Famed soul and gospel singer Merry Clayton, one of the subjects of the 2013 Oscar-winning documentary 20 Feet From Stardom, was seriously injured in a car accident on June 16th in Los Angeles, according to a statement issued on her website.
The statement reads:
"It is with deep regret, but also deep gratitude, that we announce the following about our beloved Merry Clayton. At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Monday, June 16, 2014, Merry was involved in a mjaor automobile accident in Los Angeles, California. Merry sustained severe injuries to her lower body, including major trauma to her lower extremities. We are truly grateful that our dear Merry is still with us.
She has a long road of recovery ahead and we thank you all for your prayers as we link arms together with faith and the Lord's strength for her rapid healing. For all that know her personally, and those that have been blessed by her God-given talents, please know that her spirit is very strong and her faith unwavering. Her voice is not silenced and His praises continue to be on her lips.
We do ask that you please respect her and her family's privacy during this difficult time. All inquiries should be directed to Alan Abrahams at alanabrahams.com or alanabrahamsmusic@gmail.com."
Born in New Orleans in 1948, Clayton began her recording career in 1962, singing with legendary artists such as Bobby Darin, Ray Charles, and Neil Young. She is perhaps best known for her soulful contributions to the Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter" in 1969, and Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" in 1974. In 2013, she was featured in the documentary 20 Feet From Stardom, which followed the careers of Clayton and many other famed backup singers.
Listen to her performance in "Gimme Shelter" below:
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