Macon-Bibb to dedicate “Otis Redding Way” in honor of music legend

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Macon-Bibb County will celebrate the life, music, and legacy of Otis Redding with a special street dedication ceremony. The speaking portion of the ceremony will take place at 10:00 a.m. in the Zelma Redding Amphitheater at the Otis Redding Center for the Arts (436 Cotton Avenue).

The ceremony will officially dedicate portions of Cotton Avenue and Mulberry Street Lane as "Otis Redding Way," following approval of an ordinance by the Macon-Bibb County Commission. The dedication recognizes Redding's extraordinary musical achievements, his deep ties to Macon, and the impact he and his family continue to have on the community.

"Otis Redding holds a special place in Macon's story, and we are so proud to celebrate his life and legacy in a way that will last for generations," says Mayor Lester Miller. "His music brings people together, broke barriers, and continues to speak to generations of people. Otis Redding Way is more than a name on a street sign. It's a lasting reminder of an extraordinary man whose music, generosity, and spirit continue to inspire us, and it ensures his legacy will always have a visible place in our community."

"As we continue to cement my dad's musical and philanthropic legacy, this street dedication only a few feet from where his office was is very symbolic of his impact," says Redding's daughter and Otis Redding Foundation Vice-President and Executive Director, Karla Redding-Andrews. "With much appreciation for our supporters in the city of Macon and Bibb County, we're humbled and excited to celebrate this recognition for the man, the artist and the philanthropist that dad was."

The ceremony will take place on what would have been Redding's 85th birthday.

Redding was born September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia, and moved with his family to Macon when he was two years old. His musical journey began here, singing in the choir at Vineville Baptist Church, participating in the band at Ballard Hudson High School, and competing in talent shows at the historic Douglass Theatre. As a teenager, he famously won the theatre's five-dollar talent show prize 15 times in a row before he was no longer allowed to compete.

Redding went on to become one of the most influential soul singers and songwriters of all time, recording hits including "These Arms of Mine," "I've Been Loving You Too Long," "Respect," "Try a Little Tenderness," and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay."

His influence in Macon extended beyond the stage and recording studio. Redding helped establish Redwal Music Company with Phil and Alan Walden and later formed his own record label, Jotis Records. Education and supporting young people were also important to him. During his lifetime, he provided scholarships, supported local educational initiatives, and hosted a summer camp for underserved youth.

Redding was posthumously inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 1981 and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, and he received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.

His commitment to music, education, and bringing people together continues today through his family, the Otis Redding Foundation, and the Otis Redding Center for the Arts.

The newly designated Otis Redding Way will serve as a permanent recognition of Redding's indelible mark on Macon-Bibb County and his influence on music and culture around the world.