New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
The O’Jays: Hop aboard ‘Love Train’ at annual series
The O’Jays will kick off Stamford’s Wednesday Nite Live concert series with an evening of R&B, funk and soul at Columbus Park on June 27.
They’ll be sure to play “Back Stabbers” — about people who “smile in your face,” but really “want to take your place” —and “Love Train,” which shares a much brighter message of urging “people all over the world” to “join hands” and “start a love train.”
President Donald Trump is undoubtedly a fan of The O’Jays, or at least of the band’s tune, “For the Love of Money.” That was the theme song for his television series, “The Apprentice.” Viewers heard it as he strode confidently toward the cameras during the show’s opening scenes.
Canton, Ohio, is where The O’Jays got started. The band was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2004, and The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
Jake Tavill opens for The O’Jays. Tavill, 21, is known for his soulful melodies, empathetic lyrics and moving instrumentation, according to downtown Stamford’s website. He’s studying at NYU Tisch’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, has released two albums and performs across the country with his band.
Also entertaining in the Wednesday Nite Live series will be Joe Jackson on July 11, Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish’s Rascals on July 18 (with opener What’s Black is White), Dennis DeYoung with the music of Styx on July 25 (with opener Tom The Suit Forst) and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue on Aug. 1 (with opener Funky Dawgz Brass Band).
Bring chairs and coolers, but no glass items. Also restricted: bicycles, skateboards, weapons, firearms, illegal substances of any kind, cameras with detachable lenses, video cameras or recording devices of any kind.
Columbus Park, Main Street at West Park Place, Stamford. Wednesday, June 27, July 11-25, Aug. 1, 6:30 p.m. $20 at gate, cash only; 12 and under free. 203-348-5285, www.stamforddowntown.com