Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness” stands as one of the most iconic songs in soul music, a timeless track that showcases both his immense vocal talent and the emotive power of soul music in the 1960s. Released in 1966, this song has remained a touchstone in popular culture and a testament to Redding’s ability to convey deep emotion through his voice and performance. As with much of his work, “Try a Little Tenderness” goes beyond a simple love song—it captures the complexities of human emotion, the vulnerability in relationships, and the essence of tenderness itself.
The Story Behind “Try a Little Tenderness”
The origins of “Try a Little Tenderness” predate Otis Redding by more than three decades. Written in 1932 by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly, and Harry M. Woods, the song was initially performed by numerous artists during the early days of popular American music. The original version had a softer, more crooning style that reflected the music of that era. Artists such as Bing Crosby and Ruth Etting were among the first to record it, interpreting it as a gentle ballad in line with the romantic standards of the day.
However, it wasn’t until Otis Redding got his hands on the song that it truly became the masterpiece we know today. Redding, with his signature soulful style, reimagined the song completely. Rather than the gentle, crooning approach of earlier versions, Redding infused it with a raw emotional intensity that reflected his own artistic vision. His rendition was released in 1966 on the album Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul, and it quickly became a hit.
Otis Redding’s Interpretation: A Masterclass in Emotion
From the opening notes of “Try a Little Tenderness,” Redding establishes a mood that is both intimate and powerful. The song begins softly, almost as if whispering advice to the listener, with Redding’s voice tenderly imploring, “Oh, she may be weary, young girls, they do get weary.” In these initial moments, there’s a sense of quiet vulnerability, as if Redding is guiding the listener through the emotional landscape of a relationship.
But as the song progresses, it builds into a climactic explosion of emotion. Redding’s voice, gentle at first, grows more impassioned with each passing verse. By the time he reaches the chorus, there’s a sense of urgency in his voice—he isn’t just suggesting tenderness, he’s demanding it. His growls and vocal inflections give the song a sense of raw emotionality that few other singers could match. This progression from softness to intensity mirrors the emotions in the song’s lyrics, emphasizing how tenderness, patience, and understanding can lead to deeper connections in relationships.
This dynamic shift in the song is a hallmark of Redding’s genius. He understood how to use his voice not just to sing but to convey deep emotional truths. It’s a masterclass in vocal control and expressiveness, as he moves from soothing croons to heart-wrenching shouts without ever losing the song’s emotional thread.
A Testament to Soul Music
“Try a Little Tenderness” is often seen as a quintessential soul song, encapsulating the genre’s emphasis on emotional expression, vocal improvisation, and the blending of gospel, rhythm and blues, and pop influences. Soul music in the 1960s was more than just a genre—it was a cultural movement that gave voice to the struggles, hopes, and dreams of African Americans during a turbulent time in American history.
Redding’s version of the song is also notable for its arrangement. Backed by the Memphis Horns, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and a lush orchestral arrangement, the song’s instrumentation plays a crucial role in its emotional arc. The horns and strings build in intensity along with Redding’s voice, culminating in a triumphant finale that feels both cathartic and deeply moving.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Since its release, “Try a Little Tenderness” has been featured in numerous films, commercials, and TV shows, solidifying its place in popular culture. One of the most notable uses of the song was in the 1991 film The Commitments, where the Irish soul band in the movie performs a fiery cover of the track, paying homage to Redding’s version while bringing their own energy to it.
The song has also been covered by a wide variety of artists across different genres, from Three Dog Night to Jay-Z and Kanye West, who sampled the track for their hit “Otis” in 2011. These reinterpretations speak to the song’s lasting influence and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations and musical styles.
For Otis Redding, “Try a Little Tenderness” was one of many high points in a career tragically cut short. Redding died in a plane crash in December 1967, just a year after the song’s release. Yet his influence on music continues to be felt. Songs like “Try a Little Tenderness” have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest soul singers of all time, and his ability to convey deep emotion through his voice remains unmatched.
Conclusion
“Try a Little Tenderness” is more than just a song—it’s a showcase of Otis Redding’s incredible vocal prowess and a perfect representation of what soul music can achieve when it taps into the core of human emotion. Through its mix of vulnerability, intensity, and passion, the song offers a powerful message about love, patience, and understanding in relationships. It remains a timeless piece of music, one that continues to inspire both artists and listeners alike. As long as there are those who seek to express tenderness and care in their lives, Otis Redding’s voice will continue to serve as a guiding light.