Otis Redding

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
You left me for another
You told me he was your lover
So I'm begging and I'm pleading
And I'm down on bended knee, oh baby
That's what my heart needs

[Verse 2]
Baby, oh baby
I'm calling you out loud and clear, baby
Oh baby
I love you, yes I do
And I want to be with you, oh baby
That's what my heart needs

[Verse 3]
Darling, my my darling
I need you here right by my side, baby, darling
If you hadn't left that day
Then my love wouldn't be this way, oh baby
That's what my heart needs

[Outro]
Come on, baby
I said I need you right here by my side
I said I need you, baby
I need you here to protect me and be my guide
And oh, baby, yeah, yeah, baby
I know you don't know what I mean, baby
Oh, baby, yeah, hey baby
Hey, hey baby
Come on, come on and love me, baby, Lord
Come on, come on and be right by my side
Hey, come on, yeah, yeah, baby...You might also likeEmbed

When it comes to the soulful sound of the 60s, Otis Redding is a name that always seems to make the list. With a unique voice and a deep passion for music, he created songs that still resonate with listeners today. That's What My Heart Needs is one such track that showcases Redding's talents and serves as a reminder of his incredible contributions to the music industry.

About That’s What My Heart Needs

That's What My Heart Needs is a soulful track that was recorded by Otis Redding in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1962. The song was written by Walden and Robey, and produced by Jim Stewart. The track opens with a classic blues riff and features Redding's signature vocals. The song was released as a single on Volt Records in 1963, and it quickly became a hit among soul music fans.

The song's lyrics address the topic of love and the emotional turmoil that can come with it. In the song, Redding sings about how he needs his lover by his side in order to be happy. He tells her that she is the one who can make him feel complete and that without her, his heart is empty.

What makes this song stand out is the passion and sincerity in Redding's vocals. His voice has a raw quality to it that perfectly captures the pain and longing expressed in the lyrics. As he sings, you can feel the intensity of his emotions, which is part of what makes the song so compelling.

The instrumentation in That's What My Heart Needs is also noteworthy. The song features a horn section, which adds to the overall soulful sound and gives the track a sense of energy and excitement. The use of the horns in the song is particularly effective during the chorus, where they come in and add a sense of urgency to Redding's vocals.

Another interesting aspect of That's What My Heart Needs is the way it combines elements of different genres. The song has a blues rock feel to it, with a heavy focus on the guitar and drums, but it also has elements of gospel and R&B. This combination of genres creates a unique sound that is unmistakably Otis Redding.

The song was well-received by both fans and critics and helped cement Redding's status as an emerging star in the world of soul music. It also paved the way for his future successes, which would include hits like Pain in My Heart and Respect.

Why This Song Matters

That's What My Heart Needs is more than just a typical love song. It's a reflection of the emotions and struggles that come with being in a relationship. The song's lyrics and instrumentation work together to create a powerful and emotional experience for the listener.

As an early example of Redding's work, That's What My Heart Needs holds an important place in the history of soul music. It showcased Redding's unique talents and set the stage for the many great songs that would come later in his career.

For fans of soul music, That's What My Heart Needs is a must-listen. It's a powerful reminder of the incredible talent of Otis Redding and the lasting impact he has had on the music industry.

In short, That's What My Heart Needs is a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners today. With its soulful sound and powerful lyrics, it is a testament to the incredible talent of Otis Redding and his lasting impact on the world of music.

• Release Date: 1964
• Artist: Otis Redding