Thursday marks what would have been Georgia native Otis Redding’s 80th birthday, and celebrations were planned throughout the state.
Gov. Brian Kemp signed a proclamation declaring Thursday “Otis Redding Day” in Georgia, and events were underway in Macon, according to WMAZ.
Redding, who was born in Dawson and grew up in Macon, is known for such hits as “Try a Little Tenderness” and “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.”
After attaining success, Redding, who was known as “The King of Soul,” bought a farm in Jones County, where he lived with his family until his plane crash death in 1967.
To commemorate the legendary soul singer’s milestone birthday, the Redding Estate, Otis Redding Foundation and others scheduled events in Macon and virtual tributes, according to WMAZ.
Macon and the Macon Arts Alliance started the tributes Sept. 3 with an art exhibit titled “Inspired by Otis,” according to WMAZ. Artists created pieces inspired by Redding and his legacy, the news outlet reported. The exhibit runs through Sept. 24, and masks are required, according to WMAZ.
The Otis Redding Museum and Foundation was scheduled to reveal a new collection of memorabilia including handwritten notes, photos, fan club cards and the original bandstand used by Redding during his shows, WMAZ reported.
DJ D-Nice was scheduled to host a virtual party at 8 p.m. Thursday on Instagram, according to WMAZ.
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