Merry Clayton facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Merry Clayton
Clayton in 2012
Background information
Born	(1948-12-25) December 25, 1948 (age 76) New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
Genres	Soul, gospel
Occupation(s)	Singer
Years active	1962–present
Labels	Ode/A&M MCA Records Motown Gospel/Universal

Merry Clayton (born December 25, 1948) is an American soul and gospel singer with a powerful voice. For many years, she worked as a background singer, adding her vocals to songs by some of the biggest names in music.

One of her most famous performances is the fiery vocal solo in the Rolling Stones' classic song "Gimme Shelter". She also appeared in the Oscar-winning documentary 20 Feet from Stardom, which tells the story of the talented background singers who helped shape popular music.

Early Life and First Steps in Music

Merry Clayton was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Christmas Day, which is why she was named "Merry." Her father was a reverend, and she grew up singing in her father's church. This early experience in gospel music helped shape her powerful singing style.

When her family moved to Los Angeles, she met other singers who encouraged her to start a professional career in music.

A Career as a Powerful Voice

Clayton began her recording career in 1962 when she was just 14 years old. Her first recording was a duet with the famous singer Bobby Darin. A year later, she recorded the first-ever version of the song "The Shoop Shoop Song (It's in His Kiss)".

Early in her career, she toured with the legendary Ray Charles as one of his backup singers, known as the Raelettes. She also sang backup for many other famous artists, including Joe Cocker, Carole King, and Neil Young.

The Famous "Gimme Shelter" Recording

In 1969, Clayton got a late-night phone call to sing on a track for the Rolling Stones. The song was "Gimme Shelter". She arrived at the studio and delivered an incredible, raw vocal performance that became one of the most iconic moments in rock music history.

According to the band's singer, Mick Jagger, they were amazed by her talent. The recording session was a difficult time for Clayton personally, as she experienced a great loss shortly after. Despite this, her performance on the song remains legendary.

Solo Albums and Other Hits

In 1970, Clayton released her own version of "Gimme Shelter" as the title track of her first solo album. She went on to release several more albums and had a few hit singles on the Billboard charts.

Throughout the 1970s, she continued to work with other major artists. She sang backup vocals on Lynyrd Skynyrd's famous song "Sweet Home Alabama". She also starred as the Acid Queen in the first London stage production of The Who's rock opera, Tommy.

In the 1980s, she sang the song "Yes" for the popular movie Dirty Dancing. The song became a Top 50 hit. She also acted in the movie Maid to Order and appeared in the TV show Cagney & Lacey.

Later Career and Recognition

Clayton continued to record and perform in the 1990s and beyond. In 1994, she sang backup on the hit song "Cornflake Girl" by Tori Amos.

In 2013, her amazing career was celebrated in the documentary film 20 Feet from Stardom. The film, which won an Oscar, shined a light on the incredible talent of background singers like Clayton. The film also won a Grammy Award, which was given to Clayton and the other featured artists.

In 2021, she released a new solo album called Beautiful Scars, showing her strength and passion for music.

Personal Life

Clayton was married to jazz musician Curtis Amy from 1970 until he passed away in 2002. Her brother, Sam Clayton, is also a musician.

In 2014, Clayton was in a serious car accident that severely injured her legs. She showed incredible strength and courage during her recovery and has continued to inspire people with her spirit.

Discography

Studio albums

Compilation albums

Singles (selected)

Filmography

See also

In Spanish: Merry Clayton para niños