Join us for a gripping episode diving into the life and legacy of Merry Clayton, the soul and gospel powerhouse behind the unforgettable vocals on the Rolling Stones' 1969 classic, "Gimme Shelter." Born on Christmas Day 1948 in New Orleans, Clayton's journey began in her father’s church, singing gospel under the influence of legends like Mahalia Jackson. From her early days as a Raelette for Ray Charles to becoming a sought-after session singer for icons like Elvis Presley, Carole King, and Joe Cocker, Clayton’s voice shaped the sound of a generation.
This episode uncovers the dramatic story of her iconic "Gimme Shelter" session—a late-night, impromptu recording in silk pajamas while four months pregnant, delivering a raw, voice-cracking performance that elevated the song to a rock anthem. We’ll explore the emotional toll of that night, her resilience through personal tragedy, and her broader career, from solo albums like Gimme Shelter (1970) to her spotlight in the Oscar-winning 20 Feet from Stardom. Despite a life-altering 2014 accident, Clayton’s spirit shines through in her 2021 memoir and gospel album, Beautiful Scars. Tune in to celebrate the woman whose voice became a cry to the world, blending gospel soul with rock history.
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