Carl Carlton, Bad Mamma Jama singer and funk legend, dies at 72
Funk legend and R&B singer Carl Carlton has died at the age of 72.
On Sunday, Carlton’s son, Carlton Hudgens II, announced his father’s death in a Facebook post.
“RIP dad, legend Carl Carlton, ‘She’s a Bad Mama Jama’ singer,” he wrote alongside a photo of his father singing on stage. “Fight long and hard in life and we will miss you.”
Hudgens also shared a photo of the late musician on her Facebook Stories and wrote, “RIP dad, you can finally rest now. I will always love you.”
Carlton’s family has not revealed any details about the cause of his death. TMZ reported that the songwriter suffered a stroke six years ago.
Michael Ochs Archives via Getty Images
The funk group Confunkshun also honored Carlton in a Facebook postwriting: “It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of the legendary Carl Carlton. His voice, talent and contributions to soul and R&B music will always be a part of our lives and the soundtrack to so many memories.”
The group added: “Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and fans around the world. Rest in power, Carl. Your legacy lives on.” [prayer hands emoji].”
Carlton began his musical career in the 1960s and then reached the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1974 with his version of “Everlasting Love.”
The vocalist is known for his 1981 hit “She’s a Bad Mama Jama,” which earned a Grammy nomination the following year. Carlton also appeared as himself on screen to perform his songs in movies and shows such as “Friends,” “Miss Congeniality 2” and “Abbott Elementary.”