Check out these new and used Otis Redding vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Otis Redding vinyl collection with the essential albums Lonely & Blue, The Dock Of The Bay and Pain In My Heart. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from soul r&b musicians.

Otis Redding: The Soulful Sound of Vinyl

Otis Redding is a name synonymous with soul music, and his impact on the genre is immeasurable. This article delves into the soulful world of Otis Redding Vinyl, exploring the artist’s discography, influential albums, and the profound mark he left on the world of music.

Otis Redding: A Musical Journey

Otis Ray Redding Jr. was born on September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia. His musical journey began in the church choir, where his powerful voice caught the attention of those around him. Otis made his mark in the music industry during the 1960s, a time when soul music was finding its distinctive voice. Otis Redding’s impact on this genre was profound, and his contribution to the development of soul remains unparalleled. Here are the Otis Redding Tracks and Albums.

The Otis Redding Vinyl Collection

1. “Pain in My Heart” (1964)

Otis Redding’s debut album, “Pain in My Heart,” released in 1964, showcased the raw intensity of his vocals. The album comprised a mix of original compositions and covers, blending R&B, soul, and gospel influences. Tracks like “These Arms of Mine” and the title track, “Pain in My Heart,” established Redding as a force to be reckoned with in the soul music scene.

2. “The Great Otis Redding Sings Soul Ballads” (1965)

Released in 1965, this album revealed a softer side of Redding’s vocal prowess. “The Great Otis Redding Sings Soul Ballads” featured a collection of emotionally charged ballads, displaying his ability to convey deep sentiments through his music. Tracks like “That’s How Strong My Love Is” and “Mr. Pitiful” remain iconic examples of Redding’s soulful balladry.

3. “Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul” (1965)

A landmark album in Otis Redding’s career, “Otis Blue” showcased his versatility and musical range. The album featured a mix of covers and original compositions, blending soul, R&B, and even a touch of rock. The standout track, “Respect,” became a timeless anthem and was later famously covered by Aretha Franklin. “Otis Blue” solidified Redding’s status as a leading figure in the soul genre.

4. “Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul” (1966)

This album marked a departure from Redding’s earlier works, incorporating more orchestral elements and sophisticated arrangements. Released in 1966, “Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul” featured hits like “Try a Little Tenderness” and “Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song).” The album showcased Redding’s evolution as an artist, experimenting with new sounds while maintaining the soulful core of his music.

5. “King & Queen” (1967) – Collaboration with Carla Thomas

In 1967, Otis Redding teamed up with fellow soul artist Carla Thomas for the collaborative album “King & Queen.” The chemistry between the two vocalists was palpable, resulting in a collection of duets that captured the essence of soul. Tracks like “Tramp” and “Knock on Wood” became instant classics, showcasing the dynamic energy created by Redding and Thomas.

6. “The Dock of the Bay” (1968)

Released posthumously, “The Dock of the Bay” remains one of Otis Redding’s most celebrated albums. The title track, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” became an iconic song and a fitting epitaph for Redding, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in December 1967. The album blended soul, R&B, and a touch of folk, showcasing Redding’s ability to transcend musical boundaries.

Similar Soulful Sounds

While Otis Redding’s unique style sets him apart, several artists share a similar soulful vibe. Exploring these musicians can provide a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry that is soul music.

1. Sam Cooke

Often referred to as the “King of Soul” alongside Otis Redding, Sam Cooke’s smooth and emotive voice laid the foundation for the soul genre. Tracks like “A Change Is Gonna Come” and “Bring It On Home to Me” echo the emotional depth found in Redding’s work.

2. Aretha Franklin

The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, brought her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence to the genre. Much like Redding, Franklin’s ability to infuse emotion into her music made her a pivotal figure in the soul movement. Her cover of Redding’s “Respect” is a testament to the interconnectedness of their musical legacies.

3. Wilson Pickett

A contemporary of Redding, Wilson Pickett’s energetic and gritty performances contributed significantly to the soul and R&B scene. Hits like “In the Midnight Hour” and “Mustang Sally” showcase Pickett’s soulful delivery and his impact on the genre.

Otis Redding’s Enduring Legacy

Otis Redding’s influence extends far beyond his own time, shaping the trajectory of soul and R&B for generations to come. His emotional delivery, powerful voice, and poignant songwriting continue to inspire artists across genres.

1. The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones, often associated with rock and blues, drew inspiration from Otis Redding’s soulful sound. Their cover of Redding’s “Pain in My Heart” attests to the cross-genre appeal of Redding’s music.

2. Janis Joplin

The iconic rock singer Janis Joplin admired Otis Redding’s soulful approach and covered his songs, including “Piece of My Heart.” Joplin’s raspy and emotive vocals mirrored Redding’s intensity, showcasing the universality of his impact.

3. Redding’s Influence on Contemporary Artists

Contemporary artists such as John Legend, Amy Winehouse, and Adele have cited Otis Redding as a major influence on their music. His legacy lives on not only in the timeless nature of his recordings but also in the echoes of his style found in the works of these modern-day musicians.

Otis Redding’s vinyl collection serves as a testament to the enduring power of soul music. As listeners immerse themselves in the crackling warmth of his recordings, they are transported to an era where Otis Redding’s voice reigned supreme, leaving an indelible mark on the soulful landscape of music.