Member Since: 01/12/2005
Band Website: http://carltonblountmusic.com/
Band Members:
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Influences: Carlton Blount (pronounced "Blunt") was a winner on the popular television talent contest "Showtime At The Apollo," but his greatest success prior to releasing "(From) A Man's Point Of View" was as a member of The Main Ingredient, which he joined in 1999 after lead vocalist Cuba Gooding Sr. left to pursue a solo project.One of the MI's members heard a demo tape via a mutual music industry associate, and Carlton was immediately recruited."Singing with The Main Ingredient was very special. I feel privileged that they thought enough to ask me," says Blount. "When you listen to the former lead singers of the group, they were exceptional. So for them to ask me to step in those shoes, it meant a great deal to me." Carlton is showcased prominently on the group's 2001 album, “Pure Magic.â€
The 6'1" former track and football standout has been blessed to be able to make a steady living in the music business since leaving college. The crooner found endless work singing jingles and recording the music for television shows like "The Cosby Show" and "A Diff'rent World." He has also recorded over 200 ad spots for clients such as Mobil, Purina Puppy Chow, Pepsi and Marriott. "You have undoubtedly heard me in the past, you just didn't know it was me," Blount jokes.
Before joining The Main Ingredient, Carlton polished his chops by singing backup for the incomparable Patti LaBelle. In addition, he served as a special guest/opening act for Al Green, Ray Charles, The Four Tops and of course, The Temptations. He has also recorded with Michael Bolton and the late Grover Washington, Jr. "I've had the privilege to work with lots of big name folks…It's indeed an honor."
Like many aspiring artists Carlton Blount's initial interest in music came when he was a youngster listening to his parent's records. "My parents listened to a lot of Gladys Knight and Ray Charles when I was coming up," Carlton shares. "And then came Teddy Pendergrass, whom I got to see live in concert. That was a life-changing experience. I never saw women react to anyone like that before. I thought to myself, 'Now, what is he doing that makes these women lose their minds?' He was singing from his heart and soul. And I knew that was something that I wanted to do."
Regardless of all the glitz and glamour associated with the music biz, Carlton's goal is not to acquire endless bling bling and become a big business mogul. His mission is to stay in top vocal form, create timeless soul music and tell insightful stories with his songs. "I think a lot of R&B is formulaic and commercial these days. I am aiming to bring it back to its golden era without all the gimmicks and tricks. I think true music will stand the test of time. This is all from my point of view."
Record Label:
Type of Label: Indie