Legendary blues and soul singer Clarence Carter has died at the age of 90. The Alabama-born artist, known for his gritty vocals and classic hits including “Patches” and “Strokin’,” passed away Thursday after battling stage 4 prostate cancer, pneumonia, and sepsis. News of his death was confirmed by FAME Studios, the iconic Muscle Shoals recording studio where Carter created many of his biggest records over the course of a career that spanned more than four decades.

Born blind in Montgomery, Alabama, Carter overcame significant challenges to become one of soul music’s most recognizable voices. A self-taught guitarist, he earned a music degree from Alabama State College in 1960 before launching his recording career as part of the duo Clarence & Calvin. He later broke out as a solo artist with a string of hits, including the 1967 single “Tell Daddy,” which inspired Etta James’ response track “Tell Mama.” Carter reached new heights in 1970 with “Patches,” a deeply emotional song about a young man struggling to support his family after his father’s death. The single climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song.

While Carter could deliver heartfelt ballads, he also became famous for his playful and provocative recordings. His 1986 hit “Strokin’” became a cult favorite despite limited radio play because of its explicit lyrics, later gaining renewed popularity after appearing in The Nutty Professor starring Eddie Murphy. Carter’s influence extended into hip-hop as well, with his 1968 holiday track “Back Door Santa” famously sampled by Run-D.M.C. on “Christmas in Hollis.” Carter is survived by his son, Clarence Carter Jr., whom he shared with former wife and soul singer Candi Staton.