On Monday, March 3rd at 8PM, the life and music of renowned songwriter and producer Clyde Otis will be celebrated during “An Evening of Entertainment and Remembrance,” with performances, video and life tributes from some of his closest collaborators, friends, political and industry admirers.   The event, is FREE to the general public and will be held at the BERGEN Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey.

Clyde Otis was among the most prolific songwriters and producers of the post-war era, making music business history as the first African American A&R executive for a major label.  Best known for his long and enormously successful collaboration with singer Brook Benton, Mr. Otis is also credited as the writer or co-writer of almost 800 songs.  Among the countless artists who sang his praise and his songs are Dinah Washington, Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughn, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Bobby Darin, Johnny Mathis and Natalie Cole, whose recording of his “Take a Look” won a Grammy Award for best jazz vocal performance in 1994. 

Throughout his years, Otis continued to add “firsts” to his list of accomplishments including his successful music publishing company, The Clyde Otis Music Group, establishing himself as an independent producer.  

Otis, was born in Prentice, Mississippi and died on January 8, 2008 at age 83 in Englewood, New Jersey.   He is survived by his wife, Lourdes, three children; Clyde III, AnaIza and Isidro, five grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.  “An Evening of Entertainment and Remembrance” in honor of Clyde Otis is his family’s way of sharing his memory and legacy with the community where he lived and the community which he loved.  

This musical event is being produced by Ana Otis of First Impression Services, Inc. and Dedra N. Tate of Unlimited Contacts, Inc.

For more information, please contact Dedra N. Tate of Unlimited Contacts, Inc. 917-217-2222 or dedratate@aol.com.