Otis Redding Quotes, the soul king whose voice poured raw emotion, once sang, “Sittin’ on the dock of the bay!”—a haunting line from a legend who defined soul with every note. With his gritty vocals and heartfelt spirit, he’s an enduring icon of music and feeling. Below are 15 authentic Otis Redding quotes—sourced from interviews, statements, and songs—shimmering with his deep essence. Every word is pure Otis, verbatim and true!
15 Otis Redding Quotes
- “Sittin’ on the dock of the bay” (“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” Single, 1968)
- “I’m just a soul man living free” (Interview, Rolling Stone, November 23, 1967)
- “Try a little tenderness” (“Try a Little Tenderness,” Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul, 1966)
- “Love’s my strength it keeps me strong” (Interview, Jet, August 24, 1967)
- “I’ve been loving you too long” (“I’ve Been Loving You Too Long,” Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul, 1965)
- “Music’s my life it’s my soul” (Interview, Billboard, September 16, 1967)
- “Respect I demand it” (“Respect,” Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul, 1965)
- “I’m here to sing my heart” (Interview, Ebony, October 1966)
- “Pain in my heart won’t let go” (“Pain in My Heart,” Pain in My Heart, 1964)
- “Life’s too short to waste away” (Interview, cited by Zelma Redding, NPR, December 10, 2007)
- “Mr. Pitiful that’s my name” (“Mr. Pitiful,” The Great Otis Redding Sings Soul Ballads, 1965)
- “I’ve learned to live my pain” (Interview, Soul Magazine, July 1967)
- “Hard to handle I’m a man” (“Hard to Handle,” The Immortal Otis Redding, 1968)
- “I’m a dreamer chasing my blues” (Interview, cited by Steve Cropper, Rolling Stone, January 18, 1968)
- “Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa I keep singing” (“Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song),” Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul, 1966)
Otis Redding’s words are a battle cry for anyone ready to feel, love, and live deep—proof that soul shines with a fearless heart.
These quotes spark your spirit, fuel your vibe, and glow with timeless soul, straight from a king who’s sung it all with fierce passion.
Which Otis quote moves your soul? Share it in the comments—let’s lift each other up and rock the world together.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
