# Otis Redding

> American singer and songwriter (1941–1967)

**Wikidata**: [Q217839](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q217839)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otis_Redding)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/otis-redding

## Summary
Otis Redding was an American singer and songwriter who was a prominent figure in soul music, known for his powerful voice and influential recordings during the 1960s, earning him posthumous recognition including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

## Biography
- Born: September 9, 1941
- Nationality: United States
- Education: attended Q4851498 (institution not specified in source)
- Known for: influential soul music recordings and songwriting
- Employer(s): Stax Records, Atco Records, Atlantic Records
- Field(s): soul music, gospel music

## Contributions
Otis Redding made significant contributions to the development of soul music through his recordings and songwriting. His work with various record labels produced numerous influential songs and albums that helped shape the genre. He collaborated with different producers and artists while maintaining his distinctive vocal style and songwriting abilities.

## FAQs
**What record labels was Otis Redding associated with?**
Otis Redding was affiliated with multiple record labels including Stax Records, Atco Records, and Atlantic Records, which helped distribute his music to wider audiences.

**What awards did Otis Redding receive?**
He received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame recognizing his contributions to music.

**What genres of music did he perform?**
The source indicates his work primarily involved soul music and gospel music, with his recordings demonstrating his skill in these genres.

**When did his career begin and end?**
His professional work period started around 1958 and ended with his death in 1967.

## Why They Matter
Otis Redding's work had a profound and lasting impact on the development of soul music and popular music as a whole. His recordings helped establish the sound and style that would influence generations of musicians. His influence extended beyond his own career, as his work helped break down racial barriers in the music industry and provided a template for future artists. Without his contributions, the landscape of 1960s soul music and the evolution of popular music would have been significantly different.

## Notable For
- Received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- Had a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Worked with multiple major record labels including Stax Records
- Contributed to the development of soul music as a genre
- Died at age 26, which contributed to his posthumous legendary status

## Body
### Early Life
Otis Redding was born on September 9, 1941, in the United States. He attended educational institutions including Q4851498, though specific details about his schooling are not provided in the source material. His early life experiences likely influenced his musical development and style.

### Career Beginnings
Redding began his professional music career around 1958, establishing himself as a singer and songwriter. His work period ended with his death in 1967. Throughout his career, he worked with various record labels including Stax Records, Atco Records, and Atlantic Records.

### Record Labels and Affiliations
The source indicates Redding was affiliated with multiple major record labels:
- **Stax Records**: This appears to have been his primary label during his active career
- **Atco Records**: Another label with which he had recordings
- **Atlantic Records**: He also had recordings released through this label

These affiliations helped distribute his music and establish his career in the music industry.

### Musical Style and Genre
Redding's work primarily involved soul music and gospel music, as indicated by the source material. His recordings demonstrated his skill in these genres and helped define the sound of 1960s soul music.

### Awards and Recognition
Redding received significant posthumous recognition:
- **Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award**: Awarded for his contributions to music
- **Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction**: Recognizing his impact on the genre
- **Hollywood Walk of Fame star**: Honoring his career achievements

These recognitions highlight the lasting impact of his work on the music industry.

### Death and Legacy
Otis Redding died on December 10, 1967, at the age of 26. His untimely death contributed to his legendary status and posthumous recognition. The source indicates his work continued to influence musicians and the music industry long after his death.

### Work Period
His professional work period spanned from approximately 1958 until his death in 1967, during which he produced numerous influential recordings.

### Musical Influence
Redding's contributions helped shape the development of soul music and influenced many subsequent artists. His work demonstrated the power of authentic musical expression and helped establish new standards for recording and performance in the genre.

## References

1. Biographical Dictionary of Afro-American and African Musicians
2. BnF authorities
3. Integrated Authority File
4. [Source](https://otisredding.com/the-man/)
5. International Standard Name Identifier
6. MusicBrainz
7. Virtual International Authority File
8. CiNii Research
9. SNAC
10. Internet Broadway Database
11. Find a Grave
12. Discogs
13. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
14. Great Norwegian Encyclopedia
15. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
16. CONOR.SI
17. BBC Things
18. ISWC Network
19. Quora
20. Otis Redding Albums: songs, discography, biography, and listening guide - Rate Your Music. Rate Your Music
21. Golden
22. YouTube API