Carlton’s early life in Detroit was steeped in music, faith, and community, all of which played vital roles in shaping his artistic identity. Growing up in a working-class environment, he was surrounded by the sounds of church choirs, radio hits, and local performers who treated music not just as entertainment but as a form of expression and survival. Gospel music, in particular, left a lasting imprint on him, teaching him how to convey emotion through phrasing, tone, and dynamics. Inspired by legendary vocalists and encouraged by those who recognized his natural gift, Carlton began performing and recording at an unusually young age. As a pre-teen, he adopted the name Little Carl Carlton, a strategic and symbolic choice that aligned him with other youthful prodigies of the era, most notably Stevie Wonder. In the late 1960s, he released early singles such as “So What” and “Don’t You Need a Boy Like Me,” recordings that showcased his bright, agile voice and hinted at the star potential waiting to be fully realized. Though these songs achieved only modest commercial success at the time, they later gained cult status among collectors and DJs, particularly within Europe’s Northern Soul movement, where rare and energetic soul records were celebrated. In 1968, Carlton’s growing reputation caught the attention of Back Beat Records, prompting a move to Houston, Texas. This relocation marked a crucial period of growth, as he worked closely with experienced producers and songwriters, learning the mechanics of the recording industry and refining his sound. Singles like “Competition Ain’t Nothin’” and “Drop by My Place” reflected a young artist finding his footing, blending youthful exuberance with an increasingly confident vocal presence. His first major breakthrough arrived in 1971 with “I Can Feel It,” a soul track that climbed the Billboard Soul Singles chart and introduced him to a national audience, setting the stage for the defining moments that would soon follow.
