He was a voice that could move mountains — raw, sacred, and unstoppable.
A preacher’s son with a sound that carried the weight of every hymn and heartbreak in America.
Just as the world began to listen, fate silenced him in a storm over the Midwest.
But one unfinished song would rise from the wreckage to define him forever.

This is the story of a man who gave everything to his music…and left behind a melody the world still hums without knowing why. Jonny’s Dead Air Podcast presents: The King of Soul.

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“Jonny’s Dead Air Podcast — The King of Soul — was written and narrated by Jonny Hartwell.
While inspired by real events, certain dialogue and scenes have been dramatized for storytelling purposes.

Special thanks to Stax Records, Concord Music Group, and the Otis Redding Foundation for preserving the legacy of one of music’s greatest voices. Historical sources include interviews with Steve Cropper, Ben Cauley, and archival reporting from Billboard, Rolling Stone, and local Macon newspapers. This episode is dedicated to the fans who keep the whistle alive — every time they sing along.”

Written by Jonny Hartwell
Voiced by Jonny Hartwell
Music Credit: Reel World Audio.
A iHeart Radio Production

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains discussions of sensitive topics...Listener discretion is strongly advised. While the stories you’ll hear are rooted in real events, not every detail is strictly historical—some moments are dramatized with creative license to bring the narrative to life. Please keep this in mind as you listen.

Jonny’s Dead Air Podcast
Written, hosted, and produced by Jonny Hartwell.
A production of iHeartRadio Pittsburgh.

Thanks for listening—and for keeping the light on.