The world of R&B and soul is mourning the loss of veteran hitmaker Clarence Carter, who passed away at the age of 90 on Wednesday, May 14. His death follows a courageous battle with Stage 4 prostate cancer, complicated by recent struggles with pneumonia and sepsis. The news was confirmed by Rodney Hall, president of FAME Studios, and Carter’s former wife, the celebrated singer Candi Staton.
Born blind in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1936, Carter’s journey was defined by an extraordinary musical resilience. After teaching himself guitar as a child and graduating with a music degree from Alabama State College, he emerged as a powerhouse in the Muscle Shoals music scene. While early tracks like “Step By Step” earned him chart recognition, it was the 1968 classic “Slip Away” that solidified his status as a crossover star, captivating audiences with his distinct, rich baritone.
Read more ; Kylie Jenner Reflects on the ‘Diabolical’ Reality of Growing Up Famous
Carter’s career reached its zenith in 1970 with the release of “Patches.” The Grammy-winning single, renowned for its poignant storytelling and soul-stirring spoken-word intro, peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a definitive anthem of the era. Beyond his soulful ballads, Carter maintained a lasting impact on pop culture through cult favorites like “Back Door Santa” and the suggestive “Strokin’,” both of which have been immortalized through cinema and extensive sampling in hip-hop. His legacy stands as a testament to the raw, narrative power of American soul music.