American singer and soul icon Carl Carlton has passed away at the age of 72, leaving behind a musical legacy that spanned decades and crossed genres. Known for his upbeat, expressive style during the disco and R&B era, Carlton brought energy and warmth to his recordings and live performances. His work became part of the cultural soundtrack for many listeners, and his influence continues through songs that remain popular across generations.
Carlton gained widespread recognition in 1974 with his well-known cover of Everlasting Love, which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Born Carlton Hudgens in Detroit, he began performing at a young age under the name Little Carl Carlton and signed with a Texas-based label early in his career. While his first releases saw limited success in the United States, they were embraced by the Northern Soul movement in the United Kingdom, helping him build an international audience. His vocal style was often compared to that of Stevie Wonder for its range, emotion, and clarity.
In the late 1970s, Carlton worked to regain creative control and later found renewed success after signing with a new label. This period led to the release of She’s a Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked), which reached No. 2 on Billboard’s soul chart and became one of the era’s most recognizable funk tracks. He also recorded a reggae-influenced version of Baby I Need Your Loving, adding his own style to the classic. Over the years, he worked alongside respected artists such as Smokey Robinson, Rick James, Teena Marie, The Commodores, and Chaka Khan.
In later years, Carlton recorded less often but remained active as a live performer, particularly in the Detroit area, where he appeared at festivals and community events. After experiencing health challenges following a stroke in 2019, he passed away on December 14, 2025, according to Rolling Stone. His family confirmed the news in a public message honoring his perseverance and impact. Though Carl Carlton’s life has come to a close, his music continues to reflect joy, rhythm, and resilience, ensuring his place in the history of American soul music.