Otis Redding was an iconic American soul singer and songwriter, born on September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers in the history of soul music and is known for his powerful voice, emotive delivery, and dynamic stage presence.
Redding began his music career in the late 1950s, performing with various bands and recording demos. He gained recognition as a songwriter after writing “These Arms of Mine,” which became his first hit single in 1962. Throughout the 1960s, Redding released a string of successful singles and albums, including “Try a Little Tenderness,” “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” and “Respect,” which became signature songs of his career.
Redding’s music was characterized by its raw emotion, gospel-inspired vocals, and bluesy instrumentation. He was known for his ability to convey deep feelings of love, heartache, and longing through his soulful singing style. Redding’s performances were electrifying, and he became known for his energetic stage presence and captivating live shows.
Tragically, Redding’s life and career were cut short when he died in a plane crash on December 10, 1967, at the age of 26. Despite his untimely death, Redding’s influence on soul music has endured, and he is remembered as one of the most influential and beloved artists of his generation. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, and his music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
1. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” is one of Otis Redding’s most famous and enduring songs. Released in 1968, it became his first and only number one hit single on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the R&B chart.
The song features Redding’s trademark soulful vocals and heartfelt delivery, accompanied by a simple yet memorable melody and arrangement. The lyrics depict a sense of contemplation and introspection as the narrator sits by the dock of the bay, watching the tide roll away and reflecting on life’s ups and downs.
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” was co-written by Otis Redding and guitarist Steve Cropper. It was recorded just days before Redding’s tragic death in a plane crash on December 10, 1967, and was released posthumously in 1968. The song’s iconic whistling outro was improvised by Redding during the recording session, adding to its distinctive charm and enduring appeal.
The song remains a timeless classic and a staple of soul music, celebrated for its poignant lyrics, soulful melody, and Otis Redding’s unforgettable performance. “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” has been covered by numerous artists and continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a lasting testament to Redding’s talent and legacy.
2. Respect
“Respect” is a song written by Otis Redding, but it is more famously known for Aretha Franklin’s cover version, which became a landmark anthem for the feminist and civil rights movements. Aretha Franklin’s version was released in 1967 and became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Aretha Franklin’s rendition of “Respect” added a powerful and soulful touch to the song, transforming it into an empowering anthem. The song’s message of demanding respect resonated strongly during the civil rights era and became an emblem of the feminist movement.
“Respect” is characterized by its catchy chorus, with Franklin spelling out the word “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” and its driving rhythm and horn section. The song’s message of empowerment and self-worth struck a chord with audiences and has since become one of Franklin’s signature songs.
“Respect” has been recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time and has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Aretha Franklin’s rendition of the song remains an enduring classic and a cultural touchstone.
3. I’ve Been Loving You Too Long
“I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” is a classic soul ballad written by Otis Redding and Jerry Butler. Redding recorded the song in 1965, and it was released as a single in April of that year.
The song features Redding’s powerful and emotive vocals, backed by a lush arrangement of horns, strings, and a soulful rhythm section. Lyrically, “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” expresses the narrator’s deep and enduring love for their partner, despite the challenges and hardships they may face in their relationship.
The song’s heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melody struck a chord with audiences, and it became one of Redding’s most beloved and enduring songs. It reached number two on the Billboard R&B chart and remains a staple of classic soul music.
“I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Etta James, Ike & Tina Turner, and Seal, among others. However, Otis Redding’s original recording remains the definitive version, celebrated for its timeless beauty and emotional resonance.
4. Try a Little Tenderness
“Try a Little Tenderness” is a song originally written by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly, and Harry M. Woods in 1932. It has been covered by many artists over the years, but one of the most famous versions is by Otis Redding.
Otis Redding’s version of “Try a Little Tenderness” was recorded in 1966 and released on his album Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul. Redding’s rendition is characterized by his powerful and soulful vocals, backed by a lush orchestral arrangement.
5. These Arms of Mine
“These Arms of Mine” is a soulful ballad written and performed by Otis Redding. It was released in 1962 as Redding’s debut single and became one of his signature songs.
The song features Redding’s smooth and emotive vocals, accompanied by a simple arrangement of piano, guitar, and backing vocals. Lyrically, “These Arms of Mine” expresses the narrator’s longing for love and companionship, as they yearn for the warmth and comfort of their partner’s embrace.
“These Arms of Mine” was a breakthrough hit for Otis Redding, reaching number 20 on the Billboard R&B chart. It showcased Redding’s unique vocal talent and introduced him to a wider audience as a rising star in the soul music scene.
Over the years, “These Arms of Mine” has become one of Otis Redding’s most beloved and enduring songs, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres and continues to resonate with audiences around the world, solidifying its status as a classic in the soul music canon.
6. Mr. Pitiful
“Mr. Pitiful” is a song by Otis Redding, released in 1965. It was written by Redding and guitarist Steve Cropper and appears on the album *The Great Otis Redding Sings Soul Ballads*.
The song is about a man who is down on his luck and feeling sorry for himself. The narrator describes him as “Mr. Pitiful” because he always seems to be in a sad or pitiful state. Despite his troubles, the narrator expresses sympathy for him and acknowledges that everyone feels down sometimes.
“Mr. Pitiful” has a classic soul sound, with Redding’s powerful vocals and the Stax Records house band providing a tight, energetic backing. The song is notable for its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, which contrast with the somewhat melancholy lyrics.
“Mr. Pitiful” became one of Redding’s signature songs and remains a beloved classic of the soul genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Redding’s talent as a singer and songwriter.
7. I Can’t Turn You Loose
“I Can’t Turn You Loose” is a high-energy soul song written by Otis Redding. Originally recorded by Redding in 1965, the song was released as a single and became a staple of his live performances.
“I Can’t Turn You Loose” is characterized by its infectious groove, driving rhythm, and energetic horn section. The lyrics express the narrator’s inability to let go of their lover, despite any challenges or obstacles they may face in their relationship.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Blues Brothers, whose rendition became particularly well-known after being featured in the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers.”
“I Can’t Turn You Loose” remains a beloved classic in Otis Redding’s catalog, celebrated for its irresistible energy and soulful delivery. It continues to be a crowd-pleaser at live performances and a testament to Redding’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
8. Shake
“Shake” is a song by Otis Redding, released in 1967. It was written by Sam Cooke and was included on Redding’s album *Otis Redding Live in Europe*.
The song is an upbeat and energetic R&B track with a catchy melody and rhythm. It features Redding’s powerful and soulful vocals, backed by a lively horn section and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics are about dancing and having a good time, with Redding encouraging listeners to “shake, shake, shake, shake, shake it baby.”
“Shake” showcases Redding’s dynamic vocal range and his ability to convey emotion and energy through his singing. The song’s infectious groove and lively arrangement make it a favorite among fans of Redding’s music.
“Shake” has been covered by several artists over the years and remains a popular track in Redding’s catalog. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fun and enjoyable song to listen to.
9. Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)
“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)” is a soul song written and performed by Otis Redding. It was released in 1966 as a single and later included on his album “Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul.”
The song features Redding’s trademark soulful vocals, backed by a catchy rhythm and horn section. The lyrics express the narrator’s frustration and longing for love, using the repetition of “fa-fa-fa-fa-fa” to convey a sense of urgency and emotion.
“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)” became a hit for Otis Redding, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard R&B chart. It remains one of his most beloved and enduring songs, celebrated for its infectious groove and soulful delivery.
The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including The Blues Brothers, who included a version of it on their 1978 album “Briefcase Full of Blues.” Otis Redding’s original recording, however, remains the definitive version, showcasing his talent as a singer and songwriter in the soul music genre.
10. A Change Is Gonna Come
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a song by Sam Cooke, released in 1964 on the album *Ain’t That Good News*. The song is widely considered one of the greatest and most powerful anthems of the civil rights movement.
The lyrics of “A Change Is Gonna Come” reflect Cooke’s experience with racism and segregation in the United States. The song speaks to the hope for a better future and a belief that change is possible, even in the face of adversity. The chorus contains the lines “It’s been a long, a long time coming / But I know a change gonna come, oh yes it will.”
The song is notable for its soulful melody and Cooke’s emotive vocals. The arrangement features lush orchestration and a gospel-inspired choir, adding to the song’s emotional impact. Cooke’s delivery is powerful and heartfelt, making the song a stirring anthem for the civil rights movement.
“A Change Is Gonna Come” has been covered by many artists over the years and has been used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. Its message of hope and perseverance continues to resonate with listeners and remains relevant to this day.