Ohio Players

Pioneers of Funk, Soul, and the Sound that Defined the 70s

The Ohio Players are an American funk and soul powerhouse that dominated the charts in the 1970s with their unforgettable grooves, elaborate album art, and electrifying live performances. Known for blending funky basslines, soulful melodies, and jazzy horns, the band scored major hits with classics like "Love Rollercoaster," "Fire," and "Skin Tight." Their sensual, energetic sound and flamboyant stage presence helped set the stage for the evolution of funk into a mainstream genre.

Rising out of Dayton, Ohio, the band’s genre-defining contributions have earned them a revered place in music history. Their music remains timeless, sampled by numerous hip-hop artists, and continues to electrify fans, old and new alike.

Key Achievements / Highlights


  • Hit #1 on both the Billboard Pop and R&B charts with “Fire” and “Love Rollercoaster.”

  • Their album “Honey” was certified Platinum, marking a peak in their mainstream success.

  • Inducted into the R&B Hall of Fame in 2013.

  • Influenced countless artists from funk to hip-hop, including Red Hot Chili Peppers and Snoop Dogg.

  • Their distinctive use of horn sections and bass grooves helped shape the modern sound of funk and R&B.

Music and Videos + Photos


  • Genre: Funk, R&B, Soul

  • Years Active: 1959 – Present