Try A Little Otis On The Dock of The Bay

One of the most influential R&B singers of all time, Otis Redding, influenced many of the great artists of the 60's and 70's along with those even in the 90's and today's music scene.  Preforming only in the 60's before his tragic death in a plane crash in Wisconsin in 1967, he not only gained the respect of African Americans throughout the country, opening them to his "deep soul," style of singing yet also gained the respect of many white people and groups including The Rolling Stones.  Redding wrote many of his own songs inspiring many groups along with leading to many covers of his songs.  The Rolling Stones especially took part in this act with their covers of Redding's "That's How Strong My Love Is," and "Pain In My Heart."  Otis then returned the favor with his widely popular cover of the Stones hit "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction."  

The soulfulness and gruffness of Reddings voice really engages the audience he is performing for including me, making me lean slightly towards Reddings cover.  His prevalent horn use is also what makes his recordings so unique and stylistically brilliant.  Not only did he influence the Stones but also one of the most talented and famous female R&B singers of all time, Aretha Franklin.  Otis wrote and recorded the song "Respect," first yet it didn't reach its full potential until the Queen of Soul covered it. Respect- Otis Version Respect- Aretha Version

Otis also wrote and performed a song entitled "Hard To Handle," covered by one of my favorite bands from the 90's, The Black Crowes.  Although Redding performs the song more slowly containing clear cut entrances and exits with the melody, it still is an amazing song, even though it isn't as fast or "rocking" as The Black Crowes version.

Not only were Otis' songs frequently covered in the 90's influencing the artists, they also were referenced in today's current music as well.  One of his greatest hits, "Try A Little Tenderness," one of his most famous throughout his career, was featured on Jay-Z and Kanye West's album , Watch The Throne, on the first single, "Otis."  

Try A Little Tenderness- Otis Redding

Not only did Otis Redding influence the current artists of his time, with his soulful sound and lyrics he also influenced artists of later generations and decades, still maintaining his captivating and soul-filled feel for over 40 years.