Hamilton was born in Galveston, Texas, United States and brought up in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Three years later, in 1965, he began his professional career as lead singer with David Batiste and the Gladiators.
His career there lasted until the mid-1970s, during which time he toured with Curtis Mayfield, Bettye Swann, Jackie Wilson, Percy Sledge, David Ruffin, Major Lance, Z.
He also wrote songs for Oliver Morgan ("I Love Rhythm and Blues"); Jean Knight ("Save the Last Kiss for Me"); and Johnny Adams ("More Than One Way").
[2][3] Hamilton met Allen Toussaint in the late 1970s and accompanied his group on tour.