Which R&B group recorded the 1972 hit "Love Train"?

The R&B group that recorded the 1972 hit “Love Train” was The O’Jays.

Written and produced by Philadelphia soul architects Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, “Love Train” was recorded at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia for The O’Jays’ album Back Stabbers. The group’s lead vocalists included Eddie LeVert and Walter Williams, whose energetic delivery helped turn the song into one of Philadelphia International Records’ signature releases.

The single was released in December 1972 and became a major crossover success in 1973, reaching No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the U.S. R&B chart. Its message of international unity, repeated in the famous “People all over the world” chorus, helped give it lasting appeal. Although often described as an early disco recording, its sound is rooted in Philadelphia soul, with a driving rhythm section, prominent strings, and backing from the studio musicians known as MFSB.

A common mix-up is confusing The O’Jays with other Philadelphia soul groups such as The Stylistics or The Spinners, who also had major hits during the same era.