Mavis Staples is an American gospel, soul, and R&B singer who has been active in the music industry for over six decades. She was born in Chicago in 1939 and grew up performing with her family’s gospel group, The Staples Singers. After achieving success in the gospel music scene, Mavis embarked on a solo career in the 1960s and began collaborating with some of the most prominent artists in the industry, including Bob Dylan and Prince.
Throughout her career, Mavis Staples has been celebrated for her powerful and soulful voice, which has brought her numerous accolades and awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004. She has also been recognized for her activism and involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, using her music as a platform to address social and political issues. Mavis’s discography spans over 20 studio albums, including the critically acclaimed “We’ll Never Turn Back” and “You Are Not Alone,” which was produced by Jeff Tweedy of Wilco.
Mavis Staples’ music is characterized by its uplifting and empowering themes, as well as her distinctive voice and the powerful arrangements that accompany it. Her songs often touch on issues of love, faith, and social justice, and her performances are renowned for their electrifying energy and emotion. Mavis Staples continues to tour and record music, inspiring generations of musicians and fans with her soulful voice and unwavering commitment to creating positive change through music.
1. “I’ll Take You There”
“I’ll Take You There” is a classic soul and gospel song by Mavis Staples, released in 1972. The song features Staples’ powerful and soulful vocals, backed by a funky rhythm section and a soaring gospel choir. Its lyrics speak of a place of hope and joy, where troubles and pain are left behind, and the journey there is made with love and compassion. “I’ll Take You There” has become a beloved classic of the soul and gospel genres, inspiring countless artists and remaining a staple of the American musical canon. Its message of hope and love continues to resonate with audiences today.
2. “Respect Yourself”
“Respect Yourself” is a socially conscious soul anthem by Mavis Staples and her family band The Staple Singers. The song urges listeners to take pride in themselves and their community, and to treat others with respect. Mavis’ soulful vocals are front and center, delivering powerful lyrics like “If you don’t respect yourself, ain’t nobody gonna give a good cahoot.” Released in 1971, the song became a hit and remains a classic of both soul and gospel music. Its message of self-respect and empowerment continues to resonate with audiences today.
3. “You Are Not Alone”
“You Are Not Alone” is a soulful gospel song by Mavis Staples. It was written and produced by Jeff Tweedy of the alternative rock band Wilco. The song was released as the lead single from Staples’ album of the same name in 2010. The song features Tweedy on guitar and harmony vocals, while Staples’ powerful voice takes center stage. It is a song of comfort and hope, reminding listeners that even in their darkest moments, they are not alone. The song received critical acclaim and earned Staples a Grammy Award nomination for Best Americana Album.
4. “If All I Was Was Black”
“If All I Was Was Black” is a soulful and introspective song by Mavis Staples, released in 2017. The song features Staples’ signature vocals, backed by a sparse and haunting arrangement of guitar and drums. Its lyrics speak of the racial divide in America, calling for unity, understanding, and empathy in the face of systemic oppression and discrimination. “If All I Was Was Black” is a powerful and timely reflection on the ongoing struggles for racial justice in America, with Staples’ heartfelt vocals and poignant lyrics making it a standout track in her extensive and influential musical career.
5. “Touch A Hand, Make A Friend”
“Touch A Hand, Make A Friend” is a soulful and uplifting song by Mavis Staples, released in 1974. The song encourages listeners to connect with others and create positive change in their communities through acts of kindness and friendship. Mavis’ powerful vocals soar over a funky and groovy instrumental arrangement, punctuated by horns and gospel-inspired backing vocals. The song’s catchy chorus, “Touch a hand, make a friend, make this world a better place if you can” is a call to action that continues to inspire listeners today. “Touch A Hand, Make A Friend” is a timeless classic that embodies Mavis’ message of love, unity, and empowerment.
6. “Eyes on the Prize”
“Eyes on the Prize” is a powerful protest song that was originally an African-American gospel song. Mavis Staples delivers an impassioned performance in her version, accompanied by a simple acoustic guitar and handclaps. The lyrics speak to the struggles and injustices faced by the Civil Rights movement, and urge listeners to keep their eyes on the prize of freedom and equality. Staples’ voice is full of soulful grit and determination, adding to the intensity of the song’s message. “Eyes on the Prize” is a moving tribute to the courage and resilience of those who fought for justice during the Civil Rights era.
7. “Hard Times”
“Hard Times” is a powerful and soulful song by Mavis Staples, released in 2019. The song features Staples’ commanding vocals, backed by a driving rhythm section and a powerful brass section. Its lyrics speak of the struggles and hardships of life, urging the listener to persevere in the face of adversity and hold onto hope. “Hard Times” is a passionate and uplifting anthem for those going through difficult times, with Staples’ powerful vocals and the song’s driving rhythm and brass section providing a sense of strength and resilience that is sure to inspire and uplift listeners.
8. “Down in Mississippi”
“Down in Mississippi” is a powerful and poignant song by Mavis Staples, released in 2007. The song tells the story of the struggles and injustices faced by African Americans in the southern United States, including poverty, discrimination, and violence. Mavis’ soulful and emotive vocals are accompanied by a bluesy and atmospheric instrumental arrangement, featuring slide guitar and gospel-inspired backing vocals. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of life in the Mississippi Delta and the ongoing fight for civil rights and social justice. “Down in Mississippi” is a testament to Mavis’ unwavering commitment to using her music as a platform for social change and activism.
9. “Freedom Highway”
“Freedom Highway” is a powerful civil rights anthem that was written by Roebuck “Pops” Staples and first performed by The Staple Singers in 1965. Mavis Staples recorded a solo version of the song in 2017, over 50 years after its original release, and it remains just as relevant today. The gospel-infused track features Staples’ soulful vocals and a stirring organ accompaniment, conveying a message of hope and perseverance in the face of racial injustice. The song’s lyrics call for the movement toward freedom to continue, as they describe the journey of those who came before and the challenges they faced. “Freedom Highway” is a timeless reminder of the power of music in inspiring social change.
10. “Can You Get to That”
“Can You Get to That” is a funky and upbeat track by Mavis Staples, originally written and performed by Funkadelic in 1971. Mavis’ cover version was released in 2013 on her album “One True Vine”. The song’s infectious groove and catchy melody are enhanced by Mavis’ soulful vocals and the gospel-inspired backing choir. The lyrics celebrate the joy and unity of music, encouraging listeners to embrace their shared humanity and let go of their differences. “Can You Get to That” is a standout track on “One True Vine”, showcasing Mavis’ versatility and her ability to infuse even the funkiest of songs with her signature soulfulness.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
