On Second Thought For Tuesday, September 13, 2016

If Aretha Franklin is the “Queen of Soul,” Otis Redding was the king. He died in 1967 at the young age of 26, but not before recording some of the most powerful soul records that still resonate with contemporary listeners. Last weekend, Macon hosted a festival in honor of the fallen soul-singer, including musical performances from his two sons. Author Mark Ribowsky examines Redding’s legacy from his upbringing in Georgia to his untimely death. He talks about his book, “Dreams to Remember: Otis Redding, Stax Records, and the Transformation of Southern Soul.”

On Second Thought for Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Then, we hear from Georgia Music Hall of Famer Gregg Allman about how he got his start singing with The Allman Brothers Band and what Macon means to him today. He also reveals the origins of the song “Melissa” and stands up for artists who struggle to make a living in the modern-day music industry.

Plus, Otis Redding, the Allman Brothers and Little Richard are just a few of the top-notch musicians to get their professional start in Macon, Georgia. There are many other talented Macon artists who haven't gotten the same recognition. We speak with Jamie Weatherford and Jessica Walden of Rock Candy Tours in Macon, which takes guests to visit some of the historical music sites in that city. Then, we talk to Robert McDuffie, who has opened a music conservatory at Mercer University which focuses not only on musical talent, but also teaches students how to survive financially as working musicians.