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Dean Carter (June 11, 1937 – April 24, 2023) was a unique figure in ’60s rock, blending the heart of ’50s rockabilly with elements of ’60s garage rock, soul, and psychedelia. Born Arlie Neaville in Champaign, IL, he began his music career in the late ’50s and recorded under various names, including Arlie Nevil and Dean Carter. His notable singles include the 1967 release “Jailhouse Rock”/”Rebel Woman” on the Milky Way label, which has become a collector's item despite its rockabilly roots feeling somewhat out of place in the era. Carter recorded for several labels throughout the ’60s, including Ping, Fraternity, and Limelight. In 1964, he co-founded a home studio in Danville, IL, with fellow musician Arlie Miller, where they also launched the Milky Way label. His sessions were known for their eclectic instrumentation, featuring ukulele, accordion, dobro, and clarinet alongside traditional rock elements. In the late ’60s, Carter moved to the West Coast, where he recorded singles with Gene Vincent guitarist Jerry Merritt for the Tell International label. He eventually returned to the Midwest, resuming collaborations with Miller and reverting to his original name, Arlie Neaville. In the early ’70s, he shifted his focus to gospel music.

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