Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul (1965)

Otis Redding turns desperate pleading into high art. Backed by Booker T. & the M.G.'s and the Stax horn section, he uses rhythmic grunts, sudden drops in volume and cracked high cries to convey a sincerity that feels completely unvarnished. I've Been Loving You Too Long is the slow-burning proof; Respect shows the same voice at full drive.