Carla Thomas: The Queen of Memphis Soul
In the vibrant tapestry of soul music, Carla Thomas stands as a true luminary, hailed as the Queen of Memphis Soul. Born on December 21, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, Carla emerged from a rich musical heritage to leave an indelible mark on the genre.
Carla’s musical journey began within the walls of the iconic Stax Records, where her father, Rufus Thomas, was a renowned disc jockey. Growing up in this environment exposed her to the rhythms and blues that would become the foundation of her own musical expression. Carla, along with her father, would later become one of the label’s inaugural artists, forging a legacy that resonates to this day.
Stax Records, synonymous with the Memphis sound, became the perfect crucible for Carla’s talent to flourish. Teaming up with another Stax legend, Otis Redding, the duo created magic with timeless duets such as “Tramp” and “Knock on Wood.” Carla’s voice, sultry and emotive, seamlessly blended with Redding’s, creating a unique sound that defined an era and solidified her status as a soul powerhouse.
Carla Thomas’s solo career skyrocketed with hits like “Gee Whiz (Look at His Eyes),” a poignant ballad that showcased her ability to convey the depth of emotion. Her collaboration with Otis Redding extended beyond duets, as she delivered solo performances that became chart-toppers, including “B-A-B-Y” and “I Like What You’re Doing (To Me).”
In 1961, Carla released her debut album, aptly titled “Gee Whiz,” which not only featured the eponymous hit but also solidified her standing as a solo artist. Subsequent albums like “Comfort Me” (1966) and “The Queen Alone” (1967) further showcased Carla’s versatility, as she effortlessly navigated between soulful ballads and upbeat, danceable tunes.
Carla Thomas’s influence extends beyond her musical prowess; she played a pivotal role in breaking racial and gender barriers within the music industry. As one of the first female artists signed to Stax Records, she paved the way for future generations of female musicians, proving that soul and passion transcend gender.
Carla Thomas’s impact on the world of music has not gone unnoticed. Her contributions were recognized when she became the first woman to be awarded the Pioneer Award from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation in 1993. The honour affirmed her status as a trailblazer in the industry, whose influence reverberates through the generations.
Carla Thomas’s voice remains a timeless force in soul music. Her ability to infuse raw emotion into every note, coupled with her charismatic stage presence, cements her as a legendary figure in the annals of soul. Whether revisiting her classic hits or discovering her music for the first time, listeners continue to be captivated by the undying soulful allure of Carla Thomas.
In the rich history of soul music, Carla Thomas emerges not just as a singer but as a cultural force, a trailblazer whose legacy continues to resonate, ensuring that the Queen of Memphis Soul reigns eternally.
Perry Timms
April 2024
Perry is the Founder and Chief Energy Officer of People and Transformational HR Ltd (PTHR) and is a Chartered Member of the CIPD, a fellow of the RSA and Visiting Professor at 4x Business Schools in the UK. Perry is a 3x published author; a 2x TEDx Speaker and 5x Member of HR’s Most Influential Thinkers List ranking Number 1 in 2022. Perry’s musical heritage lies most deeply in 1960s American Soul/R&B and British Soul & Funk from the 1980s-date.