Otis Redding – Try a Little Tenderness (1966)

About the song

Introducing “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding, a timeless soul classic that embodies the essence of love and compassion with its heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melody. Originally written by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly, and Harry M. Woods, Redding’s rendition of this iconic song has become the definitive version cherished by fans worldwide.

Featured on his album “Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul” released in 1966, “Try a Little Tenderness” quickly became one of Redding’s most beloved tracks. It soared to the top of the charts, reaching impressive positions on both the Billboard R&B chart and the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Otis Redding’s soulful delivery on “Try a Little Tenderness” showcases his unparalleled talent as a soul singer, earning him widespread acclaim and solidifying his status as one of the greatest voices in music history. The song’s enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in numerous compilations and soundtracks over the years.

With its message of love and tenderness, “Try a Little Tenderness” continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Otis Redding’s impassioned performance on the track remains a testament to his ability to capture the essence of human emotion through his music.

As we listen to “Try a Little Tenderness,” we’re reminded of the power of love to heal and uplift the soul. Otis Redding’s timeless rendition of this classic song remains a cherished gem in the rich tapestry of soul music, touching the hearts of listeners with its beauty and sincerity.

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Lyrics

Oh she may be weary
Them young girls they do get wearied
Wearing that same old shaggy dress, yeah, yeah
But when she gets weary
Try a little tenderness, yeah, yeah

You know she’s waiting
Just anticipating
The thing that you’ll never, never, never, never possess, yeah, yeah
But while she’s there waiting
Without them try a little tenderness
That’s all you got to do

It’s not just sentimental no, no, no
She has her grief and care, yeah, yeah, yeah
But the soft words they are spoke so gentle, yeah
It makes it easier, easier to bear, yeah
You won’t regret it no, no
Young girls they don’t forget it
Love is their whole happiness, yeah, yeah, yeah

But it’s all so easy
All you got to do is try
Try a little tenderness
Yeah
All you got to do is, man, hold her when you wanna
Squeeze her, don’t tease her, never leave her
Get to her, got, got, got to try a little tenderness, yeah, yeah
You got to know how to love her, man
Don’t be surprised, man
You got to squeeze her, don’t tease her, never leave
You got to hold her, brother, something, man
Try a little tenderness, yeah, yeah, yeah
You got to grab her gently, man
Don’t bruise her, no, no
You got to love her, tease her, don’t squeeze her
You got to try, na na na na na
Try, try a little tenderness, yeah
Watch her groove
You got to know what to do, man
Take this advice
You gotta love, squeeze, don’t tease