Carl Carlton, funk and r&b singer, dies at 72

Funk and R&B singer Carl Carlton, best known for “She’s a Bad Mamma Jama” and “Everlasting Love,” has died at 72.

Carl Carlton’s son announced his father’s passing

His son, Carlton Hudgens II, confirmed the news Sunday, Dec. 14, in a Facebook post.

“​​RIP Dad, Legend Carl Carlton, singer of ‘She’s a Bad Mama Jama,” he wrote alongside a photo of the late musician. “Long hard fight in life and you will be missed.”

The music legend’s passing comes after he suffered from a stroke six years ago, according to Soultracks.com.

Career Beginnings

Born Carlton Hudgens in Detroit in 1953, Carlton started his career in the 1960s as “Little Carl Carlton.” He gained recognition in 1971 when “I Can Feel It” reached the Billboard Soul Singles chart, syracuse.com reported.

He later broke into the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 with his 1974 cover of “Everlasting Love.”

Carl Carlton’s Enduring Hits

The track remains popular, with more than 25 million streams on Spotify. His 1981 anthem “She’s a Bad Mamma Jama” became his signature song.

It earned a Grammy nomination and has surpassed 100 million streams.

Cultural Impact

Moreover, the hit has been sampled by numerous artists and featured in films like Miss Congeniality 2 and Fat Albert.

It also appeared in television shows such as Friends, cementing Carlton’s influence across generations.

Legacy

Carlton’s music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. His blend of funk and R&B left a lasting mark on popular culture.

He is remembered as an icon whose songs defined an era and inspired countless musicians.