Otis Redding was an American soul singer, songwriter, and performer widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists in modern music history. Known for his raw emotional delivery and powerful stage presence, he became a central figure of 1960s soul and rhythm & blues before his life was tragically cut short. His music continues to define the sound of soul worldwide.
Otis Redding Quick Bio
- Full Name: Otis Ray Redding Jr.
- Date of Birth: September 9, 1941
- Place of Birth: Dawson, Georgia, USA
- Died: December 10, 1967 (aged 26)
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African American
- Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Producer
- Genres: Soul, R&B
- Height: approx. 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
- Years Active: 1958 – 1967
Early Life and Family
Redding was raised in Macon, Georgia, in a working-class family. His father was a Baptist church deacon and his mother worked to support the household. From childhood, Otis sang in church and participated in local talent shows, showing a powerful voice that quickly gained attention.
Family:
- Father: Otis Redding Sr.
- Mother: Rosa Redding
- Siblings: He had several brothers and sisters
Music Career Breakthrough
Redding’s career began in local bands before he signed with Stax Records in Memphis. His voice brought a new level of emotion to soul. His first major hit “These Arms of Mine” led to a string of classics that earned him national popularity.
His best-known songs include:
- Sittin’ On The Dock of the Bay
- Try A Little Tenderness
- Respect
- These Arms of Mine
- I’ve Been Loving You Too Long
- Hard to Handle
Redding was also a major performer at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival — a defining moment that introduced him to the rock audience and expanded his fame globally.
Style and Influence
Otis Redding’s voice combined gospel depth with R&B grit, creating a style that felt powerful and deeply human. His phrasing, breath control, and passionate delivery inspired generations of artists in soul, rock, and pop. He became known as the “King of Soul.”
Personal Life
Redding married his wife, Zelma Atwood, in 1961. They remained together until his passing and had three children: Dexter, Karla, and Otis Redding III. Despite his fame, he remained grounded in family values and southern roots.
Height & Appearance
He stood approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall with an athletic build, known for expressive stage presence, tailored suits, and charismatic movement during live performances.
Ethnicity
Otis Redding was African American and represented a key voice in Black American music culture. His achievements played a major role in bringing soul music to mainstream audiences worldwide.
Net Worth
At the time of his death in 1967, Redding’s estimated net worth was around $10 million (adjusted value today well over $100 million). Much of his estate earnings continue through publishing rights, royalties, and ongoing success of his catalog.
Tragic Death
On December 10, 1967, Redding’s plane crashed into Lake Monona in Madison, Wisconsin during bad weather. He and members of his band — the Bar-Kays — lost their lives. His final recording, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” released posthumously, became his biggest hit and one of the most iconic songs in history.
Legacy
Otis Redding’s influence spans decades. His songs are considered foundations of soul music. He opened doors for future artists and helped shape live performance energy and vocal expression in popular music. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and remains celebrated worldwide for unmatched artistic soul power.
Trivia & Facts
- Wrote “Respect,” later a legendary hit for Aretha Franklin
- One of the earliest soul performers to cross into mainstream rock audiences
- Known for recording most songs in one-take studio performances
- Posthumous hit “Dock of the Bay” was the first of his to reach No.1
- Owned his own airplane which he often flew to concerts
- His nickname was “Big O”
FAQs About Otis Redding
Who was Otis Redding?
An American soul singer known for some of the most powerful and influential recordings in music history.
What was his most famous song?
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” released after his death.
How old was he when he died?
26 years old.
Why is he important?
He helped shape soul and R&B into mainstream culture and inspired generations of singers around the world.
