The Staple Singers, a family gospel and soul group, left an indelible mark on the music industry with their powerful vocals, socially conscious lyrics, and uplifting spirit. Rooted in gospel music but also embracing elements of soul, folk, and R&B, The Staple Singers created a unique sound that resonated with audiences across generations. Led by the iconic voice of Mavis Staples and the guitar playing of Roebuck “Pops” Staples, the group became a symbol of hope, unity, and resilience during the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular songs by The Staple Singers, each showcasing their incredible talent and enduring legacy.
1. I’ll Take You There
“I’ll Take You There,” released in 1972, is an uplifting, soul-stirring song that epitomizes the spirit and message of The Staple Singers. The song’s infectious groove, driven by a lively bassline and the group’s signature harmonies, creates an atmosphere of joy and unity, inviting listeners to join in a celebration of faith, love, and togetherness. Mavis Staples’ powerful, emotive lead vocals, backed by the family’s tight, gospel-infused harmonies, deliver a message of hope and promise, assuring listeners that better days lie ahead. The lyrics, which speak of a place of peace, freedom, and equality, served as an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement and continue to inspire generations with their timeless message of unity and social justice. “I’ll Take You There” became The Staple Singers’ first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing their status as a leading force in the soul and gospel music scene. The song’s enduring popularity and its ability to bring people together in a spirit of love and understanding have made it a beloved classic, transcending genre and generation. With its irresistible rhythm, uplifting lyrics, and powerful vocal performances, “I’ll Take You There” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their enduring legacy as musical and cultural icons.
2. Respect Yourself
“Respect Yourself,” released in 1971, is a powerful, socially conscious anthem that showcases The Staple Singers’ commitment to spreading messages of self-empowerment and dignity. The song’s funky, soul-infused arrangement, featuring a groovy bassline, crisp horns, and the group’s tight, harmonized vocals, creates an atmosphere of strength and resilience, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ uplifting message. Mavis Staples’ commanding lead vocals, delivered with a sense of conviction and wisdom, urge listeners to stand up for themselves, respect their own worth, and demand respect from others. The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of self-love, integrity, and personal responsibility, served as a rallying cry for the African American community during the Civil Rights Movement and continue to resonate with audiences today. “Respect Yourself” became a major hit for The Staple Singers, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and further establishing the group as a vital voice in the fight for social justice and equality. The song’s enduring popularity and its ability to inspire and empower listeners have made it a timeless classic, celebrated for its powerful message and unforgettable performance. With its irresistible groove, thought-provoking lyrics, and electrifying vocal delivery, “Respect Yourself” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ unwavering commitment to using their music as a force for positive change and personal growth.
3. Let’s Do It Again
“Let’s Do It Again,” released in 1975, is a smooth, romantic soul ballad that showcases The Staple Singers’ versatility and their ability to create emotionally resonant, intimate music. The song’s lush, orchestral arrangement, featuring gentle guitar work, soft horns, and the group’s signature harmonies, creates an atmosphere of tenderness and affection, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ themes of love and devotion. Mavis Staples’ warm, soulful lead vocals, backed by the family’s delicate, harmonized responses, express the joy and contentment of a loving relationship, inviting the listener to share in the couple’s happiness. The lyrics, which celebrate the simple pleasures of spending time with a loved one and the desire to relive and cherish those special moments, are delivered with a sense of sincerity and emotional authenticity that is both deeply moving and universally relatable. “Let’s Do It Again” became a major hit for The Staple Singers, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart and cementing their status as a multi-faceted, crossover success. The song’s enduring popularity and its ability to evoke feelings of love, warmth, and nostalgia have made it a beloved classic, celebrated for its timeless message and beautiful performance. With its gorgeous arrangement, heartfelt lyrics, and exquisite vocal delivery, “Let’s Do It Again” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their ability to create music that speaks directly to the heart.
4. If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me),” released in 1973, is an upbeat, gospel-infused soul song that perfectly captures The Staple Singers’ joyful spirit and their ability to create music that uplifts and inspires. The song’s lively, foot-tapping arrangement, featuring a bouncy bassline, energetic horns, and the group’s tight, harmonized vocals, creates an atmosphere of excitement and celebration, inviting listeners to join in the fun and embrace the message of unity and togetherness. Mavis Staples’ powerful, soulful lead vocals, backed by the family’s dynamic, call-and-response harmonies, express the joy and anticipation of embarking on a journey of faith and love, encouraging listeners to leave their worries behind and follow the path to a better life. The lyrics, which combine spiritual and secular themes, speak of the transformative power of love and the importance of coming together as a community to face life’s challenges and celebrate its blessings. “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” became another major hit for The Staple Singers, showcasing their ability to create music that bridges the gap between gospel and popular soul. The song’s enduring popularity and its ability to bring people together in a spirit of joy and unity have made it a timeless classic, celebrated for its infectious energy and uplifting message. With its irresistible groove, inspiring lyrics, and electrifying vocal performances, “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their enduring legacy as musical and spiritual leaders.
5. Touch a Hand, Make a Friend
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend,” released in 1974, is a heartwarming, gospel-infused soul song that exemplifies The Staple Singers’ commitment to spreading messages of love, unity, and human connection. The song’s gentle, uplifting arrangement, featuring a soft, fingerpicked guitar, tender horns, and the group’s signature harmonies, creates an atmosphere of warmth and compassion, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ themes of friendship and understanding. Mavis Staples’ emotive, soulful lead vocals, backed by the family’s delicate, harmonized responses, express the simple yet profound joy of reaching out to others, offering support, and building relationships based on love and mutual respect. The lyrics, which encourage listeners to bridge divides, overcome prejudice, and embrace the common humanity that binds us all, are delivered with a sense of sincerity and wisdom that is both deeply moving and universally resonant. “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” became another successful single for The Staple Singers, showcasing their ability to create music that speaks to the heart and soul of their audience. The song’s enduring popularity and its ability to inspire acts of kindness and compassion have made it a beloved classic, celebrated for its timeless message and beautiful performance. With its gentle arrangement, poignant lyrics, and heartfelt vocal delivery, “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ unwavering commitment to using their music as a force for positive change and human connection.
6. Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom),” released in 1971, is a lively, funk-infused soul song that showcases The Staple Singers’ ability to create music that is both socially conscious and irresistibly danceable. The song’s groovy, upbeat arrangement, featuring a dynamic bassline, punchy horns, and the group’s tight, energetic harmonies, creates an atmosphere of joy and celebration, inviting listeners to let loose and embrace the power of music to lift their spirits. Mavis Staples’ powerful, soulful lead vocals, backed by the family’s lively, call-and-response harmonies, deliver a message of resilience and determination, encouraging listeners to find happiness and strength in the face of adversity. The lyrics, which combine playful, nonsensical phrases with deeper themes of perseverance and self-empowerment, are delivered with a sense of humor and infectious enthusiasm that is both entertaining and inspiring. “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart, further establishing The Staple Singers as a force to be reckoned with in the world of funk and soul music. The song’s enduring popularity and its ability to bring people together in a spirit of joy and resilience have made it a beloved classic, celebrated for its irresistible groove and uplifting message. With its dynamic arrangement, fun lyrics, and electrifying vocal performances, “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their ability to create music that uplifts and empowers.
7. Who Took the Merry Out of Christmas
“Who Took the Merry Out of Christmas,” released in 1970, is a thought-provoking, socially conscious Christmas song that showcases The Staple Singers’ ability to address serious issues while still celebrating the spirit of the holiday season. The song’s understated, gospel-influenced arrangement, featuring a gentle, fingerpicked guitar, soft percussion, and the group’s signature harmonies, creates an atmosphere of introspection and reflection, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ themes of compassion, unity, and the true meaning of Christmas. Roebuck “Pops” Staples’ warm, earnest lead vocals, backed by the family’s delicate, harmonized responses, question the commercialization and materialism that have come to dominate the holiday, urging listeners to remember the importance of love, generosity, and goodwill towards others. The lyrics, which address issues of poverty, war, and social injustice, are delivered with a sense of empathy and concern, reminding us that the true spirit of Christmas lies in our ability to come together and make a positive difference in the world. “Who Took the Merry Out of Christmas” showcases The Staple Singers’ unwavering commitment to using their music as a platform for social commentary and spiritual reflection. The song’s enduring message and its ability to encourage listeners to reflect on their values and priorities have made it a beloved classic, celebrated for its poignant lyrics and heartfelt performance. With its simple yet powerful arrangement, thought-provoking lyrics, and sincere vocal delivery, “Who Took the Merry Out of Christmas” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their enduring legacy as musical and moral leaders.
8. Wade in the Water
“Wade in the Water,” a traditional gospel song covered by The Staple Singers in 1965, is a powerful, spiritually resonant performance that showcases the group’s deep roots in gospel music and their ability to imbue traditional songs with new meaning and relevance. The song’s stripped-down, acoustic arrangement, featuring Pops Staples’ soulful guitar work and the group’s raw, impassioned harmonies, creates an atmosphere of reverence and emotional intensity, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ themes of faith, perseverance, and spiritual cleansing. Mavis Staples’ fierce, commanding lead vocals, backed by the family’s fervent, call-and-response harmonies, deliver a message of hope and strength in the face of adversity, urging listeners to “wade in the water” of faith and trust in a higher power to guide them through life’s challenges. The lyrics, which draw upon biblical imagery and African American spiritual traditions, are delivered with a sense of urgency and conviction, reflecting the song’s historical context as a coded message of hope and resistance during the era of slavery and the Civil Rights Movement. The Staple Singers’ rendition of “Wade in the Water” has become a classic of the gospel genre, celebrated for its raw emotional power and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep, spiritual level. The song’s enduring message and its ability to inspire faith and resilience have made it a timeless testament to the power of gospel music and the indomitable spirit of the African American community. With its simple yet powerful arrangement, evocative lyrics, and soul-stirring vocal performances, “Wade in the Water” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their enduring legacy as musical and spiritual leaders.
9. When Will We Be Paid
“When Will We Be Paid,” released in 1970, is a powerful, socially conscious song that showcases The Staple Singers’ ability to address issues of racial injustice and economic inequality with unflinching honesty and moral clarity. The song’s driving, funk-influenced arrangement, featuring a pulsing bassline, insistent horns, and the group’s tight, urgent harmonies, creates an atmosphere of righteous anger and determination, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ themes of struggle, perseverance, and the demand for justice. Mavis Staples’ fierce, impassioned lead vocals, backed by the family’s forceful, call-and-response harmonies, deliver a searing indictment of the exploitation and oppression faced by African Americans throughout history, from the days of slavery to the present. The lyrics, which demand reparations for centuries of unpaid labor and systemic injustice, are delivered with a sense of urgency and moral authority, reflecting the group’s unwavering commitment to the fight for civil rights and economic equality. “When Will We Be Paid” became a powerful anthem of the Black Power movement and a testament to The Staple Singers’ ability to use their music as a force for social change and political awakening. The song’s enduring message and its ability to inspire a sense of solidarity and resistance have made it a timeless classic, celebrated for its unflinching honesty and its powerful call to action. With its dynamic arrangement, hard-hitting lyrics, and electrifying vocal performances, “When Will We Be Paid” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their enduring legacy as musical and political trailblazers.
10. Uncloudy Day
“Uncloudy Day,” a traditional gospel hymn covered by The Staple Singers in 1956, is a beautiful, uplifting performance that showcases the group’s incredible harmonies and their ability to find hope and joy in the face of life’s challenges. The song’s simple, acoustic arrangement, featuring Pops Staples’ gentle guitar work and the group’s shimmering, ethereal harmonies, creates an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ themes of faith, redemption, and the promise of a better world to come. Mavis Staples’ pure, soulful lead vocals, backed by the family’s angelic, harmonized responses, deliver a message of comfort and assurance, painting a vivid picture of a place beyond the trials and sorrows of earthly life, where the sun always shines and tears are wiped away. The lyrics, which draw upon biblical imagery and the African American spiritual tradition, are delivered with a sense of warmth, sincerity, and deep, abiding faith that is both comforting and inspiring. The Staple Singers’ rendition of “Uncloudy Day” has become a beloved classic of the gospel genre, celebrated for its beauty, simplicity, and its ability to touch the hearts and souls of listeners. The song’s enduring message of hope and its ability to provide solace and encouragement in times of trouble have made it a timeless testament to the power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit. With its gentle arrangement, heartfelt lyrics, and exquisite vocal performances, “Uncloudy Day” remains a testament to The Staple Singers’ incredible talent and their enduring legacy as musical and spiritual healers.
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.
