Carla Thomas, heralded as the "Queen of Memphis Soul," holds an iconic place in the annals of American R&B and soul music. Born on December 21, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, she is the daughter of Rufus Thomas, a notable figure in the blues genre. Carla's foray into the music industry was marked by her early hit "Gee Whiz" in 1960, which became a significant success, setting the stage for her illustrious career. Her partnership with Stax Records, a label synonymous with the Memphis soul sound, propelled Thomas to new heights. Throughout the 1960s, she released a series of hits that would cement her legacy in the music world, including "B-A-B-Y" and "I'll Bring It Home to You." Her collaboration with Otis Redding on the album "King & Queen" produced the beloved classic "Tramp," showcasing her dynamic range and powerful vocal presence.

Over the decades, Carla Thomas has demonstrated remarkable staying power and adaptability, continuing to perform and capture the hearts of new generations of fans. The releases such as "Let Me Be Good to You: The Atlantic & Stax Recordings (1960-1968)" and her live albums, including performances at the 1989 Memphis Music & Heritage Festival and Live in Europe, reflect both her storied history and her enduring impact on the music world. Thomas's contributions to the soul and R&B genres have earned her numerous accolades and a revered place in music history. She remains an influential figure and source of inspiration for artists across genres, embodying the spirit and resilience of Memphis soul.

Genres

Memphis Soul

Soul

Southern Soul

Related Artists

Aretha Franklin

Otis Redding

Etta James

Wilson Pickett

Sam Cooke

Solomon Burke

Booker T. & the M.G.'s

Patti LaBelle

Mavis Staples

Amy Winehouse

Rufus Thomas

Jessie J

Latest Release

Friendship [Feat. Carla Thomas and Stax Music Academy]

Valerie June•

Carla Thomas

Single - Released July 1, 2024