Try a Little Tenderness (2:35)

“Try a Little Tenderness”   is a song written in 1932 by Harry M. Woods (music), Jimmy Campbell and Reg Connelly (lyrics).

This version is in the style of George Shearing. His harmonies are so rich, and chordal reharmonizations so unique and full, that it makes you want to linger on every note and chord. His chord voicings and the way he moves between them are unmistakably distinctive. It’s worth a close listen.

I didn’t realize it was such a popular standard when I first learned it from a transcription of George Shearing as a teen.  After all these years, it blew me away when I just recently listened to Otis Redding’s classic R&B version!  Bing Crosby recorded it in 1933, and the song appeared on Frank Sinatra’s debut album in 1946!  Other covers: Michael Bublé, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Percy Sledge, Frankie Valli, Al Jarreau, Jimmy Durante, Rod Stewart, Michael Bolton, Peggy Lee, Nancy Wilson, and the Glee Cast, among others.

Back to Otis Redding. A popular version in an entirely new form was recorded by soul artist Otis Redding in 1966. Redding was backed on his version by Booker T and the MGs.  This version has probably eclipsed many other interpretations. More about that version coming up on another blog!

Enjoy,

Dr. Weiss

Some info from Wikipedia