# Eddie Levert Reveals Decades of Resentment Toward Sammy Strain Over $15 Million Betrayal

At 83, Eddie Levert, the legendary lead singer of The O’Jays, has broken his silence about a deep-seated feud with former bandmate Sammy Strain, revealing a story of betrayal and greed centered around a $15 million lawsuit.

For over 30 years, Levert kept quiet about his disdain for Strain, who joined the iconic R&B group in 1976 after the tragic de@th of founding member William Powell from cancer at age 35. However, when Strain filed a lawsuit in 2007 claiming he was cheated out of royalties during his 16-year tenure, Levert’s worst suspicions about the man were confirmed.

The O’Jays, formed in Canton, Ohio, by Levert, Walter Williams, and Powell, soared to fame in the 1970s with hits like *Backstabbers* and *Love Train* under producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff at Philadelphia International Records.

Strain, previously with Little Anthony and the Imperials, brought a seasoned voice and vibrant stage presence, contributing to successes like *Used to Be My Girl*. Levert initially praised Strain’s energy, noting, “We became superstars with Sammy because he was such an entertainer.” Yet, tensions brewed as Strain’s attitude shifted; he demanded equal billing and challenged creative decisions, treating Levert and Williams—group founders—as subordinates rather than peers.

Behind the scenes, Strain meticulously documented earnings, building a case for equal treatment despite being a replacement member. Levert’s resentment grew, feeling Strain lacked gratitude for the platform The O’Jays provided.

The breaking point came in 1992 when Strain left to rejoin his former group, but the true betrayal unfolded in 2007 with the $15 million lawsuit. Strain alleged he received no royalties for hits across 11 albums, accusing Levert, Williams, Gamble, Huff, and the label of conspiracy. Levert saw this as a calculated move, noting Strain waited 15 years post-exit to sue, revealing deep ingratitude for the opportunity that elevated his career.

The legal battle sparked further chaos, with Levert and Williams countersuing Philadelphia International in 2008 for $3 million in withheld royalties, exposing the music industry’s financial corruption.

Amidst this, Levert endured personal tragedies—losing sons Gerald in 2006 to an overdose and Shawn in 2008 to medical neglect in custody—compounding the pain of Strain’s actions. Strain’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The O’Jays in 2005, while original member Bill Isles was omitted, added insult to injury before his lawsuit.

Levert now acknowledges his hatred for Strain was justified, viewing him as the embodiment of entitlement and betrayal in an industry that often turns allies into enemies.

Despite losing family, friends, and faith in partnerships, Levert continues to sing, carrying The O’Jays’ legacy. Strain’s actions taught him a bitter lesson: even those you save can become your worst enemies when greed prevails.