The Staple Singers, an iconic family gospel group hailing from Chicago, have left an indelible mark on the music industry with their soul-stirring harmonies and poignant lyrics. For decades, their distinctive blend of gospel, soul, and R&B has captivated audiences around the world, making them one of the most celebrated and influential acts in American music history. From their early beginnings in the 1950s to their chart-topping success in the 1970s, the Staple Singers have produced a catalog of timeless classics that continue to resonate with listeners today. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best songs by the Staple Singers, showcasing their incredible talent and the profound impact they have had on the musical landscape. From empowering anthems of civil rights to heartfelt spiritual ballads, each song on this list represents the group’s unparalleled ability to fuse social consciousness with captivating melodies. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, prepare to be moved and inspired as we delve into the rich musical legacy of the Staple Singers and their top 10 greatest songs of all time.
1. This World
The Staple Singers' song "This World" invites listeners to reflect on the challenges and injustices of our society. With Mavis Staples' soulful vocals, the group sings about the pain and suffering that people face every day, urging us to work together towards a better world. The powerful lyrics and gospel-influenced melody make "This World" one of their most poignant and inspiring songs.
Continuing with the theme of social justice, "Respect Yourself" reminds us to value ourselves and demand respect from others. It is a lively and upbeat song that encourages self-empowerment and positive change. The Staple Singers were known for their activism, particularly in the Civil Rights Movement, and this song is a testament to their commitment to promoting equality.
As well as tackling serious issues, The Staple Singers also had a playful side. "I'll Take You There" is a funky, feel-good track that became one of their biggest hits. Its catchy chorus and infectious groove are impossible not to dance along to. The song's uplifting message of unity and love still rings true today.
One unique aspect of the Staple Singers' music was their ability to blend genres seamlessly. "Let's Do It Again" combines elements of funk and R&B with gospel harmonies to create a smooth yet powerful sound. It became another hit for the group, showcasing their versatility as musicians.
The Staple Singers' dedication to activism is evident in all aspects of their music, including "Long Walk To D.C." This powerful ballad tells the story of the 1963 March on Washington, highlighting the struggle for racial equality. With haunting vocals and emotive instrumentation, it is a moving tribute to those who fought for civil rights.
In contrast to some of their more serious songs, "Heavy Makes You Happy" is an upbeat celebration of life's simple pleasures. Its infectious hook and joyful lyrics are a reminder to appreciate the good things in life and find happiness wherever we can.
Another example of their ability to blend genres is "City in the Sky." This psychedelic soul track features ethereal harmonies and trippy instrumentation, creating a dreamy and otherworldly atmosphere. It is a standout track that shows just how innovative The Staple Singers could be.
"Uncloudy Day" is a classic gospel song that The Staple Singers reinterpreted with their own unique flair. Their version has a bluesy edge, with Mavis Staples' powerful vocals leading the way. It is a timeless song of hope and redemption that showcases the group's deep roots in gospel music.
"No Clouds In Sight" is another jubilant celebration of life's joys. With its lively rhythm and catchy hook, it is impossible not to feel uplifted by this infectious song. The Staple Singers' ability to balance serious themes with playful moments was one of their greatest strengths.
To fully appreciate The Staple Singers' impact on music and society, it's important to listen to their entire catalogue. Each song tells a story and contributes to their legacy as icons of social justice and musical innovation. Don't miss out on what makes them so special.
If you can resist tapping your foot to "Oh La De Da", you may want to check if you still have a pulse.
2. Oh La De Da
This upbeat folk-gospel song, filled with joyful harmonies and a lively beat, is a classic example of The Staple Singers' signature sound. It was released in 1971 as part of their album 'The Staple Swingers'. The lead vocals by Mavis Staples add a fiery element to the song that makes it captivating until the very last beat.
The rhythmic accompaniment with the guitar and drums complement the powerful lyrics of the song, making it both dance-worthy and thought-provoking. Overall, 'Oh La De Da' represents The Staple Singers' love for gospel music while infusing it with modern-day sounds and elements.
It is worth noting that this song was not only loved by audiences but also appreciated by fellow musicians. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years since its release.
Pro Tip: Give more unforgettable tracks like 'Oh La De Da' a listen on The Staple Singers' discography to understand their unique sound better.
Listening to The Staple Singers' 'Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)' is like getting a warm embrace from a stack of pancakes dripping with syrup – pure comfort and joy.
3. Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
This song will uplift your mood. The third entry on the list, it's titled 'Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom).' With its lively tune and captivating lyrics, this track is a must-have at any party playlist. The Staple Singers' amazing harmonies and Mavis Staples' soulful voice make it a fan favorite.
The upbeat rhythm of 'Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)' will make you want to dance along. Its catchy chorus will leave you humming the tune long after it's over. This song showcases The Staple Singers' signature sound – a fusion of gospel, soul, and R&B.
The Staple Singers' 'Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)' was released in 1971. The song reached number 27 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained popular for months. It features Al Bell, one of the best producers of his time who creates an outstanding music arrangement.
It is noteworthy that this tune was used by President Barack Obama during his campaign rallies in 2008 much to fans’ delight.
Need a new friend? Just touch their hand and play this song by The Staple Singers – it's a proven method.
4. Touch A Hand, Make A Friend
This track's title refers to a lovely message of friendship, which The Staple Singers vividly portrayed through their soulful singing. The lyrics encourage listeners to connect with others and make new friends by just reaching out to them. The music adds a touch of hope and warmth to the words that can easily lift one's mood.
'Touch A Hand, Make A Friend' presents an inspiring message that the world needs more today than ever before. It is not only about making friends but also about realizing that we all have something in common that ties us together. The song was released as a single in 1974 and performed exceedingly well on both R&B and Pop charts.
The live version of 'Touch A Hand, Make A Friend' showcases the power of the song even better as it allowed The Staples Singers to interact with their fans while they sang their hearts out in unison. With this track, the band did more than entertain; they changed lives by spreading love and positivity with every beat of music.
When Prince noticed Mavis Staples hesitating to perform 'Touch A Hand, Make A Friend' years later due to her aging voice, he encouraged her by performing the backing vocals himself at his Paisley Park studio. Such is the lasting impact of this timeless song.
Get ready to feel the funk with The Staple Singers' 'If You're Ready (Come Go With Me)' – just don't blame us if you suddenly start busting out some funky dance moves.
5. If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)
The soulful R&B classic "If You're Ready (Come Go With Me)" by The Staple Singers is one of their most iconic songs to date. This track features a catchy chorus and upbeat melody that will keep you grooving all night long. It also has a socially conscious message promoting unity and love, which was a hallmark of this group's music.
As expected from the Staple Singers, the instrumentation on "If You're Ready" is rich and complex, blending elements of gospel, soul, and R&B into a seamless whole. The lead vocals provided by Mavis Staples are powerful yet nuanced, captivating listeners with her emotion-laden delivery.
What sets "If You're Ready" apart is its ability to get people moving while simultaneously delivering a positive message. This track is an excellent representation of The Staple Singers' unique style, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.
Did you know that this song was once used as part of an advertising campaign for KFC? That's right – the fast food giant used "If You're Ready" to promote their restaurant chain in the early 1990s! Despite this somewhat incongruous usage, the song still managed to retain its cultural significance and remains a beloved classic today.
Slippery People: Not just a Talking Heads song, but also the feeling you get when you try to dance to the irresistible grooves of The Staple Singers.
6. Slippery People
This section explores one of the top 10 songs by The Staple Singers, showcasing their unique style of gospel-infused soul. This song, which we will refer to as 'Sixth track: Elusive individuals,' features powerful vocals and a driving beat that captures the listener's attention from start to finish. With its thought-provoking lyrics and unforgettable melody, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who hears it.
The Staple Singers' expertly blend gospel, soul, and R&B in this track, creating a sound that is undeniably their own. The use of call-and-response vocals and dynamic instrumentation adds depth and intensity to the music, making it impossible not to move along with the beat. Their message about staying true to oneself in the face of adversity resonates deeply with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
What sets this particular song apart from others on our list is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, whether it be blasting through your car speakers on a road trip or at a lively gathering of friends. Regardless of where you are or what you're doing, this undeniable classic is certain to make you feel good while imparting an important message.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate The Staple Singers' artistry, take some time to delve deeper into their discography beyond just their hits. You'll discover even more gems that are sure to become new favorites!
Even if you're afraid of heights, 'City in the Sky' by The Staple Singers will lift your spirits higher than any skyscraper.
7. City in the Sky
This particular song by The Staple Singers talks about an imaginary place high above the Earth, where problems and worries cannot reach. 'City in the Sky' is an uplifting track that encourages listeners to keep their heads up during tough times.
The lyrics of 'City in the Sky' celebrate a serene and idyllic location, where one can live without the anxieties that prevail on Earth. This song's message is about keeping hope alive and being optimistic even amid hardship.
One notable detail about this song is that it was written by Randle Chowning of Ozark Mountain Daredevils fame. Chowning crafted a compelling tune with catchy lyrics that still resonates with fans today.
To experience the cathartic effect of The Staple Singers' classic 'City in the Sky,' put on your headphones and let Mavis Staples’ soulful voice pierce through you, immersing you in this timeless song's transcendental power.
Take a moment out of your day to appreciate these legends of gospel music for creating such beautiful pieces of art. Don't miss out on discovering their other timeless classics from the past!
Respect yourself, and listen to The Staple Singers – they know a thing or two about standing up for what's right.
8. Respect Yourself
This iconic song, urging people to value themselves and demand respect from others, was one of The Staple Singers' greatest hits. Its upbeat rhythm combined with the powerful vocals of Mavis Staples has made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire listeners today. "Respect Yourself" emphasizes the importance of self-worth while also promoting unity and equality amongst all individuals. This song is not just a catchy tune, but a message that remains relevant in our society today.
In addition to its uplifting message, "Respect Yourself" showcases The Staple Singers' incredible musicianship with its mix of gospel, soul and R&B styles. Released in 1971 on Stax Records, this track became an instant hit on the charts, reaching number two on Billboard's Hot 100 and number one on the R&B chart. Its success opened new doors for The Staple Singers and solidified their place as music legends.
It's worth noting that The Staple Singers were more than just a successful band; they were trailblazers for social change during the Civil Rights Movement. Alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., they used their music as a platform to spread messages of peace and justice throughout America. Their activism inspired many others and helped pave the way for progress towards racial equality.
Fun Fact: Aretha Franklin also recorded a cover of "Respect Yourself" in 1971, which became another major hit for her career.
Now this is the kind of do-over we can all get behind, as The Staple Singers remind us why we fell in love with their music in the first place.
9. Let’s Do It Again
This iconic classic, exuding timeless energy and charisma, has become one of The Staple Singers’ most beloved songs.
- Groove to the Rhythm – Allow yourself to be swept away by the infectious beat outlining this song's playful tone.
- Enjoy the Storyline – Immerse yourself in this narrative-driven tune, which tells a tale of love and romance.
- Embrace the Vibes – Get lost in the smooth harmonies as they transport you to a place of euphoria and nostalgia.
In addition, 'Let’s Do It Again' showcases The Staple Singers’ versatility and keen sense of creative intuition, making it a testament to their monumental career.
Fun Fact: This funky track crossed over from the world of music into cinema, with its use in two films, including 'How High'.
Going to church has never been so funky, thanks to the Staple Singers delivering us 'I’ll Take You There'.
10. I’ll Take You There
This song is a classic hit from The Staple Singers that has stood the test of time. Its catchy chorus, "I'll take you there", creates an infectious groove that gets everyone on their feet. The upbeat rhythm and soulful vocals make it an unforgettable tune beloved by people of all ages.
The lyrics are simple yet profound, with messages of hope and unity that resonate even today. This song was a masterpiece in its time and continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
In addition to its popularity, "I'll Take You There" has been covered by several well-known artists such as BeBe Winans, Mavis Staples, and General Public, among others. This cover was so impactful that it earned a spot on a list ranking the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time by Rolling Stone.
If you're looking for a song to lift your spirits and move your body, "I'll Take You There" is a perfect choice. Its melodic beats will have you dancing in no time. If you haven't heard it yet, give it a listen; this soul-stirring tune is sure to become one of your favorites!