Macon-Bibb dedicates Otis Redding Way on soul legend’s 85th birthday
The honorary designation covers portions of Cotton Avenue and Mulberry Street Lane near 436 Cotton Avenue.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Macon-Bibb County honored music legend Otis Redding on what would have been his 85th birthday Wednesday by dedicating portions of Cotton Avenue and Mulberry Street Lane as Otis Redding Way.
It’s a tribute that keeps Redding’s connection to Macon alive for generations to come.
“Who knew I would be able to stand here and proudly, with my family and amazing team, and say that we are still honoring the legendary Otis Redding,” said Karla Redding-Andrews.
For Redding’s daughter, this dedication is a deeply personal moment that holds special meaning for her and her entire family.
“I think my parents could have lived anywhere in the world; they could have gone anywhere,” she said. “But you know what we love? We love Macon, Georgia, and Macon, Georgia has always loved us. We cannot thank you enough for the support, the dedication and commitment, that you not only give Otis Redding, but you give to the importance of the music and arts education that we provide in this community.”
Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller says Redding’s legacy can still be felt throughout Macon, with his lasting impact on the community he helped shape.
“I’m sure he didn’t think about the fact that we were going to have Rhythm and Rally,” Miller said. “When you think about Rhythm and Rally, its pickleball, right? But where do you think the rhythm comes from? It comes from great men like Otis Redding. And as you fly into our new airport, and you see the art there, who are we talking about? We’re talking about Otis Redding. Yeah, there are many others, and we will talk about them in due time, but just think about the mark that he left.”
To continue the celebration of Otis Redding, the fifth annual King of Soul Festival will take place Friday, September 11, starting at 8 p.m. at the Robins Financial Capitol Theatre, and Saturday, September 12, at the Macon City Auditorium starting at 6:30 p.m.
