R&B legends the O'Jays still riding "Love Train"

"Give the People What They Want" is just one of the O'Jays' many signature hits.

But its message also doubles as the secret behind the trio's 50-year career. In that time, the O'Jays have sung their way to legendary status thanks to such hits as "Back Stabbers," "Love Train," "For the Love of Money," and "Used Ta Be My Girl."

Anchored by Eddie Levert's raw, fervent vocals and Walter Williams' suave, oasis-cool tones, the O'Jays have kept folks sweating on the dancefloor and in the bedroom. And while the death in 1977 of original member William Powell left an irreplaceable void, the group has continued to uplift the soul with talented assistance from singers Sammy Strain, Nathaniel Best and current member Eric Nolan Grant.

Still a live draw, the group spends about half the year on the road, according to co-manager Roz Ryan. "Walt and Eddie's stamina at 60-plus years is better than most young people's."

Levert, 65, and Williams, 64, credit their success to three main factors: their God-given voices, their fortuitous pairing with songwriter/producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, and the tutelage of Motown choreographer Charles "Cholly" Atkins.

Giving each other space has also helped, says Williams (who lives in Cleveland, while Levert lives in Las Vegas).

"We have a long friendship but it's not like we like each other every day. Sometimes it's like World War III because we don't agree on everything and neither one of us is afraid to express that. It's not totally about me and Eddie knows it's not totally about him. That's probably the glue that's kept us together all these years: giving each other the right to be who you are."