R&B Legend Johnny Otis, Dies at Age 90

Johnny Otis, a legendary bandleader, composer, A&R man, DJ, everyman, passed away on January 17th. To say Johnny Otis was a recording industry giant would be a massive understatement.

As a bandleader, Otis laid the groundwork to what would be dubbed rhythm & blues, the cornerstone of what became rock n roll. As an A&R man, he discovered a couple of people you may have heard of: Etta James, Jackie Wilson, Hank Ballard and Little Willie John. He later became a highly influential DJ in Los Angeles. Johnny Otis produced the original version of ‘Hound Dog’ for Big Mama Thornton, which caught the ears of Elvis Presley and well, you know the rest.

As a songwriter, he wrote ‘Every Beat Of My Heart’, which became a hit for Gladys Knight & The Pips. Otis also wrote and performed his signature hit, ‘Willie & The Hand Jive’, which was later covered by Eric Clapton on his hit album 461 Ocean Blvd.

He is the father of guitarist John, Jr., better known as Shuggie Otis, author of the funk standard ‘Strawberry Letter #23’. A true innovator and pioneer, Johnny Otis was 90 years old.

Rest in peace Johnny.