Podcast Music Intro and Vocals by: Gail Nobles
Photo: Angela George
Usage: CC BY-SA 3.0

Mary Clayton is a soul and Gospel singer she worked with many major recording artist for decades including a duet with Mick Jagger on the Rolling Stones song "Gimme Shelter". Clayton is prominently featured in 20 Feet from Stardom, the Oscar-winning documentary about background singers and their contributions to the music industry.

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. 

Clayton's voice as a backing singer can be heard on songs by Pearl Bailey, Tom Jones, Linda Ronstadt, and Carole King just to name a few. Clayton is often credited as having recorded with Elvis Presley.

Clayton began her recording career in 1962, at the age of 14.  She made studio albums in the 70s Give Me Shelter 1970, 1971 Mary Clayton, 1975 Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow, 1979 Emotion, 1994 Miracles, and in 2021 Beautiful Scars. Beautiful Scars is a beautiful album.

On June 16, 2014, Clayton was critically injured and almost died after being involved in a car crash in Los Angeles, California. She had to loose both her legs at the knees.

 When I hear her singing on her album, I can understand her soulful voice and words to her songs. My favorite gospel single on the gospel album is Beautiful Scars is Touch the Hymn of his Garment. Like Sam Cooke, she can really sing that song. I'm sure she can relate to the woman in the Bible days because a miracle happened for Mary Clayton. God kept her and f God is good. His mercy is as wide as the sea and his love is deeper than the ocean. 

You're listening to a show about the gospel greats. I’m your host, Gail Nobles. Today's topic: Merry Clayton.