Carl Carlton, the Detroit-born singer whose voice helped shape generations of soul, funk, and R&B, has died at the age of 72. His death was confirmed by family members on December 14, 2025. Carlton had experienced ongoing health issues in recent years following a stroke in 2019.
Carlton, born Carlton Hudgens on May 21, 1953, showed musical talent early. Raised in Detroit, he began singing as a child and entered the recording industry in the 1960s under the name “Little Carl Carlton,” a nod to his youth and vocal ability. He later relocated to Houston, where his early recordings gained regional attention and helped establish him as a rising R&B artist.
His first major breakthrough came in 1974 with a remake of “Everlasting Love,” which became a national hit and introduced his voice to a broader audience. The song climbed into the Top 10 on the Billboard charts and remains one of the most recognizable soul records of the era.
Carlton’s most enduring success arrived in 1981 with “She’s a Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked),” a funk-driven anthem that became an instant classic. The song earned him a Grammy nomination and helped his self-titled album reach gold status. Decades later, it remains a staple of R&B radio, film soundtracks, and pop culture, frequently sampled and referenced by younger artists.
Though he never chased celebrity, Carlton continued recording and performing throughout his career. His work spanned traditional R&B, funk, and later gospel music, reflecting both his musical roots and personal faith. Even as mainstream attention shifted, his influence endured, particularly among fans of classic soul.
Carlton’s music captured confidence, joy, and groove at a time when funk and R&B were defining American culture. For many listeners, his songs are tied to memories of dance floors, house parties, and summer soundtracks.
Carl Carlton is remembered not only for his chart-topping hits, but for a voice that helped define an era. His music continues to play on, long after his final note.
