Otis Redding was an influential American singer, songwriter, and record producer, born on September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia, and tragically died in a plane crash on December 10, 1967. Redding is widely regarded as one of the greatest soul singers of all time, known for his powerful, emotive voice and dynamic stage presence.
Redding’s music is characterized by its deep, soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics. Some of his most famous songs include “Sittin’ On The Dock of the Bay,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” “Respect,” and “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long.” His version of “Respect” was popularized by Aretha Franklin, but Redding’s original recording remains a seminal piece of soul music.
Despite his career being cut short, Otis Redding’s impact on soul and R&B music has been profound, and his recordings continue to influence and inspire artists across genres.
1. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” is a landmark soul song by Otis Redding, released posthumously in 1968. Co-written by Redding and Steve Cropper, the track was recorded just a few days before Redding’s tragic death in a plane crash.
The song features a reflective and contemplative mood, with Redding’s expressive vocals conveying a sense of introspection and melancholy. The lyrics describe a feeling of solitude and longing, as the narrator watches the world go by from a dock, contemplating life and the passage of time.
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” became Redding’s most commercially successful single, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a timeless classic. Its blend of soulful melody and poignant lyrics has solidified its place as one of Redding’s signature songs and a staple in the soul genre.
2. Respect
“Respect” by Otis Redding is a seminal soul track released in 1965. Written by Aretha Franklin’s sister, Carolyn Franklin, and originally recorded by Redding, the song features his powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The lyrics express a demand for respect and recognition, with a compelling call for personal dignity and validation. Redding’s version is known for its raw, heartfelt performance and its blend of soul, rhythm, and blues.
The song was famously covered by Aretha Franklin in 1967, whose version became an anthem of empowerment and significantly influenced its legacy. Redding’s original recording, however, remains a classic in its own right, celebrated for its emotional depth and its contribution to the soul genre.
3. I’ve Been Loving You Too Long
“I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” by Otis Redding is a classic soul ballad released in 1965. Written by Jerry Butler and Bettye Crutcher, the song features Redding’s soulful and emotive vocal delivery. The lyrics express a deep, enduring love that has persisted despite the challenges and emotional pain that come with it. Redding’s performance is characterized by its heartfelt intensity and the song’s powerful build-up, capturing the essence of longing and commitment. The track showcases Redding’s ability to convey profound emotion through his music and remains a significant example of his influence on the soul genre.
4. Try a Little Tenderness
“Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding is a soulful and emotionally rich track released in 1966. Originally written by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly, and Harry M. Woods, Redding’s version became one of his signature songs. The track features a powerful blend of soul, rhythm, and blues, with Redding’s passionate and dynamic vocal performance at its core.
The lyrics advise a compassionate and attentive approach to love, emphasizing the importance of tenderness and understanding in relationships. Redding’s rendition is celebrated for its intense emotion, intricate arrangement, and its ability to convey the song’s message with both vulnerability and strength. “Try a Little Tenderness” remains a classic example of Otis Redding’s ability to infuse soul music with profound emotional depth.
5. These Arms of Mine
“These Arms of Mine” is a poignant soul ballad by Otis Redding, released in 1962 as his debut single. Written by Redding and his producer, Jim Stewart, the song features Redding’s deep, soulful voice delivering an emotive performance.
The lyrics express longing and vulnerability, as Redding sings about yearning for a loved one and the comfort he seeks in their embrace. The track is characterized by its heartfelt delivery and simple, yet powerful instrumentation, showcasing Redding’s ability to convey deep emotion.
“These Arms of Mine” established Otis Redding as a significant new voice in soul music and remains one of his classic and influential recordings. The song’s raw emotion and Redding’s distinctive vocal style have made it a lasting favorite among fans of soul and R&B.
6. Mr. Pitiful
“Mr. Pitiful” by Otis Redding is a dynamic and soulful track released in 1964. Written by Steve Cropper and Otis Redding, the song features Redding’s distinctive, powerful vocals and a lively, upbeat rhythm. The lyrics tell the story of a man who has been unsuccessful in love and is seen as a “pitiful” character due to his romantic failures. The track combines elements of soul, rhythm, and blues with a memorable horn section and Redding’s engaging delivery. “Mr. Pitiful” became one of Redding’s early hits, showcasing his ability to blend emotional depth with a compelling groove, and remains a significant part of his musical legacy.
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 Alfred “Pee Wee” Jackson, the track is known for its energetic rhythm, dynamic brass arrangement, and Redding’s powerful vocal performance.
The song features a driving beat and upbeat tempo, with Redding delivering a passionate and soulful performance that reflects the song’s themes of love and devotion. The lyrics express a strong sense of commitment and emotional intensity, as Redding sings about his inability to let go of a romantic relationship.
“I Can’t Turn You Loose” became one of Redding’s signature songs and has been widely praised for its infectious groove and expressive delivery. It remains a standout track in Redding’s discography and a classic example of his influential sound in the soul genre.
8. Shake
“Shake” by Otis Redding is a lively and energetic track released in 1965. Written by Otis Redding and his frequent collaborator Steve Cropper, the song features Redding’s powerful vocals and a dynamic rhythm that reflects the energetic and danceable style of the era. The lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and “shake” off their troubles, capturing the upbeat and infectious spirit of Redding’s performances.
With its strong rhythm section, vibrant brass, and Redding’s charismatic delivery, “Shake” showcases his ability to blend soulful emotion with a high-energy groove. The song stands out as a classic example of Redding’s influence on soul and R&B music.
9. Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)
“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)” is a soulful track by Otis Redding, released in 1966. Written by Redding along with Steve Cropper, the song is known for its expressive and melancholic tone, despite its upbeat rhythm.
The track features a driving rhythm section, a soulful brass arrangement, and Redding’s emotive vocal delivery. The lyrics reflect a sense of sadness and introspection, with Redding singing about the emotional weight of unfulfilled love and heartache. The repetitive and catchy chorus (“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa”) contrasts with the song’s reflective lyrics, creating a unique blend of mood and melody.
“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)” showcases Redding’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music and remains a notable example of his work during the peak of his career.
10. A Change Is Gonna Come
“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke is a poignant and powerful soul song released in 1964. Written by Cooke, the track was inspired by the struggles and hope associated with the civil rights movement. The song features Cooke’s emotive and soulful vocals, complemented by a rich orchestral arrangement that includes strings and a prominent horn section.
The lyrics reflect themes of perseverance and optimism, expressing a deep yearning for social change and justice. Cooke’s performance is deeply moving, conveying a sense of both vulnerability and strength. “A Change Is Gonna Come” is widely regarded as one of Cooke’s most enduring and impactful songs, and it has become an anthem for social change and the struggle for equality.