About the song
Released in 1972, “Love Train” by The O’Jays isn’t just a catchy song, it’s a cultural touchstone. Penned by the songwriting duo of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the single became a runaway success, topping both the R&B Singles and Billboard Hot 100 charts in 1973. It marked a significant milestone for The O’Jays, becoming their first and only number one record on the US pop chart.
But “Love Train” transcends mere chart success. The song’s infectious groove and uplifting message resonated with a nation yearning for unity in the wake of social and political upheaval. The lyrics paint a picture of a metaphorical train, a symbol of love and togetherness, inviting people from all walks of life and across the globe to climb aboard. Countries like England, Russia, China, and even the entire continent of Africa receive mentions, creating a sense of universal connection.
Released just as the Vietnam War was drawing to a close, “Love Train” carried an undeniable message of hope and optimism. This sentiment was further underscored by its arrival on the Billboard Hot 100 on the very same day the Paris Peace Accords were signed. Music critics were quick to take notice, with Record World praising the song’s infectious melody and predicting it would be the biggest hit on The O’Jays’ album “Back Stabbers.”
Recorded at Philadelphia’s Sigma Sound Studios with backing by the legendary MFSB house band, “Love Train” wasn’t just a studio creation. An accompanying music video showcased the power of human connection, featuring individuals forming a symbolic “Love Train” near a bustling railroad station. The video’s message mirrored the song’s: unity and togetherness can move mountains.
“Love Train” left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has been covered by a diverse range of artists, from Hall & Oates to The Rolling Stones, each adding their own spin to the timeless message. The song has also found a home in film and television, appearing in everything from the classic “The Last Days of Disco” to recent Coors Light commercials.
In conclusion, “Love Train” by The O’Jays is more than just a song; it’s a movement, a call for unity and love in a world that often feels divided. With its infectious groove and powerful message, “Love Train” continues to inspire and uplift listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
People all over the world (everybody)
Join hands (join)
Start a love train, love train
People all over the world (all the world, now)
Join hands (love ride)
Start a love train (love ride), love train
The next stop that we make will be England
Tell all the folks in Russia, and China, too
Don’t you know that it’s time to get on board
And let this train keep on riding, riding on through
Well, well
People all over the world (you don’t need no money)
Join hands (come on)
Start a love train, love train (don’t need no ticket, come on)
People all over the world (join in, ride this train)
Join in (ride this train, y’all)
Start a love train (come on, train), love train
All of you brothers over in Africa
Tell all the folks in Egypt, and Israel, too
Please don’t miss this train at the station
‘Cause if you miss it, I feel sorry, sorry for you
Well
People all over the world (sisters and brothers)
Join hands (join, come on)
Start a love train (ride this train, y’all), love train (come on)
People all over the world (don’t need no tickets)
Join hands (come on, ride)
Start a love train, love train
Ride, let it ride
Let it ride
Let it ride
People, ain’t no war
People all over the world (on this train)
Join in (ride the train)
Start a love train, love train (ride the train, y’all)
People all over the world (come on)
Join hands (you can ride or stand, yeah)
Start a love train, love train (makin’ love)
People all over the world (’round the world, y’all)
Join hands (come on)
Start a love train, love train
People all over the world
Join hands
Start a love train, love train
People all over the world
Join hands
Start a love train, love train
People all over the world
Join hands
Start a love train