It was forty years ago today that Otis Redding and the plane carrying him and six others plunged into Lake Monona in Madison resulting in their unfortunate and untimely death. To quote Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, “Obviously, Madison might not necessarily want this honor,” but that doesn’t change the course of history, and it’s worth remembering what a landmark Redding was for soul music.

His catalog is filled with tearjerkers, built on the foundation of love, both love lost and love that is just out of reach. His best known number, “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay” was recorded just three days prior to his death, and, at least to me, is a song that is a summer staple. The songs in Redding’s catalog that I’ve always loved best are “These Arms of Mine,” “That’s How Strong My Love Is,” “I’ve Got Dreams to Remember,” and “Pain In My Heart.” Those songs, lyrically and emotionally, are among the most honest and heartbreakingly beautiful recordings that have ever captured a broken heart.

For the casual fan, you really need to look no further than picking up The Very Best of Otis Redding, which true to its name, captures the soul legend’s best material. My copy has the scratches and the coffee stains on the cover to prove its been a staple in my collection, or perhaps loaned out one to many times.

Otis Redding – “I’ve Got Dreams To Remember”