History
Carroll Thompson, born in Letchworth, Hertfordshire in 1960, is a prominent English singer celebrated for her contributions to the lovers rock genre, particularly during the 1980s.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Thompson's musical journey began in her youth with participation in school and church choirs. Despite an initial inclination towards a career in pharmacy, her passion for music led her to the recording studio.
Career Development and Solo Success
In the mid-1970s, Thompson transitioned into the music industry as a backing vocalist, securing opportunities at various recording studios after an audition for Frank Farian's Sugar Cane group. This experience paved the way for her solo career.
Her solo debut was marked by significant success in the lovers rock scene. The singles "I'm So Sorry" and "Simply In Love," both produced by Leonard Chin, achieved the number one spot on the reggae chart in 1981. This same year saw the release of her debut album.
Awards and Collaborations
Thompson's talent was recognized with multiple accolades. In 1982, she received two GLR Reggae Awards, earning honors for Best Female Performer and Best Song for "Hopelessly In Love." She continued this winning streak in 1983, once again being named Best Female Performer at the GLR awards.
Throughout her career, she collaborated with notable artists, recording duets such as "Make It With You" with Sugar Minott and "Love Won't Let Us Wait" with Trevor Walters. She consistently delivered solo hits on the reggae charts.
Later Career and Notable Releases
Following a period of reduced releases in the mid-1980s, Thompson experienced a career resurgence in 1990. She provided lead vocals on a rendition of Diana Ross's "I'm Still Waiting," a collaboration with Aswad and Courtney Pine that achieved moderate success on the UK Singles Chart. That same year, she also had minor chart success with Movement 98 on the tracks "Joy & Heartbreak" and "Sunrise."
In 1993, she worked with producer Neil "Mad Professor" Fraser on the album The Other Side Of Love.
Personal Life
Carroll Thompson is married to Dotun Adebayo, a presenter for Radio 5 Live.