Sittin’ in the mornin’ sun
I’ll be sittin’ when the evenin’ come 🎵

Otis Redding wrote those words for “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay.” He recorded it in 1967. A few days later, the singer from Macon, Georgia, died in a plane crash. His song became a #1 hit in 1968. Fifty years later, his music is as powerful as ever.

“My father was the King of Soul,” said his son Otis Redding III. “Notice the passion in his voice,” he said. “And the honesty.” Otis’ emotional singing became a symbol for soul music. You can hear it in songs like “Try a Little Tenderness.”

Many artists adopted Redding’s work. Aretha Franklin had a huge hit with “Respect.” And lots of bands have rocked “Hard to Handle.” So Otis Redding wasn’t just an amazing singer. He was a legendary songwriter too.

“His songs had lessons for everyone,” said David Fricke from Rolling Stone. Redding has had an impact on modern music. “Every rapper today with a positive message has roots in Otis Redding,” Frick added.

After 50 years, Otis’ music is still alive. Students perform his songs. And musicians just played a show at the Apollo Theater in New York City. The event was “An Evening of Respect: Celebrating Otis Redding.” Karla Redding Andrews said it was “about our father’s legacy.”

Otis Redding III says kids can learn from his father. “Make your presence strong,” he said. “Have passion for your craft. And do it from your heart,” he added. “You will succeed.”

Now, I’m just sittin' on the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Oooo-wee, sittin’ on the dock of the bay
I'm wastin’ time


Updated February 5, 2018, 5:01 P.M. (ET)
By Russell Kahn (Russ)