Carl Carton, Funk and R&B artist, passed away. Carlton was a Detroit icon whose music embodied the joyfulness of funk music. He was among artists who adopted the Motown approach, blending soul, pop, and R&B, without actually being part of the Motown corporation.
His death was confirmed by his son, Carlton Hudgens II, through a Facebook announcment.
“RIP Dad, Legend Carl Carlton, singer of She’s a Bad Mama Jama. Long hard fight in life and you will be missed.”
Following the news of his passing, Con Funk Shun, the R&B and Funk band, released a statement of his passing:
“With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of the legendary Carl Carlton. His voice, talent, and contributions to soul and R&B music will forever be a part of our lives and the soundtrack of so many memories. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fans around the world.”
Carlton’s Start in Music
The Detroit native began making music in the early 60s as a teenager under the name “Little Carl” Carlton. He first gained traction in 1971 with the release of his single, “I Can Feel It.” Carlton’s first big hit came after his 1974 cover of Robert Knight’s single “Everlasting Love.” The song peaked at number six on Billboard’s Hot 100. That same year, he released his debut album of the same title embarking the start of his mainstream career.
Though his career was built decades earlier, Carlton is most known for his 1983 record, “She’s a Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked).” The song is a staple in all that is considered funk music. It is recognized for its rhythmic instruments that supports the uplifting message. The single has been featured onto soundtracks of many cult classics, including Two Can Play That Game and Miss Congeniality 2. According to whosampled, it has also been sampled by many different artists, including rappers like Foxy Brown and Flo Milli.
As we mourn the loss of another iconic soul artist, we keep his loved ones in mind. Carlton’s music will forever live on in the hearts of those who appreciate his contribution to Black music, and his presence will be sorely missed.
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