The Staple Singers were an American gospel, soul, and R&B group formed in Chicago, Illinois in 1948. The group consisted of Roebuck “Pops” Staples and his children Cleotha, Pervis, and Mavis. The Staple Singers’ music was deeply rooted in gospel, but they also incorporated elements of soul, folk, and rock, creating a sound that was uniquely their own.
The group’s early recordings were primarily gospel, and they gained a following on the gospel circuit with hits such as “Uncloudy Day” and “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” In the 1960s, they began to expand their sound and address social and political issues in their music. Their music became more overtly political and began to resonate with the civil rights movement.
The Staple Singers’ music was characterized by Pops’ distinctive guitar playing and Mavis’ powerful and soulful vocals. They had numerous hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including “Respect Yourself,” “I’ll Take You There,” and “Let’s Do It Again.” Their music was not only popular but also had a significant impact on the civil rights movement and the fight for social justice.
The Staple Singers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, and their influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary artists. Their legacy is one of music that not only entertains but also inspires and uplifts, serving as a reminder of the power of music to bring about positive change.
1. Oh La De Da
“Oh La De Da” is an upbeat and catchy soul track by The Staple Singers, released in 1973. The song features Mavis Staples’ powerful vocals and Pops Staples’ distinctive guitar playing, backed by a tight rhythm section and lively horns. The lyrics are about living life to the fullest, with a message of joy and celebration. The chorus, “Oh la de da, everybody’s gotta have a good time,” is a catchy and infectious hook that invites listeners to join in the fun. “Oh La De Da” is a quintessential example of The Staple Singers’ unique blend of gospel, soul, and R&B.
2. This World
The Staple Singers’ “This World” is a powerful gospel song that speaks to the struggles and injustices of the world. The song’s lyrics highlight the challenges of poverty, racism, and inequality that exist in our society, and implore listeners to seek justice and equality for all. The Staple Singers’ powerful vocals and soulful harmonies amplify the song’s message, creating an emotionally charged experience for listeners. “This World” is a timeless anthem that continues to inspire and uplift those fighting for a better world, and reminds us of the power of music to bring about social change.
3. Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
“Heavy Makes You Happy” is a soulful and uplifting song by The Staple Singers, released in 1971. The track features a powerful rhythm section, soaring horns, and the captivating vocals of Mavis Staples, all working together to create an infectious groove that is impossible to resist. The song’s lyrics are a celebration of the joys of life and love, encouraging listeners to let go of their worries and embrace the happiness that comes from living in the moment. With its infectious beat and positive message, “Heavy Makes You Happy” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this day.
4. Touch A Hand, Make A Friend
“Touch A Hand, Make A Friend” by The Staple Singers is a soulful and upbeat track that speaks to the importance of human connection and friendship. The song’s catchy melody and joyful lyrics inspire listeners to reach out and connect with others, regardless of their differences. The Staple Singers’ signature harmonies and Mavis Staples’ powerful vocals add a sense of urgency to the song’s message, making it a call to action for listeners to come together and build community. “Touch A Hand, Make A Friend” is a timeless reminder of the power of human connection and the role we can all play in creating a more compassionate world.
5. If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a soulful and funky track by The Staple Singers, released in 1973. The song features Mavis Staples’ powerful and soulful vocals, backed by a groovy bassline, catchy guitar riffs, and a lively horn section. The lyrics are about inviting someone to join in a journey of love and togetherness, encouraging them to leave behind their worries and troubles. The song became a hit, reaching number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has remained a beloved classic of the era. “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a testament to The Staple Singers’ ability to create music that is both uplifting and danceable.
6. Slippery People
“Slippery People” is an upbeat and energetic track by The Staple Singers, released in 1984. The song features a funky groove and a driving rhythm, with the powerful vocals of Mavis Staples leading the way. The lyrics speak to the challenges of dealing with insincere and deceptive people, urging listeners to stay true to themselves and not be swayed by those who would try to pull them off course. With its catchy melody and infectious energy, “Slippery People” is a dynamic and engaging track that showcases The Staple Singers’ unique blend of gospel, soul, and funk influences.
7. City in the Sky
“City in the Sky” is a beautiful and ethereal song by The Staple Singers, released in 1974. The track features a dreamy and atmospheric sound, with gentle acoustic guitars and lush vocal harmonies creating a sense of floating weightlessness. The lyrics speak to the desire for a better world, imagining a utopian city in the sky where all are equal and at peace. With its poetic imagery and uplifting message, “City in the Sky” is a moving and inspiring track that showcases The Staple Singers’ ability to create soulful and thought-provoking music.
8. Respect Yourself
“Respect Yourself” by The Staple Singers is a timeless soul track that promotes self-respect and encourages listeners to demand the same from others. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook create an irresistible groove, while its lyrics deliver a powerful message about the importance of standing up for oneself and treating others with dignity and respect. Mavis Staples’ dynamic vocals drive the song’s message home, making it a powerful anthem for social justice and equality. “Respect Yourself” is a reminder that every person deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, and that we all have a responsibility to create a more just and equitable society.
9. Let’s Do It Again
“Let’s Do It Again” is a soulful and funky track by The Staple Singers, released in 1975. The song was written by Curtis Mayfield and featured prominently in the soundtrack of the film of the same name. The track features Mavis Staples’ powerful and soulful vocals, backed by a tight rhythm section and a horn section. The lyrics are about a couple who are rekindling their love and wanting to relive their romantic moments. The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart, and cemented The Staple Singers’ status as one of the most influential and beloved soul groups of the era.
10. I’ll Take You There
“I’ll Take You There” is a classic soul track by The Staple Singers, released in 1972. The song features Mavis Staples’ soulful and powerful vocals, backed by a groovy bassline, a catchy guitar riff, and a lively horn section. The lyrics are about finding a place of love and happiness, where all of life’s troubles can be left behind. The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has remained an enduring classic of the era. “I’ll Take You There” is a testament to The Staple Singers’ unique and timeless sound, blending gospel, soul, and R&B in a way that is both uplifting and inspiring.
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.
