Otis Redding Statue

Unveiled in September 2002, this life-size bronze statue of Otis Redding was created by father-and-son sculptors Bradley Cooley and Bradley Cooley Jr. To capture an authentic likeness, the artists made facial moulds from Redding's brother Luther Rodgers Redding and his two sons, Lester and Otis Jr. The result is a striking portrait of the King of Soul, depicted as if performing for passers-by.

What makes this statue truly special is that it plays music. The sculpture continuously plays 15 to 20 of Otis Redding's greatest hits, with the playlist changing with the seasons. It is not just a memorial — it is an experience. Stand next to it and you are listening to Otis in the city where he made his name.

The statue sits under the Otis Redding Bridge in Gateway Park on Cherry Street in Macon. It was sponsored by NewTown Macon and the Redding Estate. The park is freely accessible and the statue makes for an unmissable photo stop — bring a moment to just stand and listen. It sits near the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, making it easy to combine with a wider Macon music tour.