Otis Redding was a highly influential American singer and songwriter, widely regarded as one of the greatest voices in soul music. Born on September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia, Redding’s career, though tragically short, left a profound impact on the music world.
Redding’s distinctive voice and emotive style helped define the soul genre, blending gospel influences with raw, heartfelt emotion. Some of his most famous songs include “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay,” “Respect,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” and “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long.” His powerful performances and memorable recordings continue to resonate with audiences, and his contributions to soul music remain highly regarded. Redding’s career was cut short when he died in a plane crash on December 10, 1967, at the age of 26. Despite his brief life, his legacy endures through his influential music and lasting impact on the genre.
1. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” is one of Otis Redding’s most iconic songs, released in 1968 shortly after his death. Co-written by Redding and Steve Cropper, the song features a soulful melody and poignant lyrics that reflect themes of reflection and longing.
The track is notable for its blend of soul and pop influences, with Redding’s emotive vocals and the mellow, laid-back arrangement creating a sense of peaceful contemplation. The song’s memorable whistling, which Redding recorded as a spontaneous addition, has become a defining element of the track. “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” was a posthumous hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become one of Redding’s most enduring and celebrated works.
2. Respect
“Respect” is a landmark song originally written by Otis Redding and famously performed by Aretha Franklin. Released in 1967, Franklin’s version of the song became an anthem of empowerment and civil rights. Her powerful vocal performance and assertive delivery transformed the track into a statement of female strength and independence.
The song’s lyrics, demanding respect and recognition, resonated widely and established Franklin as the “Queen of Soul.” “Respect” became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Franklin two Grammy Awards. It remains one of the most iconic and influential songs in music history, symbolizing both the power of soul music and the broader social movements of the era.
3. I’ve Been Loving You Too Long
“I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” by Otis Redding is a timeless soul ballad released in 1965. Written by Redding and Jerry Butler, the song captures the deep emotional intensity of a relationship that’s enduring but facing challenges. Redding’s powerful, soulful vocals and the lush, slow-burning arrangement convey a profound sense of longing and heartbreak. The track’s heartfelt lyrics and Redding’s stirring performance make it a standout in his discography, illustrating his ability to express complex emotions with raw honesty. “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” remains a classic example of Redding’s impact on soul music and his enduring influence as an artist.
4. Try a Little Tenderness
“Try a Little Tenderness” is a classic soul song made famous by Otis Redding. Released in 1966, the track is a cover of a song originally written by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly, and Harry M. Woods in 1932. Redding’s version is renowned for its emotional depth and powerful delivery.
The song’s lyrics offer advice on how to maintain a loving relationship by showing tenderness and understanding. Redding’s rendition is characterized by his soulful, passionate vocals and a dynamic arrangement that builds to a stirring climax. The song showcases Redding’s ability to convey deep emotion and remains one of his signature performances, illustrating his mastery of soul music and his profound impact on the genre.
5. These Arms of Mine
“These Arms of Mine” is a seminal soul ballad by Otis Redding, released in 1962 as his debut single. The song is known for its raw emotional intensity and Redding’s poignant vocal performance. Written by Redding himself, along with his frequent collaborator Jerry Butler, the track features a soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics that express yearning and vulnerability.
Redding’s performance is marked by its depth and sincerity, capturing the essence of longing and desire. The song’s simple, yet powerful arrangement and Redding’s expressive delivery made it a significant early hit, establishing him as a major talent in soul music. “These Arms of Mine” remains a classic example of Redding’s influence and his ability to convey profound emotion through his music.
6. Mr. Pitiful
“Mr. Pitiful” is a song by Otis Redding, released in 1964. Written by Redding and Steve Cropper, the track features a classic soul sound with Redding’s distinctive, emotive vocals and a groovy rhythm. The song’s lyrics describe a man lamenting his unfortunate romantic situation and seeking sympathy for his troubles.
“Mr. Pitiful” became one of Redding’s early hits and is notable for its energetic delivery and catchy melody. The track helped establish Redding’s reputation in the soul music scene and showcased his ability to blend heartfelt emotion with engaging, upbeat arrangements. The song remains a celebrated part of Redding’s influential catalog.
7. I Can’t Turn You Loose
“I Can’t Turn You Loose” is a classic soul song by Otis Redding, released in 1965. Written by Redding and his frequent collaborator Jerry Butler, the song is known for its energetic rhythm and infectious groove. The track showcases Redding’s dynamic vocal delivery and the strong, driving beat of the backing band, which includes the iconic Stax rhythm section.
The song’s lyrics express a powerful sense of desperation and attachment, with Redding lamenting his inability to move on from a relationship despite the pain it causes him. “I Can’t Turn You Loose” became a significant hit and remains a quintessential example of Redding’s ability to blend emotional depth with vibrant, high-energy performances. The track is celebrated for its enduring appeal and its role in establishing Redding as a major figure in soul music.
8. Shake
“Shake” is a high-energy soul track by Otis Redding, released in 1968. The song is known for its infectious rhythm and Redding’s vibrant vocal performance. It features a lively groove and an upbeat tempo, showcasing Redding’s dynamic energy and ability to blend soulful singing with an engaging, danceable beat.
The lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and enjoy themselves, reflecting Redding’s charisma and his knack for creating music that resonates both emotionally and physically. “Shake” exemplifies Redding’s versatility as an artist and his ability to captivate audiences with both heartfelt ballads and spirited, danceable tunes.
9. Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)
“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)” is a song by Otis Redding, released in 1966. Written by Redding and Steve Cropper, the track is characterized by its soulful melody and Redding’s emotive vocal performance. The song features a memorable, repetitive chorus and a groove that blends elements of soul and rhythm and blues.
The lyrics express the narrator’s melancholy and longing, capturing a sense of sadness and reflection. The track became a hit, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart. “Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)” is celebrated for its expressive delivery and remains a notable example of Redding’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
10. A Change Is Gonna Come
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a powerful and iconic soul song by Sam Cooke, released in 1964. Written by Cooke himself, the song is widely regarded as one of the most influential pieces of the civil rights movement. It combines Cooke’s smooth, emotive vocals with a stirring orchestral arrangement, creating a deeply moving and hopeful anthem for change and equality.
Inspired by Cooke’s own experiences with racial discrimination and the broader social climate of the time, the song’s lyrics express a profound sense of longing and optimism for a better future. “A Change Is Gonna Come” is celebrated for its emotional depth, lyrical significance, and Cooke’s masterful delivery, cementing its place as a timeless classic and a symbol of hope and perseverance.