Eddie Levert, the legendary lead vocalist of The O’Jays, is a celebrated figure in the world of R&B music. Born on June 16, 1942, in Bessemer, Alabama, he rose to fame with timeless hits like Love Train and Back Stabbers. With a career spanning over six decades, Eddie Levert has earned a net worth of $18 million through album sales, tours, and royalties.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he remains a symbol of musical excellence. Despite personal losses, including the deaths of his sons Gerald and Sean, Eddie Levert continues to perform and inspire fans worldwide with his unwavering passion.
Quick Facts
Attribute | Details |
Full Name | Edward Willis Levert |
Stage Name | Eddie Levert |
Date of Birth | June 16, 1942 |
Age | 82 years old (as of 2025) |
Place of Birth | Bessemer, Alabama, USA |
Residence | Canton, Ohio, USA |
Height | Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
Weight | Estimated at 180 pounds (82 kg) |
Spouse | Raquel Capelton |
Children | Gerald Levert (deceased), Sean Levert (deceased), others |
Occupation | Singer, songwriter, producer, actor |
Genres | R&B, soul |
Famous For | Lead vocalist of The O’Jays |
Net Worth | $18 million (2025 estimate) |
Awards | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2005), BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2009) |
Notable Songs | Love Train, Back Stabbers, For the Love of Money |
Notable Albums | Back Stabbers (1972), Ship Ahoy (1973) |
Education | Attended high school in Canton, Ohio |
Nationality | American |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Personal Life
Eddie Levert’s personal life has been both inspiring and tragic. Despite the challenges, he remains a symbol of resilience and determination.
Family
Eddie is married to Raquel Capelton, with whom he shares a loving relationship. Together, they have built a life centered on family and faith. Eddie is also the father of Gerald Levert, Sean Levert, and other children. While Gerald and Sean tragically passed away, Eddie honors their memory through his music and charitable work.
Tragic Losses
- Gerald Levert: Passed away in 2006 due to a fatal drug interaction. Gerald was an accomplished R&B singer, known for hits like Baby Hold On to Me (a duet with Eddie).
- Sean Levert: Died in 2008 from complications related to sarcoidosis while in custody.
These losses deeply impacted Eddie but also strengthened his resolve to carry on their legacy.
Relationship
Eddie Levert has been married to Raquel Capelton, a woman who has supported him through life’s ups and downs. Their relationship has been described as one built on mutual respect and love. While not much is publicly shared about their private life, Raquel has been a steady presence in Eddie’s life.
Education
Eddie Levert grew up in Canton, Ohio, where he began singing in church choirs. While specific details about his formal education remain sparse, Eddie’s real education came through music. His early exposure to gospel music and passion for R&B shaped his career as a musician.
- High School: Attended a local high school in Canton.
- Musical Education: Eddie’s vocal training came from years of performing and honing his craft as part of The O’Jays.
Physical Appearance
At 82 years old, Eddie Levert remains a charismatic presence. His appearance reflects both his age and the vitality of someone who has lived a full life.
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 10 inches.
- Weight: Estimated at 180 pounds.
- Distinctive Features: Eddie’s trademark smile and warm demeanor make him instantly recognizable.
- Style: Known for his sharp suits and classic R&B-inspired attire, Eddie embodies the timeless elegance of his genre.
What Is the Net Worth of Eddie Levert: How Much is Eddie Levert Worth
As of 2025, Eddie Levert’s net worth is estimated at $18 million. This impressive fortune reflects decades of success in the music industry, encompassing revenue from record sales, live performances, music royalties, and business ventures. His role as the lead vocalist of The O’Jays has been pivotal in securing a steady stream of royalties from timeless hits like Love Train and Back Stabbers.
Key Sources of Eddie Levert’s Wealth:
- Music Royalties: Earnings from The O’Jays’ iconic discography.
- Live Performances: Decades of sold-out tours and concerts.
- Collaborations: Joint projects with his sons, Gerald and Sean Levert.
- Acting and Media Appearances: Contributions to films and infomercials.
- Business Ventures: Investments in merchandise and other income streams.
Career Highlights and Contributions to The O’Jays
The O’Jays: R&B Titans
Eddie Levert co-founded The O’Jays in the early 1960s, alongside Walter Williams and Marc Gordon. Their big break came after signing with Philadelphia International Records, where they produced several platinum albums and chart-topping hits.
Chart-Topping Success
The group is best known for iconic tracks like:
- Back Stabbers
- Love Train
- For the Love of Money
These songs remain staples of R&B music, earning continuous royalties and solidifying The O’Jays’ position as an enduring force in the industry.
Solo Work and Collaborations with His Sons
Gerald and Sean Levert: A Family Legacy
Eddie Levert collaborated with his sons, Gerald Levert and Sean Levert, both accomplished R&B singers. Together, they released emotionally resonant tracks such as Baby Hold On to Me, which became a chart-topping hit.
Notable Collaborations:
- Baby Hold On to Me (with Gerald Levert) – Certified Platinum.
- Contributions to Gerald and Sean’s group, LeVert.
Despite the tragic losses of both Gerald (2006) and Sean (2008), Eddie continues to honor their memory through his music and philanthropic efforts.
Salary and Finance Overview
Breakdown of Earnings:
- Annual Music Royalties: Estimated at $500,000–$1 million.
- Concert Earnings: Historically ranged between $50,000 and $100,000 per performance.
- Licensing Deals: Significant income from licensing hits for films and commercials.
- Acting Roles: Earnings from movies like The Fighting Temptations.
Eddie’s savvy financial management has ensured the preservation of his wealth over decades.
Awards and Achievements
Eddie Levert has received numerous accolades, including:
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (2005): Recognized for his contributions with The O’Jays.
- BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2009): Honoring his influence on R&B music.
- NAACP Image Awards: Celebrating his cultural impact.
These honors highlight Eddie’s unparalleled contributions to music and his legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.
Acting and Media Appearances
Eddie Levert’s ventures into acting and media further diversified his career:
- Films: Roles in The Fighting Temptations and Meet the Browns.
- Infomercials: Featured in The Best of Soul Train DVD Collection.
- Interviews and Documentaries: Appearances that solidified his status as an R&B legend.
Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond music, Eddie has expanded his wealth through:
- Merchandise Sales: Branded products tied to The O’Jays.
- Real Estate Investments: Properties in Ohio and beyond.
- Endorsements: Partnerships with brands targeting fans of soul music.
Philanthropy and Charitable Contributions
Eddie Levert is also known for his philanthropic efforts:
- Supporting music education initiatives in underserved communities.
- Contributions to organizations honoring his late sons’ memories.
- Advocating for mental health awareness within the music industry.
Legacy and Influence
Eddie Levert’s influence extends far beyond his music. As a pioneer of R&B music, he has inspired generations of R&B singers and musicians. His timeless voice, profound lyrics, and unwavering dedication to his craft ensure that his legacy remains unmatched.
FAQs
How Much Is Eddie Levert?
Eddie Levert’s net worth is estimated at $18 million as of 2025. His wealth comes from royalties, live performances, collaborations, and business ventures accumulated over six decades in the music industry.
How Many Times Has Eddie Levert Been Married?
Eddie Levert has been married twice. His current wife, Raquel Capelton, has been a significant part of his life, providing unwavering support through both personal and professional challenges.
Is Eddie Levert Still Performing?
Yes, Eddie Levert continues to perform as of 2025. He frequently tours with The O’Jays, delighting fans with live renditions of their timeless hits, showcasing his enduring passion for music.
What Does Eddie Levert Jr. Do for a Living?
Eddie Levert Jr. is a musician and songwriter. He has followed in his father’s footsteps, contributing to the music industry with his unique style while honoring the family’s legacy in R&B.
How Many Boys Did Eddie Levert Have?
Eddie Levert had three sons: Gerald Levert, Sean Levert, and Eddie Levert Jr. Tragically, both Gerald and Sean passed away, but their musical contributions remain a testament to their talents.
Who Are Eddie Levert’s Most Famous Collaborators?
Eddie Levert frequently collaborated with his late sons, Gerald and Sean Levert, producing hits like Baby Hold On to Me. He also worked extensively with Walter Williams as part of The O’Jays.
What Awards Has Eddie Levert Received?
Eddie Levert has been honored with numerous awards, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005 and the BET Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009, celebrating his contributions to R&B music.
Where Was Eddie Levert Born?
Eddie Levert was born in Bessemer, Alabama, on June 16, 1942. He later moved to Canton, Ohio, where he began his journey into music, performing in church choirs.
How Did Eddie Levert Handle the Loss of His Sons?
Eddie Levert has been open about the emotional toll of losing Gerald and Sean Levert. He channels his grief into his music, honoring their memory through performances and tributes.
What Are Eddie Levert’s Most Famous Songs?
Eddie Levert is known for iconic tracks with The O’Jays, including Love Train, Back Stabbers, and For the Love of Money. These songs continue to be celebrated as classics in R&B music.
Conclusion
Eddie Levert, the iconic lead vocalist of The O’Jays, is a cornerstone of R&B music. Born on June 16, 1942, in Bessemer, Alabama, he gained fame with chart-topping hits like Love Train and Back Stabbers. Over six decades, Eddie Levert built a remarkable career, earning a net worth of $18 million through album sales, royalties, and live performances.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he remains a celebrated figure in music. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his sons Gerald and Sean, Eddie Levert continues to perform and inspire fans worldwide. His lasting influence in R&B music cements his legacy as one of the genre’s most revered legends.