The Reddings
The Reddings were an influential American funk, soul, and disco band formed in 1980 in Macon, Georgia. The group was founded by the sons of the legendary soul singer Otis Redding, namely Dexter Redding, who provided bass and vocals, and Otis Redding III, who played guitar and also contributed vocals. The Reddings were notable not only for their lineage but for their unique sound that blended elements of funk and soul, appealing to a wide audience throughout the 1980s.
The band achieved considerable chart success during their active years, and their music reflected the vibrant cultural landscape of the time. Their debut album, released in 1980, featured a blend of energetic rhythms and smooth vocals that captured listeners' attention, leading to several hits. The group's sound was characterized by catchy hooks and rhythmic grooves, making them a staple in the funk and disco scenes.
Over the years, The Reddings released six albums, showcasing their growth as artists and musicians. They toured extensively, gaining recognition not only for their musical talents but also for their engaging performances, which were infused with the spirit of their father's legacy.
While the group is often remembered for their contributions to funk and soul, they also faced the challenges of living in the shadow of their father's monumental career. Nevertheless, they were determined to carve out their own identity in the music industry and remain a notable part of the Redding family legacy in the world of music.
The Reddings
Producer – Billy Osborne, Zane Giles
Written-By – B. Osborne, A.Z. Giles
4:30
A2 So In Love With You
Producer – Robert Brookins
Written-By – R. Brookins, The Reddings
4:10
A3 Come Back To Me
Producer – The Reddings
Written-By – The Reddings
4:20
A4 Jealous Heart
Producer – The Reddings
Written-By – The Reddings
3:59
A5 R.O.C.C.
Producer – Robert Brookins
Written-By – R. Brookins, The Reddings
4:15
B1 Serious
Producer – B. Osborne, A.Z. Giles, Billy Osborne, Zane Giles
4:10
B2 Let's Stop Pretending
Producer – Billy Osborne, Zane Giles
Written-By – C. Mims, E. Booker
4:34
B3 Company
Producer – Robert Brookins
Written-By – R. Brookins, T. Haynes
4:30
B4 This Is My Life
Producer – The Reddings
Written-By – The Reddings
3:32
B5 Call The Law
Producer – The Reddings
Written-By – Autofrat, The Reddings
3:40
Label: Polydor – 422 835 292-1
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1988
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk
The Reddings' 1988 self-titled album is a solid, though lesser-known, entry in their discography that leans heavily into a sophisticated late 80s R&B, funk, and post-disco sound. General consensus from consumer ratings suggests positive reception, with an average rating around 4 out of 5 stars on platforms like Discogs and Amazon, often praised for its sound quality and nostalgic value.
Unlike the early 80s "naked funk" style found on some of their previous albums like Back to Basics (1983) or the Earth, Wind & Fire influence on Class (1981), the 1988 album is characterized by polished, well-produced tracks typical of the era. Listeners describe the music as having:
The album features clean, sweet grooves and strong vocal harmonies. The production aligns with late 80s R&B standards, potentially utilizing synthesizers and drum programming that were popular at the time.
It is considered an enjoyable, catchy R&B record from that period, with some consumers highlighting specific, albeit forgotten, "gems" among the love songs. For fans of The Reddings or 80s funk/soul, the album is a valued addition to their collection, sometimes being a sought-after record.
The album generally receives high marks from collectors and fans. Many positive reviews on sites like Amazon mention the album's ability to evoke the "best years" for the listener, suggesting a strong sentimental connection for those who listened to it at the time of its release.
In summary, while it may not have achieved the widespread critical acclaim of their father Otis Redding's work in the 60s, the 1988 self-titled album is a respected and enjoyable record for fans of the Reddings' specific 80s funk and R&B sound.