The oldest of the Isley Brothers is O'Kelly Isley Jr.
O'Kelly Isley Jr., born on December 25, 1937, in Cincinnati, Ohio, was a foundational member of the iconic American musical group, The Isley Brothers. He formed the group alongside his younger brothers Rudolph and Ronald, establishing their sound and presence in the rhythm and blues, soul, and funk genres for decades.
Formation and Evolution of The Isley Brothers
The Isley Brothers began their professional career in the mid-1950s, initially as a vocal trio. Over the years, the group's lineup evolved, particularly with the inclusion of younger brothers Ernie and Marvin Isley in the 1970s, which led to a significant shift in their musical direction towards funk, rock, and soul fusion.
To understand who the oldest member is, it's helpful to look at the birth dates of the key members who contributed to the group's legacy:
| Brother | Birth Date | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| O'Kelly Isley Jr. | December 25, 1937 | Lead & Background Vocals |
| Rudolph Isley | April 1, 1939 | Background Vocals |
| Ronald Isley | May 21, 1941 | Lead Vocals |
| Vernon Isley | 1942 | Vocals (early member) |
| Ernie Isley | March 7, 1952 | Guitar |
| Marvin Isley | August 18, 1953 | Bass |
As the birth dates confirm, O'Kelly Isley Jr. was indeed the eldest of the siblings who formed and performed in the group. He played a crucial role in the group's early development and continued to contribute significantly until his passing.
Legacy of O'Kelly Isley Jr.
O'Kelly Isley Jr. passed away on March 31, 1986, at the age of 48, in Alpine, New Jersey. His distinctive vocals and leadership were integral to the group's success and their ability to continuously reinvent their sound throughout the years. The Isley Brothers, including O'Kelly's enduring contributions, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, solidifying their place in music history.
