Clarence Carter, the acclaimed southern soul musician, has passed away at the age of 90. The news of his death was confirmed by Rodney Hall, president of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where Carter recorded many of his notable hits. According to Hall, Carter passed away peacefully at his home in Decatur, Georgia, on 13 May.
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Hall expressed deep sorrow at Carter’s passing, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Clarence Carter. He recorded many of his greatest hits at FAME Studios alongside Rick Hall and remained part of the FAME family for more than four decades.” Hall highlighted that Carter was much more than a musical artist; he was considered family by the studio team.
Carter is renowned for his contribution to the Muscle Shoals music scene and the wider American music landscape. Hall noted, “Clarence’s contributions to FAME, the Muscle Shoals Sound, and American music cannot be overstated.” Not only was Carter gifted with an iconic voice, but he was also an accomplished guitarist and songwriter. Remarkably, he achieved these milestones despite being blind since infancy.
Born in Montgomery, Alabama, Carter’s early life was shaped by his blindness. After receiving a guitar for Christmas, he became a self-taught musician and later attended the Alabama School for the Blind. He graduated with a degree in music from Alabama State College in 1960, setting the stage for what would become a remarkable career in music.
In the early 1960s, Carter formed a duo with another blind musician, singer-pianist Calvin Scott. The two initially performed in clubs around Birmingham before signing with FAME Studios in 1965. Shortly after their first single, tragedy struck when Scott was involved in a car accident and had to retire. Carter continued to record, ultimately establishing himself as a prolific recording artist and session musician.
Carter’s musical talents began to shine as he racked up hits on the R&B charts. His 1965 release “Step By Step” and the 1967 track “Tell Daddy” set the tone for his future success. He quickly crossed over into popular music, enjoying further acclaim with songs such as “Slip Away” in 1968 and the Grammy-winning “Patches” in 1970.
His personal life was marked by ups and downs, including a marriage to gospel singer Candi Staton, which ended in divorce. The couple, who married in 1970, had a son together, Clarence Carter Jr., but parted ways in 1973. Over his lifetime, Carter experienced five marriages and divorces.
Despite these challenges, Carter remained dedicated to his craft. He continued to record and perform throughout his life and even established his own record label, Cee Gee Entertainment, in 1996. In a 1998 interview with the New York Times, he expressed his unwavering determination to defy any odds against him, stating, “I’m determined to do what folks say I can’t, and it has a lot to do with a lot of factors, especially when you’re blind.”
Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his hits and accolades. His contributions to soul music have left an indelible mark, influencing countless artists and genres. The music world mourns the loss of a unique talent who overcame significant obstacles to create a rich catalogue of beloved songs.
As fans, friends, and family reflect on Carter’s remarkable life, they find solace in the enduring impact of his music. Rodney Hall concluded his statement by conveying thoughts and prayers for Carter’s loved ones, underscoring the profound respect and admiration the music community holds for this talented artist who will be remembered for his immense contributions to music and the human spirit.