R&B Legend Clarence Carter Passes Away at 90

Clarence Carter, the renowned blues and soul singer-songwriter known for his distinctive raspy voice, has died at the age of 90. Born blind in Montgomery, Alabama, Carter taught himself guitar and pursued music studies at Alabama State College. He achieved his biggest commercial success in 1970 with ‘Patches,’ a poignant story about a young man taking responsibility for his family’s farm after his father’s death. While Carter is celebrated for such sentimental hits, he was equally famous for his more risqué songs, including ‘Strokin’,’ ‘Slip Away,’ ‘Back Door Santa,’ and ‘Making Love on the Dark End of the Street,’ which became club favorites despite being too explicit for mainstream radio. Carter’s work included collaborations with notable musicians like Duane Allman and recordings at Muscle Shoals’ Fame Studios, a legendary hub for soul music. His influence extended to other artists; for example, his song ‘Tell Daddy’ inspired Etta James’ hit ‘Tell Mama.’ Carter was briefly married to fellow singer Candi Staton, with whom he had a son, Clarence Carter Jr. His death was confirmed by Bill Carpenter, a spokesman for Staton, and was attributed to natural causes. Over his career, Carter recorded for Ichiban Records and his own Cee Gee Entertainment label, leaving behind a lasting legacy in R&B and soul music.