Otis Redding is one of the most famous soul and R&B singers of all time. Popularly named the “King of Soul, “ Redding’s family moved to Macon shortly after he was born in 1941. In his time Redding created several hits such as “Shake” and “(Sittin’On) The Dock of the Bay.”His legacy has lived past his death with famous artists like Kayne Wes sampling “Try a Little Tenderness” in his 2011 album “Watch the Throne” and famous movies like “Top Gun.” Although he was most famously known for his music, Redding also had a strong effort for youth education before he died in a 1967 plane crash. A new arts center dedicated to Redding has opened in downtown Macon. Here are Five Facts about Ottis Redding to know before you go!
1. Redding’s breakout as a musician came from another Macon local
Otis Redding participated in his first major talent contest in 1958 where he performed Little Richard’s “Heebie Jeebies.” Little Richard, another born and raised Maconite is attributed to Redding’s beginning success. Redding won the contest that week, and ended up continuing to win for 15 straight weeks, which led him to be invited to become the main singer for Pat T. Cake and the Mighty Panthers.
2.Reddings first hit was not “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay”
Although this song is what most people think of when reflecting on Ottis Redding’s music, Redding recorded his first song “These Arms of Mine” in 1962. The song became Redding’s first hit, reaching No. 20 on the R&B chart in 1963.
3. Otis Redding had deep roots in education
Redding tragically passed away at the age of 26 in a plane crash on December 10, 1967. Redding and four other members of his band were heading to a Sunday evening concert in Madison, Wisconsin. Though he was extremely young, Redding contributed to youth education and before he died by giving out scholarships to students. His widow Zelma Redding continued this effort by helping form “The Otis Redding Foundation,” which is a space where youth can practice their musical abilities. This now includee the “Otis Redding Center for the Arts” which offers vocal, piano, strings, and percussion lessons and supports scholarships for youth.
4. Otis Redding was a farmer?
That’s right! Reddings success led him to purchase a 300-acre ranch in 1965, which is located right outside of Macon, Georgia. He named the ranch “Big O Ranch” and his widow Zelma Redding, has kept the property maintained and increased the acres to 460.
5.“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” was inspired by the Beatles
While performing at San Francisco’s Basin Street West in August 1967, Redding stayed on a houseboat. Here he listened to “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” by the Beatles. Between literally sitting on a dock and staring at the water along with the influence of this album, Redding wrote his most famous song.
