On March 30, 2023, Otis Redding’s family attended the 2023 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia. Otis Redding’s daughter, Karla Redding-Andrews, accepted the four BMI Million-Air awards on behalf of the late legendary soul singer/songwriter.

The BMI Million-Air Awards acknowledge songwriters whose compositions have attained the uncommon milestone of surpassing one million broadcast radio plays. Otis Redding's songs "Sweet Soul Music" (with 4 million performances), "Hard to Handle" (with 7 million performances), "Respect" (with 7 million performances), and the incomparable " (Sittin' on) the Dock of the Bay" (with 12 million performances), which was also BMI's Song of the Year in 1968, earned Million-Air awards this year. Each song was initially composed and recorded in the 1960s.

Karla-Redding-Andrews, Vice President, and Executive Director of The Otis Redding Foundation, accepted the awards thanking BMI for their 60-year partnership and honored her mother, Zelma, for continuing to preserve the legacy of Otis Redding. “My Mom has protected this legacy for over 50 years and behind every good man there’s an even more powerful woman. Thank you, BMI, for this wonderful partnership that will continue for years to come when my kids are here.” Karla was referring to her sons Justin Andrews, who is currently the Director of Special Projects and Outreach for The Otis Redding Foundation and Jarred who is attending college.

Otis Redding received numerous honors including induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and being named Rolling Stone Magazine’s 21st Greatest Artist of All Time in 2004. He was committed to his community and provided scholarships and financial opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Middle Georgia prior to his death in 1967. In 2007, his wife Zelma Redding established the Otis Redding Foundation that provides music education, workshops, private and group lessons as well a public performances. The new 15,000 square foot Otis Redding Center for the Arts, which broke ground in September 2022, is scheduled to open in Macon, GA in 2024. This facility will house a newly designed music education space, equipment for young students and a state of the art performance space. The Otis Redding Museum will remain in its current location, 339 Cotton Avenue, Macon, Georgia and expand to a 2000 square feet with memorabilia from the private collection of Zelma Redding.  https://otisreddingfoundation.org

About the Otis Redding Foundation

The Otis Redding Foundation’s mission is to empower, enrich, and motivate all young people through programs involving music, writing and instrumentation. Each partnership and program sponsored since its inception in 2007 supports the philanthropic commitment of Otis Redding to empower and enlighten all young people to fulfill their dreams.

The Otis Redding Center for the Arts

The Otis Redding Center for the Arts is a multipurpose space open to students ages 3-18 who have a desire to explore their interest in all elements of music and the arts. Planning is well underway with a proposed opening in 2024 for the 15,000 square foot facility. The Center will be staffed with Macon’s finest musicians offering private music lessons in areas such as piano, audio engineering, strings, and more. Students are encouraged to go beyond and tap into their best effort. The Center believes in the vitality of music and the arts and continues to develop those avenues for youth. Partnerships with Mercer University, Middle Georgia State University, Georgia Southern University and more, help make these efforts possible for our students.

"It is with heavy hearts that the family of Otis Redding III confirms that he lost his battle with cancer last evening at Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, Ga. Otis was 59 years old. Please keep our family in your prayers at this time and please respect our privacy as we consume this huge loss. Arrangements will be announced at a later date." Karla Redding-Andrews

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame® and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees and GRAMMY® Award-winners, The Isley Brothers, just released a new single, “Last Time,” from their recent album, the critically acclaimed, Make Me Say It Again, Girl. The single coincides with the album being available on vinyl and CD on July 7, 2023 in the United States. It will be available on vinyl and CD worldwide on July 21st.

Also, the iconic duo announced the official launch of Ronald Isley’s new spirits brand, Ronald Isley Liquid Gold, which features an XO brandy and a vodka. This venture makes Isley and his wife, Kandy Isley, the first African-American spirits wholesalers and importers in the state of Missouri. Isley celebrated the release of the brand with a special appearance at a Taste of Black Spirits on June 30th in Brooklyn, NY. The event showcased Ronald Isley Liquid Gold and other Black-owned spirits companies.

Vinyl and CD copies of Make Me Say It Again Girl, which includes the #1 hit song of the same name featuring Beyoncé, alongside “Last Time” and other infectious tracks, are available at the Isley Brothers official website. Ronald Isley Liquid Gold can be purchased at https://ronaldisleyliquidgold.com/. Make Me Say It Again Girl marks the legendary group’s thirty-first original studio album. After more than 60 years of creating timeless music that’s loved all over the globe, The Isley Brothers show no signs of slowing down.

About The Isley Brothers

The Isley Brothers hold the distinction of having influenced artists from The Beatles to Ice Cube. They have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame®, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame®, and the GRAMMY® Hall of Fame. Their songs have also been included on President Barack Obama’s famous summer playlists. In addition to multiple GRAMMY® Awards, they have over 28 platinum albums and received the prestigious GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014. They’ve sold over 18 million albums and entered rarified air among “a select few groups to land on the Billboard Hot 100 with new music in five different decades.” And with generational smashes including, “This Old Heart Of Mine (Is Weak For You),” “Shout, Pts. 1 & 2,” “It’s Your Thing,” “Twist And Shout,” “Summer Breeze,” “Fight the Power,” “That Lady” and many more, The Isley Brothers remain one of the most loved and most sampled groups of all time.

The Otis Redding Foundation is proud to announce the inclusion of distinguished honorees and renowned talent for its highly anticipated 2nd Annual King of Soul Music Festival taking place on September 8th and 9th in the heart of Macon, Georgia. The Festival is a celebration of the timeless legacy of the legendary Otis Redding, who rose to prominence rooted in the heart of Macon. The festival aims to honor Otis Redding's influence on soul music and his profound impact on the world, while also supporting the Otis Redding Foundation's mission to empower and uplift young musicians through music education.

The Foundation recently announced they will be honoring songwriter, producer, DJ and entrepreneur, Jermaine Dupri, with the prestigious Otis and Zelma Redding Award of Respect for his profound contributions to the world of music and entertainment.

"In addition to Jermaine, we are excited about honoring Roderick Cox with The Otis Redding Foundation DREAM Award. We have known Roderick since he was a young man and he continues to follow his DREAM and is sharing the journey with others," stated Karla Redding-Andrews, Vice President, and Executive Director of the Foundation. "Our entire family is proud of him and his musical accomplishments."

"Benjy Griffith does more than just care about his community. He helps to move it forward by supporting and encouraging youth throughout Macon-Bibb County,” continues Karla Redding-Andrews. "He will be the first recipient of The Otis Redding III Award of Philanthropy in honor of my brother, who recently passed away."

Roderick Cox - The Otis Redding Foundation DREAM Award:

Roderick Cox will be honored with The Otis Redding Foundation DREAM Award for his outstanding dedication to nurturing the next generation of classical musicians through scholarship funding and mentorship. Cox's work with the Roderick Cox Music Initiative has been deeply inspired by the support and encouragement he received from the Otis Redding Foundation, and he is committed to continuing his journey of uplifting others.

In recognition of this prestigious accolade, Cox shares his gratitude with the Macon community, stating, "I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Otis Redding Foundation for the 2023 Otis Redding Foundation DREAM Award. My musical journey would not have been possible without the foundation’s belief in me. My work with the Roderick Cox Music Initiative, to nurture the next generation of classical musicians through scholarship funding and mentorship, was inspired by my positive experience in Macon and by local angels like the Redding family. I am motivated to continue to 'lift as I climb' and I thank the Macon community for their enduring support."

Benjy Griffith – The Otis Redding III Award of Philanthropy:

Benjy Griffith will be honored with the inaugural Otis Redding III Award of Philanthropy, recognizing his exceptional philanthropic efforts and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on communities.

The mission of the Griffith Foundation, founded in 1993, is to inspire, encourage, and empower the citizens of Central Georgia by cultivating education and the arts, creating economic opportunity, and developing compassionate leaders. They support initiatives that best exemplify their understanding of social justice based on 3 strategic priorities: capacity building, individual and community empowerment, and creating opportunity.

“Mrs. Zelma Redding is and remains a mentor to me,” stated Benjy Griffith. “I worked for her as a college student and learned so much from her business savvy techniques and classy style. She has instilled in her family to be proud of their family legacy and most importantly, give back to the community that gives to you. That is also what the Griffith Foundation believes in as well!”

An “Evening of Respect” will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Macon City Auditorium. In addition to honoring Jermaine Dupri, Roderick Cox, and Benjy Griffith the following talent will pay tribute to the King Of Soul with their exceptional performances:

Orchestra Noir:

Orchestra Noir awarded ‘Best of Atlanta: Classical Meets Contemporary’ by Atlanta Magazine, will join forces with the Otis Redding Foundation to celebrate the life of Otis Redding through their innovative orchestral interpretations. As advocates for music education, Orchestra Noir has inspired countless young, minority musicians through their educational-centered concerts, collaborating with esteemed brands and artists including Atlantic Records, Lionsgate, YouTube Music, BET, and more.

"Otis Redding is a legend, and we are honored to team up with the Foundation to reimagine his music through our orchestral lens, " stated Maestro Jason Rodgers, Conductor of Orchestra Noir. “We are truly looking forward to the innovation stemming from this rewarding, yet herculean feat."

Jac Ross:  

American music artist Jac Ross, known for his distinct sound and creative style, will captivate festival attendees with his powerful performance. With multiple Grammy nominations and a repertoire of songs advocating for cultural, social, and political issues, Jac Ross embodies the spirit of iconic voices that have shaped culture throughout history. His soul-stirring music draws from personal experiences, delivering riveting and engaging performances that resonate deeply with his community.

"Performing at the 2nd annual King of Soul Music festival is an honor,” commented Jac Ross, “The Redding Foundation, family and of course Otis have had such a profound influence on my career."

Taj Mahal:

A celebrated Blues musician, Taj and Otis Redding became close friends when Taj opened for Otis in 1966. Taj is a very talented musician who plays the guitar, piano, banjo, and harmonica. Currently on tour only Taj has done much to reshape the definition and scope of Blues music by fusing it with sounds from the Caribbean, Africa, India, Hawaii, and the South Pacific. He is a three-time Grammy winner and has had 10 Grammy nominations over the course of his career as well as performing in numerous films, televisions shows and documentaries.

“I will always remember opening for Otis on tour in 1966 and we became great friends,” stated Taj Mahal. “His music continues to inspire me and musicians around the world. “I want to thank the Redding family for inviting me to participate in the Soul Music Festival this year. We’re going to have an amazing time.”

Anderson East:

Grammy-nominated for "All On My Mind," singer/songwriter, musician Anderson East hails from Athens, Alabama and is known for his classic Americana sound which fuses R&B, Gospel, and Country.

"Thank you for inviting me to perform at the Festival," commented East. "I have deep respect and admire Otis Redding and paying homage to him is an honor."

Rebel Rae:  

Rebel Rae, a talented R&B/Soul artist signed with Sony Music’s Orchard, is excited about performing at the King of Soul Festival. Hailing from the DMV, she has gained global acclaim as an emerging artist. Her EP, “Take All My Tears,” is set to be released on September 8, following her successful collaborations with renowned artists and remarkable live performances at various events and tours.

The DREAM Team, composed of talented young singers, songwriters, and musicians from the Middle Georgia area, will perform at “The Evening of Respect”.

Tickets for “The Evening of Respect” can be purchased at: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0E005EF3A9272FCF.

The “Big ‘O’ Homecoming Show “will be held at the Capitol Theatre on Saturday, September 9 with two soulful artists sharing their incredible talent:

Kendra Morris:

There is something undeniably out-of-time about soul-singer, songwriter Kendra Morris and her indelibly cool new album, I Am What I’m Waiting For, release date August 25, 2023. It combines rough -hewn powerhouse vocals with arrangements that betray both an extensive record collection and a whimsical instinct for joyous noises. It’s vibrant and varied and packed with personality. Kendra is currently on tour in the United States with upcoming Fall dates in Europe.

Alanna Royale:

“Alanna Royale makes beautiful, soulful music that urges you to dance, with deep lyrics and a rich voice full of emotion and power that can’t be ignored. She is the epitome of independence, strength, and confidence. Her music represents who she is as a person – someone who is more than aware of the necessary changes to our system but appreciates her place in life as a musician.” (What’s Up! Magazine)

Tickets for the “The Big ‘O’ Homecoming Show” can be purchased at: https://www.seetickets.us/event/The-Big-%22O%22-Homecoming-Show/565131?ttc=1481334 

The Otis Redding Foundation proudly presented the 2nd Annual King of Soul Music Festival, two days dedicated to celebrating the enduring influence of the legendary soul singer, Otis Redding. The festival, held on September 8th and 9th, 2023, at the Macon City Auditorium and Capitol Theatre, delivered an unforgettable tribute to Otis Redding's musical legacy and his profound impact on the world.

The performances at the 2nd Annual King of Soul Music Festival were nothing short of spectacular. The stage was ablaze with a mesmerizing array of talent, each act delivering a passionate and soul-stirring performance that resonated deeply with the audience. From the opening notes to the final encore, the festival was a celebration of soul music in its purest form. Friday's "Evening of Respect,” hosted by media personality/actress Symphony Thompson, featured Orchestra Noir, who paid homage to Otis Redding with stellar renditions of band favorites including "Can’t Turn You Loose" and "Dreams to Remember." The stage lit up with outstanding performances by Anderson East for "Down in the Valley" and "Ole Man Trouble," followed by the legendary Taj Mahal's powerful collaboration with the orchestra on "Amen" and "I’ve Been Loving You Too Long." R&B artist, Rebel Rae, further enriched the evening with soulful renditions of "Georgia" and "RESPECT."

The event's second half saw soul-stirring singer, Jac Ross, take the stage for electrifying performances of "Satisfaction," "That’s How Strong My Love Is," and "These Arms of Mine." The night reached its crescendo when Dexter Redding took the stage with a surprise performance of “Try A Little Tenderness” followed by a dramatic finale, as all guest artists joined forces, for heartwarming renditions of "My Girl" and "(Sittin’ On)  The Dock Of The Bay."

The "Evening of Respect" also featured well-deserved honors. Jermaine Dupri, renowned songwriter, producer, DJ, and entrepreneur, received the prestigious Otis and Zelma Redding Award of RESPECT for his exceptional contributions to the music industry.   The Otis Redding Foundation Dream Team, along with their coaches and alumni campers of the Otis Music Camp, and the world famous Rap Room performed an inspiring musical tribute to Jermaine.   

Conductor Roderick Cox was recognized with the Otis Redding Foundation DREAM Award for his unwavering dedication to nurturing young music artists through scholarship funding and mentoring. Additionally, Benjy Griffith was honored with the inaugural Otis Redding III Award of Philanthropy for his outstanding support and encouragement of youth in Macon-Bibb County.

The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd fully immersed in the music, swaying to the soulful beats and singing along to the timeless classics. Each artist brought a unique flavor to the stage, offering a diverse range of styles within the soul genre. From raw, gritty performances that harked back to the roots of soul, to smoother, contemporary interpretations, there was something for everyone. Saturday's "Big 'O' Homecoming Show" at the Capitol Theatre, hosted by Charles Davis, Morning Host of 100.9 “The Creek” and Justin Andrews, Director of Special Projects and Outreach for the Foundation, continued the festivities with soul-stirring performances from singer/songwriter Joshua “Jackson” Griffith, whose inspirations draw heavily from Otis Redding. Soul-singer and songwriter Kendra Morris, along with the captivating Alanna Royale, added their own unique flavor to the evening. Not only did the festival showcase established legends, but it also introduced emerging talents, providing a platform for the future stars of soul music. The seamless transitions between acts and the carefully curated lineup demonstrated a deep appreciation for the rich history and evolving landscape of soul.

On Sunday, September 10, 2023 the Knight Foundation awarded the Otis Redding Center for the Arts a generous $1.5 million grant for the integration of digital technology, propelling the center into a new era of innovation and accessibility.

Furthermore, the festival received high-profile proclamations, underlining its significance in the cultural landscape. Governor Brian Kemp, Mayor Lester Miller, and State Representative Dr. James Beverly all bestowed honors upon the event, acknowledging its profound impact and contribution to the world of soul music. These commendations further solidified the festival's position as a beacon of artistic excellence and a cultural treasure.

The Otis Redding Foundation's mission is to empower, enrich, and motivate young people through programs involving music, writing, and instrumentation. Since its inception in 2007, the foundation has tirelessly worked towards fulfilling Otis Redding's philanthropic vision of enabling and enlightening young individuals to pursue their dreams.

For more information about the Otis Redding Foundation and its programs, please visit https://otisreddingfoundation.org.

About the Otis Redding Center for the Arts:

The Otis Redding Center for the Arts, set to open in 2024, will provide a dynamic space for students ages 5-18 to explore their passion for music and the arts. Offering private music lessons in various disciplines, the center is staffed by Macon's finest musicians, dedicated to nurturing young talent and encouraging them to achieve their best.

Stay connected to the Otis Redding Foundation:

Website:  https://otisreddingfoundation.org

Instagram:  @otisreddingfoundation

Twitter:  @Otisredding

Facebook:  @Otisreddingfoundation

Five-time GRAMMY®️ Award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame®️ Inductee Janet Jackson will perform a full-length show for AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s (AHF) World AIDS Day Concert at NRG Arena in Houston, Texas on December 1, 2023. Ticket sales from the concert will benefit HIV/AIDS awareness and are available online through Ticketmaster starting Monday, October 16, 2023.
 
World AIDS Day is an annual commemorative event to honor those we’ve lost to HIV/AIDS, to show support for those currently living with HIV/AIDS, and to emphasize the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over. Emmy, Grammy, and Golden Globe winning choreographer, director, and producer Debbie Allen will speak at the event, and AHF will present its Lifetime Achievement Award to Emmy Award winning actor and activist Blair Underwood.
 
Janet Jackson’s December 1st performance comes on the heels of her North American Together Again tour, the highest grossing tour ever in her career, which derives its name from Jackson’s 1997 hit song “Together Again” – the artist’s personal tribute to a friend lost to AIDS as well as AIDS victims and their families worldwide.
 
AHF Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Blair Underwood has been a powerful voice in the fight against HIV/AIDS for more than three decades.  The award-winning television, film, and stage actor cofounded Artists for a New South Africa, an organization addressing the devastating impact HIV/AIDS has on families and children throughout the continent. In 2003, Underwood joined Ashley Judd as a spokesperson for YouthAIDS, and he since has expanded his advocacy in partnership with AHF, particularly in Washington, D.C., which has the most HIV cases per capita and nearly three times the national rate.

Past performers at AHF’s World AIDS Day include Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, and Mariah Carey. The global HIV/AIDS organization has presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to a diverse array of advocates including Harry Belafonte, Debbie Allen, and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and posthumously to Princess Diana.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the world’s largest HIV/AIDS healthcare organization, provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to more than 1.8 million individuals across 45 countries, including the U.S. and in Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region, and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, visit us online at AIDShealth.org, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, and subscribe to our AHFter Hours podcast.

The Otis Redding Foundation is thrilled to announce that the five-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, producer, television personality, and entrepreneur, CeeLo Green, will be a special guest at the Foundation's annual O'Tis The Season holiday benefit concert and fundraiser, which takes place on December 9th at the historic Capitol Theater in Macon, Georgia.

The O'Tis The Season benefit concert is a cornerstone of the foundation's end-of-the-year holiday fundraising efforts. Proceeds from ticket sales for the concert will be dedicated to furthering music and arts programs for students, as well as supporting the construction of the new Otis Redding Center For The Arts.

“We’re excited to have CeeLo as our special guest at O’Tis The Season this year,” stated Karla Redding-Andrews, Vice-President, and Executive Director of the Foundation. “With it being such a pivotal year for our capital campaign for the new Otis Redding Center for The Arts, having CeeLo participate could not highlight our holiday season any better.”

Hosting the evening's festivities is Justin Andrews, Director of Special Projects, and Outreach at The Otis Redding Foundation. In addition to CeeLo Green's headlining performance, the event will feature captivating performances by the Foundation’s students, the DREAM Team, and the World-Famous Rap Room.

CeeLo Green, a passionate advocate for children's education, founded the GreenHouse Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making "green education" more accessible to students in underserved school districts. The foundation's mission perfectly aligns with The Otis Redding Foundation's commitment to providing children with the support they need to achieve their goals.

The Otis Redding Center for the Arts

The Otis Redding Center for the Arts is a multipurpose space open to students ages 3-18 who have a desire to explore their interest in all elements of music and the arts. Planning is well underway with a proposed opening in 2024. The Center will be staffed with Macon’s finest musicians offering private music lessons in areas such as piano, audio engineering, strings, and more. Lessons will be complemented by the curricula of various year-round programs dedicated to musical literacy, musical instrumentation, mathematical components of music, etc. Students are encouraged to go beyond and tap into their best effort. The Center believes in the vitality of music and the arts and continues to develop those avenues for youth.

Planning for the Otis Redding Center for the Arts has been made possible through the guidance and investments of organizations such as the Knight Foundation, Peyton Anderson Foundation, Community Foundation of Central Ga., Cox Communications, and others who support the music and arts initiatives.  The Otis Redding Foundation also has several regional and national partners such as GA Council for the Arts, Gretsch, Concord Music Group, Warner Music Group, South Arts and Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI). All these partnerships align with the mission and goals of the Foundation.

About the Otis Redding Foundation

The Otis Redding Foundation’s mission is to empower, enrich, and motivate all young people through programs involving music, writing and instrumentation. Each partnership and program sponsored since its inception in 2007 supports the philanthropic commitment of Otis Redding to empower and enlighten all young people to fulfill their dreams.

For more information about The Otis Redding Foundation, and to purchase tickets to O'Tis The Season, please visit: https://otisreddingfoundation.org/programs/otis-the-season.

World-famous, award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress Janet Jackson performed a full-length show before a sold-out crowd packed with ecstatic fans for AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s (AHF) World AIDS Day Concert at NRG Arena in Houston, Texas Friday night. She opened the show with her 1997 hit song “Together Again” – a personal tribute to a friend lost to AIDS as well as others affected by the virus.

Rapper Willie D of the Geto Boys, recording artist and producer BeatKing, rapper Yungstar of the Screwed Up Click, renowned restaurateur Steve Rogers, U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, and prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump were among the evening’s celebrity and VIP attendees.

World AIDS Day is an annual commemorative event to honor those we’ve lost to HIV/AIDS, to show support for those currently living with HIV/AIDS, and to emphasize the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over. Ticket sales from the concert benefit AHF’s HIV/AIDS awareness.

Emmy, Grammy, and Golden Globe winning choreographer, director, and producer Debbie Allen received a standing ovation as she took the stage to present an In Memoriam tribute, honoring those we’ve lost to AIDS over the past 40 years, including her beloved “boys from Fame.” The audience also was on its feet and cheering as AHF presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to Emmy Award-winning actor and activist Blair Underwood, a powerful voice in the fight against HIV/AIDS for more than three decades.

“The global HIV/AIDS response has fallen short over recent years due to COVID-19 and other competing global crises,” said Michael Weinstein, AHF President and Cofounder. “AHF holds this annual World AIDS Day event to draw attention to the cause because it’s not over. We call on all nations and global public health institutions to ensure the adequate resources and political will are available to fight HIV/AIDS.”

While 29.8 million people living with HIV – of 39 million worldwide -- now receive lifesaving treatment, the work continues. AHF will reach two million lives in care by early 2024.

Past performers at AHF’s World AIDS Day include Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, and Mariah Carey. The global HIV/AIDS organization has presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to a diverse array of advocates including Harry Belafonte, Debbie Allen, and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and posthumously to Princess Diana.

“Nicknamed the “King of Soul,” Otis Redding is regarded as one of the greatest singer-songwriters in the history of American popular music and a seminal artist in soul music, rhythm and blues," stated Otis' wife, Zelma Redding.

Sunday, December 10th marks 56 years since Otis Redding passed away in an airplane crash in Madison, WI with four members of his band, The Bar-Kays (guitarist Jimmy King, tenor saxophonist, Phalon Jones, organist, Ronnie Caldwell and drummer Carl Cunningham; their valet, Matthew Kelly and the pilot Dick Fraser. Trumpet player, Ben Cauley was the only survivor.

Otis has received numerous honors over the past 56 years including Two Grammy Awards, A Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award (Legacy Tribute Award) and Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame (Foundational Inductee). Redding is also number 9 on Rolling Stone’s 200 Best Singers of All Time (January 2023).

The Otis Redding Foundation, founded by Mrs. Zelma Redding to continue his commitment to education for young people with a focus in music and the arts, would like to thank radio, television, print media and social media for their continued support of Otis’ music. The Foundation is well underway for the opening of the new Otis Redding Center for the Arts, in Macon, GA, in the Fall of 2024. This multipurpose space will be open to students 5-18 who have a desire to explore their interest in all elements of music and the arts. The Center will be staffed with Macon’s finest musicians and educators offering private lessons in areas including piano, audio engineering, strings and more.

Since its inception in 2007, the Foundation continues to support the philanthropic commitment of Otis Redding to empower and enlighten all young people to fulfill their dreams.

Stay connected to Otis Redding:

Instagram: @otisredding

Facebook: @ Otis Redding

Twitter/X: @OtisRedding

TikTok: @otisredding

YouTube: @otisredding

Stay connected to the Otis Redding Foundation:

Website: https://otisreddingfoundation.org

Instagram: @otisreddingfoundation

X: @Otisredding

Facebook: @Otisredding foundation

The Otis Redding Foundation held their annual O’Tis The Season holiday benefit concert with a packed house at the historic Capitol Theatre in Macon, GA on Saturday night. The unforgettable night featured a stellar performance by five-time Grammy Award-winning artist CeeLo Green, who mesmerized the audience with his unmatched musical prowess. The event was hosted by Justin Andrews, Director of Special Projects, and Outreach at the Otis Redding Foundation together with radio host Charles Davis from 100.9 The Creek FM in Macon.

River Edge Behavioral Health joined forces with the Foundation for a heartwarming toy drive, in which attendees brought new, unwrapped toy donations for children ages 5-18. O’Tis The Season played a vital role in fundraising initiatives, with all ticket proceeds going to the Otis Redding Foundation’s student programs and the construction of the new Otis Redding Center For The Arts.

CeeLo's dynamic setlist featured, "Bright Lights Bigger City," his Grammy Award-winning song "Crazy," "Old Fashioned," "I'll Be Around," Otis Redding's classic "Merry Christmas Baby" and concluded with a soulful rendition of "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay." The event continued with special performances from the Otis Music Camp’s World-Famous Rap Room, Zach Wilson and the Otis Redding Foundation House Band and Reese Soul, who is also the Foundation’s chief audio-visual engineer.

"We kicked off the holiday season with an amazing ‘O'Tis The Season’ concert and want to thank CeeLo Green for an incredible performance," stated Karla Redding-Andrews, Vice President & Executive Director of the Otis Redding Foundation. “Everyone who purchased tickets and participated in the Toy Drive played an important role in the construction of the new Center and brought joy to the life of a child during this holiday season.”

The evening preceded the 56th anniversary of the untimely passing of Otis Redding, December 10, 1967, reminding everyone of the power of his music and his commitment to helping young people fulfill their dreams.