The Reddings: Funk, Soul, and the Family Legacy

The Reddings are an American funk and soul band formed by brothers Otis Redding III and Dexter Redding, sons of the legendary soul singer Otis Redding. Hailing from Macon, Georgia, the group carved their own path in the early 1980s, achieving notable chart success with their dance-floor ready single Remote Control and releasing several albums that blended contemporary funk with their deep soul roots.

Early career

The band was officially formed in 1978, with the brothers joined by cousin Mark Locket. They were signed to Believe in a Day Music, a label founded by their mother Zelma Redding, ensuring artistic control from the outset. Their self-titled debut album, The Reddings, was released in 1980, introducing a polished, synth-driven funk sound that respectfully updated their father's musical heritage for a new decade.

Breakthrough

The group's commercial breakthrough arrived with their second album, 1982's Steamin' Hot. The album's lead single, Remote Control, became a smash on the R&B and dance charts, peaking at No. 6 on Billboard's Hot Black Singles chart and crossing over to the pop Hot 100. This success established The Reddings as hitmakers in their own right, distinct from the shadow of their father's monumental legacy.

Key tracks

Remote Control — This synth-funk anthem was the band's biggest hit, defining their early-80s sound and earning heavy rotation on urban contemporary radio.

Cool Aid — A funky, upbeat track from their debut that showcased their tight musicianship and vocal harmonies, becoming a fan favorite.

Call the Law — A later single that demonstrated the group's continued ability to craft catchy, dance-oriented funk with sharp social commentary.

Following Steamin' Hot, The Reddings released Class in 1985, which included the single You're My Treat. They continued to tour and record into the 1990s, later collaborating with artists like Chuckii Booker. Their work has been sampled by hip-hop artists, cementing their influence in the funk genre. The band's story is a unique chapter in soul music, bridging the classic Stax era with the electro-funk of the 1980s.

Fans of The Reddings' blend of melodic soul and crisp funk often appreciate the work of The Time for their similar mastery of 80s funk rhythms. The groove-oriented approach of Midnight Star shares a common ground with The Reddings' dance-floor focus. Listeners drawn to their soulful vocals might explore Ready For The World for their contemporary R&B style. The legacy of their father's music connects them to southern soul pioneers like Sam and Dave.

The Reddings' catalog, particularly their early 80s hits, maintains a steady presence on the playlists of classic R&B and funk radio stations. Their songs are staples on channels dedicated to 1980s dance music and soul revivals, often featured in special programming blocks highlighting family musical dynasties or the evolution of funk.

You can hear the timeless funk and soul of The Reddings on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Explore our curated selection of stations to discover their music and other artists from the golden era of R&B.