The song “Try a Little Tenderness,” a soul anthem of pleading and devotion, is most famously associated with Otis Redding, yet its cinematic journey is surprisingly nuanced. While Redding’s version has frequently been licensed for use in movies and television, the definitive answer to which film originally featured “Try a Little Tenderness” is the 1933 film College Coach, starring Dick Powell and Ann Dvorak.
The Unexpected Origin: 1933’s College Coach
Contrary to popular belief that associates the song solely with soul music, “Try a Little Tenderness” has roots stretching back to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Composed by Harry Woods, Jimmy Campbell, and Reg Connelly, it was initially a peppy, albeit melancholic, jazz standard. Dick Powell, portraying the college quarterback, sings a snippet of the song in College Coach, albeit in a significantly different arrangement than the renditions that would follow. This early version lacks the raw emotional intensity of later interpretations but established the song’s potential for dramatic and heartfelt expression.
The fact that this film doesn’t heavily feature the song is crucial. It’s not a central musical number; it’s a brief moment, a suggestion of the tune’s capabilities. This allowed subsequent artists to completely reimagine and own the song in their own way.
From Big Bands to Soulful Laments: The Evolution of a Classic
The song’s journey from its initial upbeat jazz arrangement to the deeply soulful interpretations we know today is fascinating. Following College Coach, various artists, including Bing Crosby, recorded their own versions. These renditions maintained the song’s original jazzy character, focusing on its melodic qualities and sentimental lyrics.
The Otis Redding Revolution
Everything changed with Otis Redding’s monumental 1966 rendition. Redding transformed “Try a Little Tenderness” into a powerful soul ballad. His impassioned vocals, the driving rhythm section, and the building crescendo created an unparalleled emotional impact. This is the version that cemented the song’s place in music history and solidified its association with pleading for understanding and compassion in a relationship.
Redding’s version is arguably the most iconic. It wasn’t just a cover; it was a complete reinvention, imbued with the rawness and vulnerability that defined soul music. This is why even now, decades later, it remains the standard against which all other versions are measured.
Beyond Redding: A Legacy of Covers
Numerous artists have covered “Try a Little Tenderness” since Redding’s definitive recording. From Aretha Franklin to Michael Bublé, each artist brought their unique style and perspective to the song, further cementing its status as a timeless classic. These covers serve as a testament to the song’s enduring power and its ability to resonate with different generations and musical sensibilities.
“Try a Little Tenderness” in Cinema: Beyond College Coach
While College Coach introduced the song to the world, Otis Redding’s version has been extensively used in film and television. It’s frequently employed to underscore scenes of emotional vulnerability, relationship struggles, or moments of profound reflection.
Examples of Notable Film Appearances (Post-Redding)
- Although difficult to definitively document every use of the song, numerous films have utilized Otis Redding’s version to great effect. These often involve scenes portraying either romantic tension, pleas for forgiveness, or emotional resolution. Specific titles are too numerous to list exhaustively without potentially being incomplete, and music licensing details aren’t always publicly available. However, its common use in dramatic scenes is well-documented.
The Power of Association
The association with Redding’s version is so strong that even snippets of the song can instantly evoke feelings of longing, heartbreak, and the yearning for connection. This makes it a particularly effective tool for filmmakers seeking to quickly establish a specific emotional atmosphere.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into “Try a Little Tenderness”
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the song’s fascinating history and enduring appeal:
What is the song “Try a Little Tenderness” actually about?
The song essentially pleads for understanding and compassion in a romantic relationship. It suggests that even when things are difficult, a little kindness and tenderness can go a long way in repairing the bond between two people. The lyrics focus on recognizing the other person’s emotional state and responding with empathy.
Who originally wrote “Try a Little Tenderness”?
The song was written by Harry Woods, Jimmy Campbell, and Reg Connelly. It’s a collaborative effort that showcases a blend of songwriting talents from the early 20th century.
Why is Otis Redding’s version so much more famous than the original?
Otis Redding’s version injected the song with a raw emotional intensity that the original lacked. His powerful vocals, combined with the gospel-infused arrangement, transformed it into a soulful anthem. The raw vulnerability in his voice resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying it as the definitive version.
Besides Otis Redding, which other famous artists have covered “Try a Little Tenderness”?
Numerous artists have covered the song, including but not limited to: Aretha Franklin, Bing Crosby, Michael Bublé, Percy Sledge, and The Commitments. This diverse list highlights the song’s broad appeal across different genres and generations.
What key musical elements make Otis Redding’s version so impactful?
Several elements contribute to Redding’s version’s impact: his passionate vocals, the dynamic arrangement that builds to a powerful crescendo, the prominent use of horns, and the gospel-influenced backing vocals. These elements combine to create a deeply emotional and unforgettable listening experience.
In what other contexts, besides film, is “Try a Little Tenderness” frequently used?
Beyond film, the song is commonly used in television shows, commercials, and even political campaigns. Its universal message of empathy and understanding makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. Its also popular at weddings and other romantic celebrations.
How has the meaning of “Try a Little Tenderness” evolved over time?
Initially, the song conveyed a somewhat more lighthearted sentiment of romantic devotion. However, Otis Redding’s version infused it with a deeper sense of pleading and vulnerability, transforming it into a powerful statement about the importance of empathy and compassion in relationships. The song’s meaning has broadened to encompass themes of understanding and forgiveness in various contexts.
What is the significance of the phrase “try a little tenderness” in the song?
The phrase encapsulates the song’s core message. It emphasizes the transformative power of small acts of kindness and consideration in resolving conflict and strengthening relationships. It suggests that even in the face of difficulty, a little tenderness can make a significant difference.
Is “Try a Little Tenderness” considered a standard in any particular genre?
While originally a jazz standard, it’s now considered a soul standard, largely due to Otis Redding’s influence. The song’s evolution highlights how a song can transcend its original genre and find new life in different musical contexts.
What is the lasting legacy of “Try a Little Tenderness”?
The song’s lasting legacy lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. It’s a timeless reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in human relationships. It remains a popular choice for artists seeking to express profound emotions through music.
Does the song have any specific cultural or social significance beyond its musical value?
Beyond its musical value, “Try a Little Tenderness” has become associated with themes of reconciliation, forgiveness, and the need for greater empathy in society. It serves as a reminder of the power of human connection and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. In some contexts, it has even been interpreted as a call for social justice and understanding.
Where can I listen to the original version from College Coach and Otis Redding’s version?
Both versions are widely available on various music streaming platforms, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Searching for “Try a Little Tenderness Dick Powell” will lead you to the College Coach version, while “Try a Little Tenderness Otis Redding” will provide access to his iconic rendition.