Merry Clayton
Merry Clayton (born December 25, 1948) is an American soul and gospel singer. She contributed vocals to numerous tracks and worked with many major recording artists for decades, including a duet with Mick Jagger on the Rolling Stones song "Gimme Shelter".[1] Clayton is prominently featured in 20 Feet from Stardom, the Oscar-winning documentary about background singers and their contributions to the music industry.
Merry Clayton
December 25, 1948
New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
1962–present
Early life[edit]
Clayton was born in Gert Town, New Orleans, Louisiana. She was born on Christmas Day, and was given the name "Merry" because of the December 25th birthdate. She is the daughter of Eva B. Clayton and the Reverend A.G. Williams, Sr.
Clayton was raised in New Orleans as a Christian, and spent much of her time in her father's parish, New Zion Baptist Church. After moving to Los Angeles, she met members of the Blossoms, who convinced her to pursue a music career.[2]
Personal life[edit]
Clayton was married to jazz artist Curtis Amy from 1970 until his death in 2002.[16] Their son, Kevin Amy, has also pursued a musical career.[17] Her brother is Little Feat percussionist Sam Clayton.[18]
Clayton had a miscarriage upon returning home from recording "Gimme Shelter", according to the Los Angeles Times.[19]
On June 16, 2014, Clayton was critically injured and almost died after being involved in a car crash in Los Angeles, California[20] that caused both of her legs to be amputated at the knees due to her suffering "profound trauma to her lower extremities."[21]