# What is the best Otis Redding album of all time?

> His output spans raw Southern soul ballads, explosive live performances, tender duets, and the crossover pop that defined him posthumously. Where do you stand?

*By YPB Team · Published April 16, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/what-is-the-best-otis-redding-album-of-all-time*

---

## Current results (no votes yet)

1. **Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul**
   Otis Redding's definitive 1965 album featuring covers of Sam Cooke and Smokey Robinson alongside originals, widely considered his masterpiece.
2. **The Dock of the Bay**
   Otis Redding's 1968 posthumous album featuring his greatest crossover hit '(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay,' released after his tragic death.
3. **King & Queen**
   Otis Redding and Carla Thomas's celebrated 1967 duet album featuring the hit 'Tramp' — a showcase of raw Southern soul chemistry.
4. **Live in Europe**
   Otis Redding's electrifying 1967 live album recorded at the Stax/Volt European Tour, capturing the raw energy of his legendary stage presence.
5. **Dictionary of Soul**
   Otis Redding's 1966 album subtitled 'Complete & Unbelievable,' featuring 'Try a Little Tenderness' in its most famous recorded version.
6. **The Soul Album**
   Otis Redding's urgent 1966 Stax album recorded quickly but full of rawness, featuring his gripping interpretation of 'It's Growing.'
7. **Pain in My Heart**
   Otis Redding's 1964 debut album establishing his gritty Southern soul style with powerful covers of Sam Cooke and Little Richard.
8. **Immortal Otis Redding**
   Otis Redding's 1968 posthumous album collecting late recordings that showed his evolving style and crossover ambitions.
9. **Soul Ballads**
   Otis Redding's 1965 tender ballad album showcasing a softer side of his voice on standards and originals.
10. **Otis Redding in Person at the Whisky a Go Go**
   Otis Redding's raw 1968 live album recorded at the legendary Los Angeles club, showing his electrifying live intensity.

Tags: r&b, music, 60s, soul, otis redding