BLUES N'AT

Otis Redding had a voice that could send chills down your spine. "Mr. Pitiful" was the epitome of the Stax Sound and became synonymous with the world-renowned Memphis-based soul studio. Before he became "The Big O", Otis Redding was born in Dawson GA on September 9, 1941. Otis learned multiple instruments as a child, the piano, guitar and drums and cut his teeth singing in church choirs. He eventually worked his way up to singing gospel songs on a Sunday radio program in Georgia.  He quit school at 15 to begin performing as well as working various day jobs to financially assist his family. Otis listed legends Little Richard and Sam Cooke among his inspirations. Eventually, Otis came up performing with his idol, Little Richard's band, the Upsetters. From there, Otis played with the Pinetoppers and worked his way to Stax Records. Stax released his debut single, "These Arms of Mine" in 1962. That was followed 2 years later by his first album, "My Heart". From there, Otis' career began to build steam, touring the south before branching out west and to Europe. Along the way, Otis enjoyed many famous collaborations, Carla Thomas and Booker T & the MGs, among them. Otis continued to tour, impressing audiences from the legendary Apollo Theatre in Harlem to his star-making turn at the Monterey Pop Festival, one of his final performances. He enjoyed many hits along the way, notably "Try a Little Tenderness", "Respect" and his version of the Rolling Stones' "Satisfaction". The "King of Soul's " greatest hit would come following his untimely death in a plane crash in Madison, WI on December 10, 1967. "(Sittin' on)The Dock of the Bay" was released in January 1968 and became Otis' only #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Over 45 years after his passing, Otis continues to receive posthumous honors and accolades. It's a testament to the depth of his tremendous voice and talents. He was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. The United States Post Office released a commemorative stamp in his honor in 1993 and he was awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.  Otis Redding deserves all the "Respect" he received. There will never be another Otis. Sit up and take notice. Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!