Celebrating Otis with an Evening of Respect

Atlanta, GA (November 5, 2009) – The Big “O” Youth Educational Dream Foundation and the Woodruff Arts Center of Atlanta hosted a star-studded musical tribute to honor the music and legacy of the immortal Otis Redding at Symphony Hall in Atlanta, Georgia.

The event featured performances and appearances from a host of entertainers and celebrity guests including Anthony Hamilton, Estelle, and Grammy-winning rapper, Ludacris.  Redding’s sons Dexter and Otis Redding III performed with Anthony Hamilton, and Estelle sang "Satisfaction," the Rolling Stones hit that became one of Redding's trademark songs.

Hosts for the event were R&B singing duo and husband and wife Kenny Lattimore and Chante Moore.  Redding's widow, Mrs. Zelma Redding and daughter Karla Redding were there to share in the celebration.  "It's just a wonderful evening. A true evening of respect. It's been a lot of hard work but it's all worth it. People have so much respect for him and they love him so much," said Zelma Redding.

“Otis accomplished so many things in his short life,” commented Mrs. Redding.  “He believed in education and while the world continues to appreciate his music, we are continuing to do our best to enrich the lives of young people by enabling them to continue their education through the many programs that we support.”

“The success of the foundation is rooted in the love and support that we have received over the years from the City of Macon, Bibb County and the Macon Convention and Visitors Bureau,” continued Mrs. Redding.  “We are proud to be honoring them at the Evening of RESPECT and acknowledging their continued support which includes the naming of the Otis Redding Bridge, the erection of the Otis Redding statue in Gateway Park and the critically-acclaimed exhibit, “I’ve Got Dreams To Remember”, in Otis’ honor at the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.”

The event was a fundraiser for The Big “O” Youth Educational Dream Foundation established in 2007.  For more information: visit www.otisredding.com or www.woodruffcenter.org or call 404-733-5000.