People all over the world, join hands, and see the O’Jays.

The R&B and pop music legends the O’Jays will top the bill at the 117th Grand Banquet of the 24 Karat Club of the City of New York, which will be held Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019. at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City.

The O’Jays are known for their soul and disco hits “Backstabbers,” “Love Train,” “I Love Music,” “For the Love of Money,” and “Use Ta Be My Girl.” The group is still fronted by its original lead singers, Walter Williams and Eddie Levert, who formed the group as teenagers in 1963. The O’Jays were  inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.

The decision to name the black-tie dinner’s entertainment in advance is a relatively recent one. Traditionally, the club has kept the performer’s name a secret until right before the event started. The entertainment at this year’s event was provided by actress and singer Katharine McPhee.

Last year, the annual banquet moved to the New York Hilton after being held for more than a century at the Waldorf Astoria. The event was forced to move from the Waldorf when the famed hotel closed for three years to undergo renovations.

Cocktails for the 2019 dinner will begin at 5:30 p.m.; banquet doors open at 7. Following the dinner and the band’s performance, the club will host its annual after-party bash, featuring dance music, an open bar, and the chocolate fountain. There will also be a quieter “Sip ‘n Chill” bar and lounge at the West Promenade.

In response to feedback from members, the 24 Karat Club will be hosting its pre- and after-party at the Grand Ballroom Foyer, which is right outside the Hilton ballroom.

Myriam Gumuchian serves as this year’s club banquet chair.

(Image courtesy of the 24 Karat Club of the City of New York)

Rob Bates

JCK News Director