The Original Version Of “Try A Little Tenderness” And Why They Almost Didn’T Record It

April 2, 2025

In the early days of rock and roll, a young artist named Otis Redding was determined to make his mark on the music world. He had a voice that could stir the deepest emotions in anyone who listened. But even with his incredible talent, there was doubt swirling around one of his most famous songs, “Try a Little Tenderness.” The original version had been written in 1932, and although it had been sung by some well-known artists like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra, it had never found a lasting home. Otis believed in its potential, but many others didn’t share his vision.

As Otis stood in the studio, he could feel the pressure mounting. His producers were unsure if the song would resonate with the audience. They thought it was too sweet and soft, not aligned with the hard edge that rock and roll was known for. Yet, Otis could hear something special in the melody. He could feel the weight of the lyrics, which echoed the importance of love, warmth, and understanding in relationships. Otis believed that tenderness was not a weakness but a strength. He had experienced the ups and downs of love himself, and he knew this song could touch people’s hearts.

With a small but passionate group of musicians behind him, Otis decided to take a risk. They started to infuse the song with a soulful sound that hadn’t been heard before. Otis poured his heart into every note, transforming the original into a raw, emotional masterpiece. The studio buzzed with energy as the musicians played, and Otis sang his soul out, letting each lyric flow through him like a river of emotion. It was a breakthrough moment, and he believed purposefully that the world needed to hear this version.

After weeks of hard work and determination, Otis finally pushed for the song’s release. When “Try a Little Tenderness” hit the airwaves, it was as if a storm had blown through the music scene. Audiences were captivated by Otis’s unique interpretation, and his version soared to the top of the charts. People who had never even considered the song before suddenly found themselves humming along, swept up in its magic. Otis’s career skyrocketed, leading him to become one of the most significant figures in soul music.

This journey wasn’t just about making a successful record; it was about believing in oneself when the odds were stacked against you. Otis proved that with passion, resilience, and a little bit of tenderness, you could change the world. The song became an anthem for love and compassion, encouraging people everywhere to embrace their feelings and show kindness to one another.

Otis Redding’s legacy lived on far beyond his untimely passing, reminding each new generation that music holds the power to connect us all. The story of “Try a Little Tenderness” is a testament to the magic that happens when you confront doubt with determination. It shows that sometimes, the most beautiful things can emerge from the most difficult moments. So whenever you hear that song, remember Otis Redding—his struggles, his heart, and his unforgettable spirit that continues to inspire us all to be a little more tender.