Information/Write-up
Born on April 19, 1943, and leaving an enduring legacy upon her passing on September 1, 2024, Carol Wharton was a Canadian singer with a remarkably powerful voice. Her journey into music began when her family moved to Guelph, Ontario, where she started singing with her brother Gary's band.
The siblings eventually formed a duo, touring across various U.S. states. In 1962, after Gary left the partnership, Carol forged her own path, creating the group Carol Wharton and the Regents. Her talent soon caught the attention of broader audiences, and on April 15, 1965, she delivered a standout performance on the popular after-school rock 'n' roll program Music Hop. She was joined by pianist Norm Amadio and his Rhythm Rockers, as well as the vocal group "The Girlfriends," which included Diane Miller, Rhonda Silver, and Stephanie Taylor.
In 1965, Wharton launched her solo career after signing with Capitol Records. That November, her debut single, the Al Rain-penned “I Always Wake Up Cryin’” (with “The Girl in the Middle” as its B-side), was spotlighted in RPM magazine's November 22, 1965, issue. The magazine described it as a standout Canadian production, mentioning Wharton as “born in Montreal but now living in Ontario.” Her single received attention alongside other Capitol releases, including the novelty hit “Like a Dribblin' Fram” by Race Marbles, which was gaining traction on CHUM 10 Toronto and across Canada: https://citizenfreak.com/titles/297019-race-marbles-like-a-dribbling-fram-b-w-someday
Wharton’s debut made a modest appearance on Billboard in November 1965 and was followed by another Al Rain composition, the double-sided single “Help Me” b/w “Our Love.” Her commanding voice and early contributions to Canadian and international rock ‘n’ roll solidify her place as a trailblazing artist of her time.
Written by Al Rain
Recorded in England
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