Sample spotters

The O’Jays‘ first album on Philadelphia International Records, Backstabbers, was a masterpiece, highlighted by McFadden & Whitehead’s master composition, ‘Backstabbers’. The haunting song with the great intro became a monster hit, and was followed by the even bigger ‘Love Train’. Songs like ‘For The Love of Money’, ‘Livin’ For the Weekend’, and the classic ‘Use Ta Be My Girl’ all appeared to be a year or two ahead of what everyone else was doing, and made each new O’Jays release an event. And, as the vehicle for Gamble & Huff’s social statements, the group released some of the most intelligent, relevant album cuts of the decade.

“For The Love of Money” with the monumental phased bass line by Anthony Jackson.

Alpha Blondy: Wari

Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five: Step Off

Heavy D: Money Earnin’ Mount Vernon

Jentina: Bad Ass Stripper

Ministere Amer: Prisonnier de la Monnaie

Queen Latifah & Levert: For the Love of Money/Livin’ in the City

Steady B: Rockin’ Music

Stezo: Getting Paid

“Back Stabbers“

Angie Stone: I Wish I Didn’t Miss You

Babu: Turntablise

Detroits Most Wanted: Backstabber

Grand Puba: Back Stabbers

Together Brothers: Back Stabbers

“Cry Together“

Allure: Anything You Want

AZ ft Nas: Mo Money Mo Murder (Homicide)

Slick Rick: Kill N—-z

Tupac: Pour out a Little Liquor

“I Love Music”

Jungle Brothers: Good News Comin’

“Family Reunion”

Jungle Brothers: True Blue (Jungle Brother)

“A Prayer”

Lil’Kim: Heavenly Father

“Got to Give the People What They Want”

Deee-Lite: Heart Be Still

Devin the Dude: One Day at a Time

EPMD: Got to Give the People

Freestyle Fellowship: Sunshine Men

GangStarr: Premier & the Guru

Keith Murray: Sychosymatic

Z Rock Crew’s: Got to Give the People

“What I’m Waiting For”

Jay-Z: You Must Love Me

“When the World’s at Peace”

GangStarr: I’m the Man

“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)”

Tupac: Life Goes On

“La La Means I Love You”

Grand Puba: Very Special