Photo credit: Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
(January 11, 2023) There is nothing more maddening than internet rumors. And today's rumor is particularly galling to soul music lovers. There have been a number of posts on social media -- including from some noted celebrities -- indicating that Eddie Levert, longtime member and co-lead singer of the legendary O'Jays, had passed. Fortunately newsman extraordinaire Roland Martin shot it down this morning with his Twitter post: PLEASE don’t spread lies about celebrities passing away without REAL CONFIRMATION. I just woke up to an IG post from a celebrity saying Eddie Levert became an ancestor. I Immediately called his wife. He is alive and well. Stop believing janky sources. Eddie is still with us!!!
(January 11, 2023) There is nothing more maddening than internet rumors. And today's rumor is particularly galling to soul music lovers. There have been a number of posts on social media -- including from some noted celebrities -- indicating that Eddie Levert, longtime member and co-lead singer of the legendary O'Jays, had passed. Fortunately newsman extraordinaire Roland Martin shot it down this morning with his Twitter post: PLEASE don’t spread lies about celebrities passing away without REAL CONFIRMATION. I just woke up to an IG post from a celebrity saying Eddie Levert became an ancestor. I Immediately called his wife. He is alive and well. Stop believing janky sources. Eddie is still with us!!!
By any measure, the O'Jays are one of the most important Soul Music groups ever. Whether delivering funky dance music, romantic ballads, or thoughtful social commentary in song, The O'Jays are 100% all-time greats, and Eddie Levert is a one-of-a-kind voice who is still doing his thing beautifully at age 80.
The group has passed its 60th anniversary together and last year embarked on a successful farewell tour. But that doesn't mean we've heard the last of Levert, who is active in engaging with this fans and, we're guessing, isn't done putting his incredible voice on record.
We're thankful that all is okay with Mr. Levert, and we ask SoulTrackers to help to shut down these kinds of harmful rumors (this one is similar to the false rumor a few months ago regarding healthy and vibrant singer Jean Carne) before they get any legs.