___ Redding, soul singer (4) Crossword Clue
Answer: OTIS (4 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "___ Redding, soul singer" with 4 letters is "OTIS".Otis refers to Otis Redding, a legendary American soul singer known for his powerful voice and hits like "Sittin' On The Dock of the Bay." His music has left a lasting influence on the soul and R&B genres, making him one of the most iconic figures in American music history.
Why "Otis" Fits
The clue asks for a four-letter first name completing “___ Redding, soul singer.” The answer, OTIS, fits perfectly:
- ___ Redding, soul singer: Otis Redding is the universally recognized American soul singer, famed for signature songs like “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay”—matching the clue’s requirements exactly.
- Direct match: With four letters, Otis fits the enumeration precisely.
- Precise meaning: The answer supplies the artist's first name, forming the full name of this legendary performer.
Otis Redding is celebrated in the history of soul, R&B, and American music:
Origin and usage:
- Born in 1941 in Georgia, Otis Redding became a leading figure in the soul music explosion of the 1960s, deeply influencing rock, pop, and blues as well.
- His music blended heartfelt vocals, tight horn sections, and deep emotional resonance.
Career and impact:
- Redding was best known for hits such as “Respect,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” and “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” released after his tragic death in 1967.
- He is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his music remains iconic.
Examples and context:
- “Otis Redding’s voice defined a generation.”
- “Many artists, from Aretha Franklin to The Black Crowes, cite Otis Redding as an influence.”
- “Otis Redding’s soulful delivery inspired multiple generations of singers.”
In quick crosswords like “___ Redding, soul singer (4),” clues for notable people commonly use short first names, helping solvers recognize well-known public figures from pop culture, history, or literature:
Definition: The clue gives the surname and profession or era, cueing a famous forename.
Clue type: Fill-in-the-blank for a celebrity, musician, or actor, with enumeration ensuring a unique match.
Solving approach:
- For four-letter male first names matching Redding, “Otis” is unique; other short first names (like “Elvis,” “Smokey,” “Marvin,” etc.) either don’t fit the surname or enumeration.
Crossword pattern: Personal name blanks—Otis, Cher, Adele, Dion—are common, offering easy entry for pop culture-savvy solvers.
