Clarence Carter, soul singer known for 'Patches' and 'Strokin',' dies at 90

NEW YORK (AP) — Clarence Carter, the blues and soul singer-songwriter known for hits like “Patches” and “Strokin’,” has died at age 90. Carter, born blind in Montgomery, Alabama, taught himself guitar and majored in music at Alabama State College. His biggest hit, “Patches,” came in 1970. It tells the story of a poor country boy who must take over the family farm. Carter was also known for raunchy songs like “Slip Away” and “Back Door Santa.” He recorded many hits at Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Carter and fellow singer Candi Staton were briefly married in the 1970s.

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