About the song
“Love Train” is a timeless classic that has become an iconic representation of the disco era. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the song was released by The O’Jays in 1972 and went on to become a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on both the R&B Singles and the Billboard Hot 100 charts in 1973. The song’s success was not limited to the United States, as it also reached No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart and was certified gold by the RIAA.
The song’s lyrics, which promote unity and love, mention a number of countries and continents, including England, Russia, China, Egypt, Israel, and Africa. The song’s message of togetherness and harmony resonated with listeners around the world, making it a beloved classic that continues to be celebrated today.
Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, “Love Train” features the backing of the legendary house band MFSB. The song’s catchy melody and infectious beat, combined with The O’Jays’ signature harmonies, make it a standout track that has stood the test of time. “Love Train” was also the last song on The O’Jays’ album Back Stabbers, which was released in 1972.
In 2006, “Love Train” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, a testament to its enduring impact on the music industry. The song’s influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in The O’Jays’ footsteps, and its message of love and unity continues to inspire new generations of music lovers. With its timeless themes and unforgettable melody, “Love Train” remains a beloved classic that will continue to ride the rails of music history for years to come.
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