Otis left school at 15 to help support his family after his father was hospitalized with tuberculosis.  He was a well digger, a gas station attendant and worked as a guest musician on his way to becoming the King of Soul.  He died in a plane crash at the peak of his career.  He was 26 years old.  Life changes quick.  Live with soul.  Personally, I think his version was better, but St. Paul & The Broken Bones execute this rendition of “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” beautifully.

And..in the mood for more soul?  Check out this soul-inspired mix “Mad Man From Macon”