The O'Jays – Message In The Music

This album ("Message In The Music ") was the first of lackluster albums by "The O'Jays"....This one was a little understandable because of member "William Powell" becoming sick and later dying in 1977....From this point on the group would never be the same, even though they were able to last....

"Sammy Strain" (coming from "Little Anthony & The Imperials") had the hardest task of stepping in, even though he made it clear that he could never take "Powell's" place...

This record did have 2 POWERFUL Crown Jewels in "Message In Our Music" and "Darlin' Darlin' Baby (Sweet, Tender, Love)".....I love "Darlin' Darlin' Baby (Sweet, Tender, Love)", and it was the first 45 record I ever owned..

The rest of the album seemed to lose the direction that the last 4 albums had.....Maybe it was because Music was pushing more "Disco" than ever before, who knows, but this was definitely a step down for the group....

Of course I still own it, because, hey, it's "The O'Jays"!!!!!

What makes the cover notes rare on this record ? Do other pressings not have this ?

U got to listen to the music .. understand while you dance .

Majestic Philly Sound brilliantly presented by Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff .

Honestly Dope !