Love Train


"Love Train" is a hit single by the O'Jays, written by Gamble and Huff for the O'Jays' 1972 album Back Stabbers. Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, the house band MFSB provided backing. The song has been considered one of the first disco songs.
"Love Train" entered the Billboard Hot 100's top 40 on January 27, 1973, the same day that the Paris Peace Accords were signed. The song's lyrics of unity mention a number of countries, including England, Russia, China, Egypt, and Israel, as well as the continent of Africa. It reached No. 1 on both the R&B Singles and the Hot 100 in February and March 1973, respectively, and No. 9 on the UK singles chart and was certified gold by the RIAA. It was the O'Jays' first and only number one record on the US pop chart.
The single was a 2006 inductee into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Reception

Record World said of the single release that the "tune chugs right along with a Gamble and a Huff" and could become the biggest hit from the Back Stabbers album.

Music video

The music video shows a group of people forming a human chain near a railroad station, while at the same time, some railroad cars are shown in motion. Throughout the video, more people join in the chain, which they call the "Love Train". It was recorded in 1973.

Charts

Weekly charts

Year-end charts

Certifications

Cover versions

In 2006 Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee performed "Love Train" for the ending credits of Final Destination 3.

In popular culture

The song was featured in the popular long-running Coors Light series of commercials featuring the Silver Bullet Express train from approximately 2005 to 2011, returning as a Super Bowl and March Madness ad in 2024.