Otis Redding (1941–1967)

Like many other reviewers, I think the song is a far more mature song than many chosen so far for this series. Where I differ from some of the others is in my opinion of the book. I treat the LyricPop series as books a parent (or a grandparent in my case) shares with a child, not simply gives to a child and then hope she understands. I think this book, and the song itself, opens some avenues to discuss what respect is and how some of the illustrations show situations where respect can show more sometimes not be expressed. In other words, by itself, this book likely would not mean much to small children. If that is what you buy books for, to babysit a child, then you might want to choose a different book in the series. If, however, you buy books like this to present opportunities to spend quality time with a child and help them learn about their world, this will be an excellent addition to your child's library. I would, however, suggest planning ahead of time how you want to frame the book. But that is a good idea for even the most self-explanatory books.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via Edelweiss. show less

A (Great).

The fourth (and final) posthumous Otis Redding studio album. Lots of artists who died early in this era had a string of posthumous albums. The crazy thing about Otis Redding is that his are all legit great albums. You wouldn't expect a living artist to keep up this level of quality over this many albums, and he does it with freaking outtakes.

Highlights: "Tell the Truth," "Demonstration," "A Little Time"

(Jan. 2026)

The soul singer's second posthumous album, featuring "The Happy Song."

5/4 (One of my favorites).

I put off getting this album for the longest time because I'd assumed it would be a hodgepodge compilation like the earlier Dock of the Bay. It is not. This is a proper album, as coherent, and as high quality, as the ones released in his lifetime.

Redding’s first album.

Writing technique: C
Writing musicality: A
Performance technique: B
Performance musicality: A
Arrangements: A
Coherence/concept: A
Pacing/listenability: A
Recording/mastering: A
Cover art: B

Enjoyment: A

GPA: 3.6/4