Clarence Paul facts for kids

Clarence Otto Pauling (born March 19, 1928 – died May 6, 1995), known as Clarence Paul, was an American songwriter and record producer. He was also a singer. He became famous for his work with Motown Records in Detroit.

Early Life and Music Beginnings

Clarence Paul was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. His parents were Lowman Pauling and Arsula Price. His brother, Lowman Pauling Jr., was also a talented musician.

The two brothers started a gospel group called the Royal Sons Quintet. This group later became the famous singing group The "5" Royales. When Clarence moved to Detroit in the 1950s, he shortened his last name to "Paul." He did this so people wouldn't confuse him with his older brother.

Working in Music Production

In 1958, Clarence Paul had one of his first big successes as a songwriter. He helped write and record the song "I Need Your Lovin'." This song later became a hit for another singer, Roy Hamilton.

Clarence Paul joined Motown Records, a very important music company. At Motown, he became a key person for Stevie Wonder. He was Stevie Wonder's mentor and main producer when Stevie was a teenager. A mentor is someone who guides and teaches a younger person.

Paul helped write Stevie Wonder's first big hit song, "Fingertips" (1963). He also sang backup for Stevie Wonder on songs like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "Funny How Time Slips Away".

Clarence Paul also produced early songs for The Temptations. He wrote or co-wrote other popular songs like "Until You Come Back to Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do)". This song was first for Stevie Wonder, but Aretha Franklin made it a number one hit. He also wrote "Hitch Hike" for Marvin Gaye. This song was later covered by famous bands like The Rolling Stones. In the early 1970s, Paul moved from Detroit to Los Angeles.

Later Years

Clarence Paul later retired to Las Vegas, Nevada. He passed away on May 6, 1995, in Los Angeles, California. He was 67 years old. He died from health problems related to heart disease and diabetes.

Selected Songs and Albums

Clarence Paul worked on many songs and albums throughout his career. Here are some of the singles and albums he was involved with:

Singles

Albums