Carl Carlton, Legendary Funk Artist Known for “She’s a Bad Mama Jama,” Dies at 73
Soul, R&B, pop, funk and gospel singer Carl Carlton passed away on Sunday at the age of 73. Carlton Hudgens II, Carlton’s son, broke the news of his father’s death in a social media post later that day. No cause of death has been released, but Carlton had struggled with health issues ever since suffering a stroke in 2019. Here is a look back at the singer’s life and career.
The Early Years
Carlton grew up in Detroit and began his music career in the mid-sixties. He had a few minor local hits before signing with Back Beat Records and moving to Texas. His career would soon take off. He charted several songs over the next few years before getting his first big hit in 1974 with the title track of his second major-label studio album, Everlasting Love. The single reached Number Six on the Billboard Hot 100 and Number 11 on the Soul chart, while also reaching the Top 20 in Canada.
Royalties Dispute Slows Career
In 1976, Carlton became engaged in a dispute with ABC Records, which had bought out Back Beat, over royalties. He didn’t make much music again until 1980, when he signed with 20th Century Records. In 1981, Carlton would release his biggest hit, “She’s a Bad Mama Jama.” The song reached Number Two on the Soul chart and Number 22 on the Hot 100 and earned Carlton his first gold record. “Mama Jama” would also earn Carlton a Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
Carlton would have a couple more minor hits with his cover of the Four Tops’ “Baby I Need Your Loving” in 1982 and the title track of his sixth studio album, Private Property, in 1985. He would only record two albums after that, 1994’s Main Event, and his lone gospel album, God Is Good, in 2010. The latter was nominated for a Detroit Music Award.
The Artist Remembered
Carlton was a funk, soul, and R&B pioneer whose music is still sampled in hip-hop and rap songs today. His music has been featured in movie and television soundtracks, like “Fat Albert,” “Friends,” “Miss Congeniality 2,” and “Supergirl.” The icon has influenced many of today’s musicians. Here are just a couple of the many tributes on social media.
With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of the legendary Carl Carlton. His voice, talent, and contributions to soul and R&B music will forever be a part of our lives and the soundtrack of so many memories. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fans around the world. Rest in power, Carl. Your legacy lives on. 🙏🏾🎶 #Confunkshun4real#thekamdigroup#ConFunkShun#carlcarlton
— Con Funk Shun on Facebook.
Carl Carlton, the acclaimed soul and funk singer and songwriter whose music helped shape generations of rhythm-driven sound, has died. His son announced that Carlton passed away after suffering health complications
Known for his powerful voice, heartfelt songwriting, and deep connection to groove-based music, Carlton built a career rooted in authenticity and emotional expression. His music spoke to love, resilience, and the human experience, leaving a lasting imprint on soul and funk.
Carl’s voice, songs, and legacy will continue to resonate through the artists he inspired and the listeners who found meaning in his work.
— Okayplayer (a music collective founded by Questlove) on Facebook
Carlton’s legacy will live on through his music, and his contributions to the industry will reverberate for decades to come. He will truly be missed.
