With the possible exceptions of gospel and some Appalachian music, there is no more moving American music than soul music. And while it’s hard to pick, say, the Top Ten soul singers, no list would be complete without Otis Redding.
Redding, who was born in Georgia less than a month before the U.S. entered World War II, had some amazing songs. He wrote Respect and later, after hearing Aretha Franklin’s version, reportedly said “well, I guess it’s that girl’s song now.”
He also wrote Hard To Handle, Mr. Pitiful, Sweet Soul Music and I’ve Been Loving You Too Long.