14 NOVEMBER 1966
The Otis Redding classic ballad 'Try a Little Tenderness' was released on this day in 1966. It peaked at #25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, #4 on the R&B chart, and #46 in the UK. Otis might be recognised as one of the Soul greats now, but during his lifetime he never enjoyed a Top 20 hit in the United States. This record, however, was deservedly placed in 204th position on Rolling Stone's 500 greatest songs of all time list.
This was quite an old song, first recorded in 1932 by the Ray Noble Orchestra and again in 1933 by Bing Crosby. Redding's version is notable for its slow, measured opening that gradually builds in intensity while adding elements from the Duke Ellington–Lee Gaines song 'Just Squeeze Me (But Please Don't Tease Me)'.
This was quite an old song, first recorded in 1932 by the Ray Noble Orchestra and again in 1933 by Bing Crosby. Redding's version is notable for its slow, measured opening that gradually builds in intensity while adding elements from the Duke Ellington–Lee Gaines song 'Just Squeeze Me (But Please Don't Tease Me)'.
B-side: 'I'm Sick Y'all'
Released: 14 November 1966
Recorded: Stax Studios, Memphis, Tennessee,1966
Highest chart position:
Length: 3:46 (Album version), 3:20 (Single version)
