Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Cathy Wurzer

Otis Redding's last recording topped the charts

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Otis Redding began writing "(Sittin' on the) Dock of the Bay" while he was living in a rented houseboat near the Golden Gate Bridge. While relaxing after a grueling tour, he was inspired by seeing the ships going in and out of San Francisco Bay.

50 years ago today, Redding finished recording the song. Three days later he was killed in a plane crash. "(Sittin' on the) Dock of the Bay" was released in January of 1968 and became the first posthumously-released song to top the charts.

To listen to a portion of the song, click the audio player above.