Is The History of Otis Redding a good place to start with Otis Redding?

Yes, The History of Otis Redding is recommended as a starting point for new Otis Redding listeners. Soulful melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing Redding's powerful voice and emotional depth across his classic tracks. Released in November 1967, this compilation album arrived during Otis Redding's rise to fame, following the success of his single 'Respect' earlier that year. At this point in his career, Redding had already established himself as a leading figure in the soul genre, and 'The History of Otis Redding' served to solidify his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his time.

Who is The History of Otis Redding for?

The History of Otis Redding works well if you're into heartfelt vocal performances throughout, steady pacing for easy listening and for soulful sing-alongs.

How many songs are on The History of Otis Redding?

The History of Otis Redding has 12 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Released 59 years ago this November

The History of Otis Redding

Otis Redding · 1967

31 min · 12 tracks · soul

Soulful melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing Redding's powerful voice and emotional depth across his classic tracks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Respect — This track became an anthem for both the civil rights movement and feminism, showcasing Redding's powerful vocal delivery and emotive storytelling.
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Try a Little Tenderness — Redding's rendition transforms this standard into a passionate plea, highlighting his ability to convey deep emotion through his dynamic vocal style.
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These Arms Of Mine — A poignant ballad that perfectly encapsulates Redding’s soulful sound, delivering raw vulnerability and longing through its heartfelt lyrics.
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I've Been Loving You Too Long Start here — This track showcases Redding's signature blend of pain and passion, making it one of his most enduringly popular performances.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

This compilation captures Redding's essence but lacks the cohesive narrative of a studio album.

What we noticed

Several songs incorporate prominent horn sections that enhance the soulful sound characteristic of the genre.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt vocal performances throughout
steady pacing for easy listening
for soulful sing-alongs
short tracks for quick enjoyment

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, sprawling albums
seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Consolidated Redding's early work, establishing his mainstream recognition.
Career context: Released in November 1967, this compilation album arrived during Otis Redding's rise to fame, following the success of his single 'Respect' earlier that year. At this point in his career, Redding had already established himself as a leading figure in the soul genre, and 'The History of Otis Redding' served to solidify his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his time.
Stylistic neighbors: Sam Cooke· Wilson Pickett· James Brown