One More Time

Walter Williams and Eddie Levert first met when they were the ages of 6 and 7, respectively. As teenagers in Canton, Ohio, they formed a band originally consisting of Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey and Bill Isles. In 1963, the band took the name "The O'Jays" in tribute to Cleveland radio disc jockey Eddie O'Jay. Several members have changed, but the core, original lead singers, Eddie Levert and Walter Williams, continue to front the group.

The O'Jays were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2005 and were honored with BET's Life Time Achievement Award in 2009. In 2013, they were inducted into the Official R&B Music Hall of Fame.

Eddie Levert Sr., Walter Williams Sr. and Eric Nolan Grant, who joined the group in 1995, continue to thrill fans today. Throughout their career The O'Jays have achieved 10 Gold albums, 9 Platinum albums and 10 #1 hits. It's been a long journey but thanks to the fans, the LOVE TRAIN is still going strong!

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In the annals of R&B history, the Whispers have earned a solid and memorable position as one of the world’s longest-running vocals groups. Celebrating over 50 years in the industry, they are the cream of soul, embellishing smooth ballads and upbeat dance favorites. As one of the premier R&B groups to ever grace the stage, their musical success can be attributed to a careful balance of soul, disco, jazz, and pop to the delight of millions of fans. They have had 33 top 100 hits and 20 Billboard charted albums over a span of five decades.

The Whispers began their legendary career in 1964 producing a string of hits continuing over the last five decades such as “Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong,” “And the Beat Goes On,” “Rock Steady,” “A Song For Donny,” and “Lady.” Their music has been sampled over 131 times and featured in over 600 musical compilations. The group has not made any personnel changes since 1973 when Leaveil Degree replaced Gordy Harmon; they still consist of Walter Scott, Wallace “Scotty” Scott and Leaveil Degree. The passing of Nicholas Caldwell in 2016 left them as a trio, but still stellar and powerful in their stage presence. The Whispers have always been at the forefront of promoting and inspiring social change with such hits as “Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong,” “Help Them See the Light,” and “Olivia.” It’s no surprise that in 2020, Walter, Scotty and Leaveil ask the question: “HOW LONG” in their latest single about social unrest.

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Before assuming the name the Dramatics, the vocal sextet comprised of Rob Davis, Rob Banks, Larry Reed, Robert Ellington, Larry "Squirrel" Demps, and Elbert Wilkens initially released two singles as the Dynamicson the Wingate imprint that saw no chart action. The group became a quintet upon Ellington's exit, and also changed their name to the Dramatics. They migrated to the Sport label and in 1967 released their first single to hit the charts, "All Because of You," which peaked at number 42 on the R&B charts. However, in spite of the exposure and limited record sales, some group members became discouraged, which facilitated a major personnel change. William "Wee Gee" Howard replaced lead singer Reed, and Willie Ford of the Capitols replaced bass Rob Davis. Also during this time, the Dramatics had signed with producer Don Davis' production company.

Even though the group managed to stay together, the ensuing years were unproductive for chart action and sales. Between 1967 and 1971, the Dramatics made very little noise on the national scene. By the end of 1971, Davis summoned the group to the studio to record producer/songwriter Tony Hester's "Watcha See Is Watcha Get." The single was the Dramatics' first major national hit, peaking at number three on the R&B charts, and sustaining chart action for 15 weeks. That single was followed by the R&B Top Ten single "Get Up and Get Down."

The following year the Dramatics released "In the Rain," which was also penned by Hester. The single torpedoed its way to the number one spot on the R&B charts, maintaining that position for four consecutive weeks; the single also peaked at number five on the pop charts. Ironically, in spite of the national attention the group was receiving, another personnel shuffle was simmering.

Larry "L.J." Reynolds, who had been a member of Chocolate Syrup and was pursuing a solo career during this time, met Dramatics member Banks at the Apollo following a performance by the group. It just so happened that Howard was absent that night. Reynolds auditioned for Banks backstage; it was not too long afterwards that Reynolds, who was also signed to Don Davis' production company, began to occasionally sit in with the Dramatics during Howard's absences.

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McCormick Place Parking Lot C provides the most convenient on-site parking access for Arie Crown Theater events.

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A limited number of prepaid guaranteed parking spaces are available at the rate of $29 per day by advance order. Parking spaces are guaranteed even if lots fill to capacity.

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For the safety, security, and enjoyment of all guests, the following items are not allowed in the Wintrust Arena. Your cooperation will help expedite entering the facility.

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In accordance with the City of Chicago and the Smoke-Free Illinois Act, smoking is prohibited inside Arie Crown Theater. (this includes all smoking tobacco, marijuana, e-cigarettes and vaporizers). Violators of this policy may be ejected from the venue.