Carl Carlton’s death was reported in December 2025, with his family announcing the news. There is some inconsistency in published sources over his exact age and birth year, so the article below avoids repeating an uncertain figure as fact. (Los Angeles Times)

Carl Carlton, Voice Behind “Everlasting Love,” Remembered for a Lasting Musical Legacy

The music world has lost a distinctive voice whose songs became part of the soundtrack of several generations.

Carl Carlton, the Detroit-born R&B, soul, and funk singer best known for his performances of “Everlasting Love” and “She’s a Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked),” died in December 2025. His family announced his passing, with his son sharing an emotional tribute on social media. No official cause of death was announced.

For longtime fans, Carlton’s passing marked the loss of an artist whose career stretched across six decades.

From Detroit to the National Stage

Born Carlton Hudgens in Detroit, Carlton began performing professionally while still young. During his early years, he was known as “Little Carl Carlton,” a stage name connected to the similarity listeners noticed between his voice and that of Stevie Wonder.

He eventually established himself under the name Carl Carlton and began building a career in soul and R&B.

His early success included the 1971 song “I Can Feel It,” which helped introduce him to a wider audience. But his biggest breakthrough was still ahead.

The Song That Made Him a Household Name

In 1974, Carlton released his version of “Everlasting Love,” originally recorded by Robert Knight.