Carl Carlton, Soul And Funk Icon Behind “Bad Mama Jama,” Dies
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