Otis Redding was born September 9, 1941 in Dawson, Georgia, the son of a Baptist minister. He was into gospel music early but after his family moved to Macon, he soon found jump blues and R&B, his interest keying on the popular star Little Richard at the time. He joined Little Richard's band, the Upsetters and competed in local talent shows for the $5 prize. He won the top prize 15 straight times before being barred from competing again. Continued...