December 10, 1967: The day we lost Otis Redding.

[NightTrain]

The Big O was flying to a gig in Wisconsin when his plane went went down, killing Redding and all but one member of his labelmates, the Bar-Kays.

In the previous five years, Redding's hits had included "These Arms of Mine," "That's What My Heart Needs," "Pain In My Heart," "Security," "Mr. Pitiful," "Come To Me," "I've Been Loving You Too Long," the original version of "Respect," "I Can't Turn You Loose," "Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Songs)," "My Lover's Prayer," "Try A Little Tenderness," and a duet with Carla Thomas, "Tramp." A few months after Redding's untimely death, he had his only #1 hit, "(Sittin' on the) Dock of the Bay," recorded just three days before he died.

Redding also wrote and produced Arthur Conley's #2 smash, "Sweet Soul Music," and was looking into forming his own record label. Plus, he was on the verge of major crossover success following Redding's well-received performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival. With all those accomplishments, it's hard to believe the man lived only 26 years.

Rest in peace, Brother Otis! We need your soulful music now more than ever.

[flamingyouth]

1. RIP, Otis

My main man. :thumbsup:

[NightTrain]

3. On this week's SOUL EXPRESS, I'll be doing a Redding tribute.

[flamingyouth]

4. Cool

He's one of my all-time faves. I play his boxed set all the time.

[johnnie]

2. His last public appearance was here in Cleveland

He did a television show I believe and was flying from here. Great voice on that guy, it's sad that he was gone so quick.

[CO Liberal]

5. Otis Recorded "Sittin' On The Dock Of The Bay"...

...just days before he died.