Eddie Levert Opens Up About Betrayal and the $15 Million Lawsuit

At 83, Eddie Levert, the legendary lead singer of The O’Jays, has revealed the deep resentment he harbored toward former band member Sammy Strain.

For over three decades, Eddie kept silent about his feelings, but when Strain filed a $15 million lawsuit in 2007, accusing the group of withholding royalties, Eddie’s suspicions about him were finally confirmed.

Strain joined The O’Jays in 1976 after the tragic death of founding member William Powell, who passed away from cancer at the age of 35. Powell’s death left Eddie and Walter Williams devastated, but they decided to continue the group’s legacy. Strain, who had previously performed with Little Anthony and the Imperials, seemed like the perfect addition.

His stage presence and vocal talent helped The O’Jays thrive, even producing hits like “Used to Be My Girl.”

While Strain initially brought energy and professionalism to the group, Eddie soon noticed a shift in his attitude. Strain began making demands, questioning creative decisions, and seeking more recognition. He pushed for equal billing with Eddie and Walter, despite joining the group years after its inception. Strain’s entitlement became a source of tension, but Eddie kept his frustrations hidden to preserve the group’s public image.

The resentment reached its peak in 2007 when Strain filed a lawsuit against Eddie, Walter, and the group’s producers, alleging he had been cheated out of royalties during his 16-year tenure with The O’Jays. Strain claimed he had not received any earnings from hits recorded during his time with the group, accusing Eddie and Walter of theft and conspiracy. The lawsuit also implicated Philadelphia International Records and producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff.

Eddie was outraged by Strain’s accusations, which he viewed as a betrayal. Strain had been welcomed into the group during its most vulnerable time, and Eddie believed he had been fairly compensated for his contributions. Strain’s legal action felt like an attempt to rewrite history and profit from the group’s success without acknowledging the sacrifices made by its founding members.

The lawsuit sparked a domino effect, leading Eddie and Walter to file their own lawsuit against Philadelphia International Records in 2008, accusing the label of withholding royalties. The legal battles exposed the darker side of the music industry, where financial disputes often overshadowed the creative and emotional bonds between artists.

Amid the legal turmoil, Eddie faced personal tragedies that compounded his grief. In 2006, his son Gerald, a successful R&B artist, died from an accidental overdose. Two years later, Eddie’s younger son Shawn passed away in police custody due to medical neglect. These losses devastated Eddie, who had already endured the betrayal of his bandmate and the challenges of the music industry.

Reflecting on his career, Eddie admitted that his hatred for Strain was justified. Strain’s arrogance, entitlement, and ultimate betrayal validated Eddie’s instincts. Despite the hardships, Eddie continues to perform and uphold The O’Jays’ legacy, proving his resilience in the face of adversity.