Carl Mitchell Hampton, born in 1943, was a notable pianist, songwriter, and producer in the R&B and soul music genres. He grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, where he attended Booker T. Washington High School, located near the future site of the iconic Stax Records. A self-taught musician, Hampton began playing piano in his early childhood and later pursued a career in music, initially working as a talent scout and manager for local artists.

Hampton's career took a significant turn when he joined We Produce Records, a subsidiary of Stax, as a songwriting lead. During his time there, he collaborated with artists such as The Temprees and Ernie Hines, co-writing songs like “(Follow Her) Rules and Regulations” and “I’m for You, You for Me” for The Temprees. However, seeking greater resources, he transitioned to Stax Records, where he worked with prominent artists including Rufus Thomas, arranging the popular track “Do the Push and Pull.”

Carl Hampton also formed a successful songwriting partnership with Homer Banks, contributing to the rich legacy of Stax Records. Hampton's compositions have been featured in various compilations and albums, showcasing his enduring influence in the music industry. Throughout his career, he worked with numerous artists and his songs have been recorded by a wide range of performers, highlighting his versatility and impact as a songwriter.