About the song
Prepare to be transported to the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant music scene in the mid-1960s with Otis Redding’s immortal masterpiece, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” This soulful ballad, co-written by Redding and guitarist Steve Cropper, captures the essence of a city and a moment in time, leaving a lasting impact on music history.
A Song Born from a Bayside Retreat
In the summer of 1967, Redding found himself in Sausalito, California, taking a break from touring. Staying at a houseboat on the bay, he was inspired by the tranquil surroundings and the rhythmic ebb and flow of the water. It was here that he began crafting the lyrics that would later become “Dock of the Bay.”
A Labor of Love and a Final Farewell
Redding and Cropper collaborated on the song over several months, refining the lyrics and perfecting the melody. They recorded the final version just days before Redding’s tragic death in a plane crash on December 10, 1967. “Dock of the Bay” would become his posthumous masterpiece, reaching number one on the US charts and cementing his legacy as one of soul music’s most influential figures.
A Musical Tapestry of Nostalgia and Hope
The song’s poignant lyrics evoke a sense of longing and reflection, painting a vivid picture of a life in transition. Redding’s soulful vocals, combined with Cropper’s evocative guitar riffs and the subtle sounds of waves and seagulls, create a timeless melody that resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
A Legacy That Lives On
In the decades since its release, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” has become a beloved classic, its enduring popularity a testament to its timeless appeal. It remains a staple of radio stations and concert halls worldwide, reminding us of the power of music to transcend time and connect us to the human experience.
Rediscover the Magic of “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay”
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Otis Redding’s music, take a moment to immerse yourself in the beauty and depth of “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” Let its haunting melody and poignant lyrics transport you to another time and place, where the sounds of the bay and the spirit of a soul legend converge in a symphony of timeless beauty.
Video
Lyrics
Sittin’ in the mornin’ sun
I’ll be sittin’ when the evenin’ come
Watching the ships roll in
And I watch ’em roll away again, yeahI’m sittin’ on the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Ooh, I’m just sittin’ on the dock of the bay
Wastin’ timeI left my home in Georgia
Headed for the ‘Frisco bay
‘Cause I’ve had nothing to live for
And look like nothing’s gonna come my waySo I’m just gonna sit on the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Ooh, I’m sittin’ on the dock of the bay
Wastin’ timeLook like nothing’s gonna change
Everything still remains the same
I can’t do what ten people tell me to do
So I guess I’ll remain the same, yesSittin’ here resting my bones
And this loneliness won’t leave me alone
It’s two thousand miles I roamed
Just to make this dock my homeNow, I’m just gonna sit at the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Ooh-wee, sittin’ on the dock of the bay
Wastin’ time