Clyde Otis

Clyde Lovern Otis (September 11, 1924 – January 8, 2008) was an American songwriter and record producer, best known for his collaboration with singer Brook Benton, and for being one of the first African-American A&R executives at a major label.

Clyde Otis Music Group Upon leaving the label, he briefly worked at Liberty Records before founding his own publishing firm, the Clyde Otis Music Group, and moving into independent production. Relocating to Nashville, Tennessee, Otis produced sessions for country singers Charlie Rich and Sonny James. His songs have also been recorded by Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Johnny Mathis, and Patti Page. In the late 1970s, he collaborated again with Brook Benton on several albums for various labels.

Awards Winner of a Grammy Award in 1994 for producing Natalie Cole's "Take a Look", Otis was given a Pioneer Award by the Rhythm and Blues Foundation in 2000.

Personal life He lived in Englewood, New Jersey, for over 40 years, and died there on January 8, 2008. He was survived by his wife, Lourdes; two sons, Isidro and Clyde III; two daughters, AnaIza and Sharon M. Brodus; and five grandchildren.

Notable songs "Ain't That Lovin' You, Baby" "Any Way You Want Me" "Baby (You've Got What It Takes)" "Doncha' Think It's Time" "Endlessly" "I'm Too Far Gone (To Turn Around)" "It's Just a Matter of Time" "Kiddio" "Looking Back" "A Rockin' Good Way (to Mess Around and Fall in Love)" "The Stroll" "Thank You Pretty Baby" "That's All There Is to That" "Think Twice" "This Bitter Earth" "The Ties That Bind" "Till I Can't Take It Anymore" "The Wall" "Wishing It Was You"