He took Carr to the Goldwax label, although it took four singles before his distinctive style became apparent, with 'You've Got My Mind Messed Up' displaying a deep intensity that few of his contemporaries could match. Further US R&B hits followed with 'Love Attack' and 'Pouring Water On A Drowning Man', and in 1967, 'Dark End of the Street' became the definitive 'cheating' song, with Carr's guilt laced Southern vocal leading to many cover versions.
Increasingly, Carr's fragile personality was being affected by drug abuse, and 'To Love Somebody' became his final hit in 1969. The Goldwax labe was bankrupted the following year, prompting a move to Atlantic Records for 'I'll Put It To You' (1971).
Continuing personal and health problems affected Carr until 1977, when the impoverished singer was eventually re-united with ex-manager Jamison. A single appeared on the River City label, 'Let Me Be Right', and the singer reputedly returned to gospel singing soon after.
Resuming his recording and touring activities over a decade later, Carr emerged with 'Take Me To the Limit' in 1991, and played several dates in Europe.
Carr is a virtual unknown in commercial terms, but those who have heard his voice are immediately aware of his extremely personal style, with only Otis Redding able to match him for sheer intensity of emotion. An excellent compilation of all of Carr's Goldwax recordings has been issued on C.D. recently, and is the perfect introduction to this woefully under-exposed soul singer.
IF YOU LIKE THESE, YOU'LL LIKE JAMES CARR: Otis Redding, Percy Sledge, Sam & Dave, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Wilson Pickett.