The heirs to the Estate of late great Otis Redding Jr., have entered into an administration agreement with Sony Music Publishing covering Otis Redding’s vast music catalog.
The news was announced, as the HBO Original four-part documentary series “STAX: Soulsville, U.S.A.” premieres two episodes tonight, starting at 9-10 p.m. ET/PT.
Otis Redding, a prolific songwriter, and producer, is considered one of the most influential performers in the history of American popular music and a trailblazer in soul and rhythm & blues music due to his gospel-inspired, stylistic singing.
“For over 50 years I have been diligent to make sure Otis’ legacy remains relevant and recognizable around the world. I feel that the Sony Music Publishing team can assist my family in this never-ending effort”, states Mrs. Zelma Redding c/o Big O Holdings LLC.
Known as “The King of Soul,” he released his debut album, “Pain In My Heart” in 1964 which produced his first hit single, “These Arms of Mine.” The song reached #20 on the R&B charts, and was included on several soundtracks, and most prominently in the movie “Dirty Dancing.”
Otis Redding is known for other chart-topping hits including, “Respect,” (also a top hit for Aretha Franklin), “Try A Little Tenderness” and “Hard To Handle,” covered by the Black Crowes.
Prior to his untimely death, he co-wrote, with Steve Cropper, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay” which was released posthumously in 1968 following his death on December 10, 1967. The song hit #1 on the Pop and R&B charts and received two Grammy Awards in 1969.
A native of Macon, Georgia, Redding’s music continues to influence pop-culture and musicians in all genres as evidenced by artists including The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Jay-Z and Willie Nelson. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1994 and honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.
“As one of the most significant songwriters of our lifetime, Otis Redding remains an American treasure,” states Sony Music Publishing Chairman/CEO Jon Platt. “Otis’ songs have shaped the cultural landscape across genres and generations, and it is a privilege to partner with the Redding family as stateside custodians of this singular music catalog.”
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