumors about his demise, Eddie Levert, the legendary lead singer of The O’Jays, is alive and continuing his music.
- Eddie Levert’s remarkable career with The O’Jays has resulted in 10 gold albums, 9 platinum records, and numerous No. 1 hits, including classics like “Love Train” and “Back Stabbers.”
- While Levert has endured profound personal tragedy, including the loss of three children – Gerald (2006), Sean (2008), and most recently Ryan (2024) – he has found strength through his faith.
In recent days, rumors have circulated online about the passing of legendary R&B singer Eddie Levert. However, these reports are unfounded.
Eddie Levert, the iconic lead vocalist of The O’Jays, is very much alive and continues to inspire through his music.
Although losing his daughter Ryan earlier this year has added to his grief, Eddie remains well.
The Life And Career Of Eddie Levert
Born Edward Willis Levert on June 16, 1942, in Bessemer, Alabama, Eddie moved to Canton, Ohio, at the age of six.
It was there that his musical journey began, singing in church choirs and school plays and performing on local gospel radio shows.
In high school, Levert joined forces with classmates Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey, and Bill Isles to form a group initially called “The Triumphs.”
After gaining traction in their local scene, they signed with King Records under the name “The Mascots.” Eventually, they rebranded as “The O’Jays” and dominated the R&B charts.
The O’Jays found their greatest success after signing with Philadelphia International Records in 1969.
Hits like “Back Stabbers,” “Love Train,” and “For the Love of Money” solidified their place in music history.
Throughout his career, Eddie Levert and The O’Jays have earned 10 gold albums, with nine going platinum and numerous No. 1 hits.
Personal Losses
Eddie Levert’s life has been marked by both immense success and profound personal loss. He has tragically outlived three of his children:
- Gerald Levert (1966–2006): Gerald, a talented singer and member of the group LeVert, passed away at 40 due to complications from prescribed medications.
- Sean Levert (1968–2008): Sean died at 39 while serving a jail sentence after being denied necessary medications.
- Ryan Levert (2002–2024): Eddie’s youngest child, Ryan, passed away at the age of 22 after a battle with lupus.
Despite these heartbreaking losses, Eddie Levert has shown remarkable strength.
He has often spoken about the strength he draws from his faith, finding solace in the story of the Bible.
Eddie shared in an interview,
“My closeness with God has helped me a great deal. I had days when I blubbered like a baby, just crying. But I have a purpose now.”
Via Cleveland
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Eddie Levert and his late son Gerald’s collaborative works were released posthumously in 2007, including their jointly recorded album “Something to Talk About” and their co-written book “I Got Your Back.”
- The O’Jays’ legendary status was celebrated with multiple prestigious honors between 2009 and 2011, including BET’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Heroes and Legends Pacesetter Award for Eddie personally, and the Trumpet Lifetime Achievement Award.
