Otis Redding 1967 Vanderbilt University Second-to-Last Concert Poster
Description
This is a rare, original window card advertising Otis Redding’s penultimate live performance at Vanderbilt University’s Memorial Gym in Nashville, Tennessee, on December 8, 1967. Rendered in bold red and yellow, the poster features classic boxing-style graphics and highlights Redding’s star power as he prepared to thrill a campus crowd just two days before his tragic death. With featured hits like “Satisfaction” and “Knock on Wood” boldly listed, this card announces a landmark moment in soul music history, capturing the very end of an unforgettable era. Admission was free to students, while guests could attend for just $2, underscoring the show’s accessibility and the deep impact Redding made on live audiences. This specimen is the only known survivor discovered by collectors, measures a tad under 14" x 22", and was first offered at Heritage Auctions.
Significance
This concert poster is coveted not only for its extreme rarity but also for its deep connection to music history. As the last Nashville performance Redding ever gave—followed by a single more show before his untimely plane crash—it stands as both a celebration and a memorial. Its simple, direct design and inclusion of iconic songs make it a quintessential piece of 1960s R&B history. The poster serves as a powerful reminder of Redding’s influence, capturing the gravity of his loss and the vitality of his music at its peak.
Key Notes
• Documents Otis Redding’s second-to-last concert, just two days before his passing in 1967.
• Features a vibrant red and yellow boxing-style design, with hits “Satisfaction” and “Knock on Wood.”
• The only known surviving copy of the poster, making it a centerpiece for soul and collectible music memorabilia.
• Originated from a campus performance with free student admission—a reflection of Redding’s wide-reaching appeal.
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