American singer Carl Carlton, celebrated for his distinctive voice and contributions to R&B, soul, and funk, passed away on December 14, 2025, at the age of 72. His son, Carlton Hudgens II, confirmed his death, paying tribute to his father’s artistry, resilience, and enduring impact on music.

Born Carlton Hudgens in Detroit in 1953, Carlton grew up immersed in gospel, Motown, and rhythm and blues, performing from a young age under the name Little Carl Carlton. He gained early recognition with singles like “So What” and “Don’t You Need a Boy Like Me,” later embraced by Europe’s Northern Soul scene. His breakthrough came with the 1971 soul hit “I Can Feel It,” establishing him on the national stage.

Carlton’s 1974 rendition of “Everlasting Love” became a timeless classic, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and enduring as a cultural staple. He continued to evolve musically, achieving iconic success with 1981’s “She’s a Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked),” which earned a Grammy nomination and remains a funk anthem across generations.

Known for his vocal versatility and emotional depth, Carlton moved seamlessly between ballads, funk, pop, and gospel. In 2010, he returned to his spiritual roots with the gospel album God Is Good. Despite a stroke in 2019 that limited his performances, he remained a revered figure in music, leaving a lasting influence through his recordings and the artists he inspired.

Carl Carlton is survived by his family, including his son Carlton Hudgens II. His legacy—anchored by hits like Everlasting Love and She’s a Bad Mama Jama—ensures that his voice and joyous spirit will continue to resonate with fans for generations.