The Staple Singers were an influential American gospel, soul, and R&B group formed by patriarch Roebuck “Pops” Staples in 1948. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, the family group originally consisted of Pops Staples and his children Cleotha, Pervis, and Mavis Staples. Their music was characterized by tight vocal harmonies, Pops’s distinctive guitar playing, and socially conscious lyrics.
The Staple Singers gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s for their fusion of gospel with elements of soul and R&B, as well as their involvement in the civil rights movement. Hits like “Respect Yourself,” “I’ll Take You There,” and “Let’s Do It Again” topped the charts and became anthems of empowerment and social change. Mavis Staples’s powerful lead vocals and the group’s infectious grooves earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Their music continues to inspire and influence artists across genres, and The Staple Singers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999. Their legacy as pioneers of gospel and soul music, combined with their commitment to social justice, cements their place in music history.
1. I’ll Take You There
“I’ll Take You There” is a classic soul and R&B song by The Staple Singers, released in 1972. Written by Al Bell and originally produced by Al Bell, the song became one of the group’s signature hits. “I’ll Take You There” features a funky groove, driven by a prominent bassline, rhythmic guitar, and uplifting horns, creating an irresistible danceable rhythm. Mavis Staples’s soulful lead vocals, along with the Staple Singers’ tight harmonies, deliver a message of hope and transcendence, promising to uplift listeners to a place of joy and peace. The song’s infectious melody and empowering lyrics made it a chart-topping success and an enduring anthem of the era.
2. Respect Yourself
“Respect Yourself” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1971. Written by Luther Ingram and Stax Records’ songwriter Mack Rice, the song is an empowering anthem that encourages self-respect and social consciousness. The Staple Singers’ version features Mavis Staples’ powerful lead vocals, supported by a funky rhythm section, soulful harmonies, and a prominent horn arrangement.
“Respect Yourself” delivers a strong message about the importance of self-respect and dignity, both individually and collectively. The lyrics address social issues and call for personal responsibility, urging listeners to treat themselves and others with respect to create a better community and society.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. It became one of The Staple Singers’ signature songs and a landmark in the soul and funk genres. “Respect Yourself” has been covered by various artists over the years, including Bruce Willis and The Kane Gang, further cementing its status as a timeless classic.
The Staple Singers’ rendition of “Respect Yourself” remains a powerful and influential track, celebrated for its uplifting message and its contribution to the social and musical landscape of the early 1970s.
3. Slippery People
“Slippery People” is a funky and rhythmic song by the American band Talking Heads, released in 1983 as part of their album “Speaking in Tongues.” Known for its infectious groove and energetic performance, the song features dynamic instrumentation, including funky basslines, driving percussion, and catchy guitar riffs. David Byrne’s distinctive vocals deliver cryptic yet compelling lyrics that explore themes of deceit, manipulation, and the complexities of human interaction. The song’s title and lyrics evoke imagery of slippery or elusive characters, adding to its enigmatic charm. “Slippery People” showcases Talking Heads’ innovative blend of new wave, funk, and art rock, making it a standout track in their discography.
4. Touch A Hand, Make A Friend
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1973. Written by Stax Records songwriters Homer Banks, Carl Hampton, and Raymond Jackson, the song is part of the album “Be What You Are.” Known for its uplifting message and infectious groove, “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is a soulful anthem promoting unity, compassion, and the power of human connection.
The song features Mavis Staples’ dynamic lead vocals, complemented by the harmonious backing vocals of her family members and a vibrant instrumental arrangement, including a strong rhythm section and lively horns. The lyrics encourage listeners to reach out to others with kindness and to build friendships, emphasizing the importance of togetherness and support in creating a positive community.
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” was well-received and achieved commercial success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s positive message and catchy melody have made it a beloved classic in the Staple Singers’ repertoire.
This track exemplifies the Staple Singers’ ability to blend social consciousness with infectious, feel-good music, making it a lasting favorite among fans of soul and gospel music.
5. Oh La De Da
“Oh La De Da” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1973 as part of their album “Be What You Are.” The song is characterized by its upbeat and funky groove, featuring infectious rhythms, soulful vocals by Mavis Staples, and lively instrumentation. “Oh La De Da” exudes a joyful and carefree vibe, with lyrics that celebrate life’s simple pleasures and encourage listeners to embrace happiness and positivity. The Staple Singers’ signature harmonies and energetic performance make “Oh La De Da” a feel-good anthem that resonates with audiences, showcasing the group’s talent for blending gospel, soul, and R&B into captivating music.
6. This World
“This World” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1968 as part of their album “Soul Folk in Action.” The song is a soulful and reflective piece that addresses the challenges and injustices faced in the world. With its emotive vocals by Mavis Staples and poignant lyrics, “This World” captures the struggles of everyday life while offering a message of hope and resilience. The Staple Singers’ distinctive harmonies and the song’s stirring melody create a powerful listening experience, resonating with audiences and highlighting the group’s ability to blend gospel, soul, and social commentary into their music.
7. Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” is a lively and soulful song by The Staple Singers, released in 1971 as a single from their album “The Staple Swingers.” The song features an infectious groove, driven by a funky bassline, upbeat percussion, and spirited horns. Mavis Staples’s soulful vocals shine as she delivers the catchy chorus and energetic verses. “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” celebrates the joy of music and dancing, offering a carefree escape from life’s challenges. With its irresistible rhythm and uplifting lyrics, the song became a hit for The Staple Singers, showcasing their unique blend of gospel, soul, and R&B influences.
8. If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1973 as a single from their album “Be What You Are.” Written by the renowned Stax Records songwriting team of Homer Banks, Carl Hampton, and Raymond Jackson, the song blends soul, gospel, and R&B elements, creating an uplifting and infectious sound.
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” features Mavis Staples’ powerful lead vocals, backed by the harmonious voices of her family members and a robust instrumental arrangement. The song’s lyrics convey a message of hope, unity, and optimism, inviting listeners to join together for a better future. Its chorus, “If you’re ready, come go with me, no hatred will be tolerated, peace, love, and understanding is what we need,” resonates with themes of social change and collective action.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. It became one of The Staple Singers’ signature songs and remains a standout track in their discography.
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” exemplifies the Staple Singers’ ability to combine meaningful messages with catchy, danceable music, making it a timeless anthem for social harmony and positive change.
9. City in the Sky
“City in the Sky” is a soulful track by The Staple Singers, featured on their 1974 album “City in the Sky.” The song captivates listeners with its dreamy melody, lush instrumentation, and Mavis Staples’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, “City in the Sky” explores themes of spirituality and transcendence, inviting listeners to imagine a heavenly realm beyond earthly troubles. The Staple Singers’ harmonies soar, creating a sense of upliftment and hope. With its soul-stirring music and inspiring message, “City in the Sky” stands as a testament to the group’s ability to blend gospel, soul, and social consciousness into a captivating musical experience.
10. Let’s Do It Again
“Let’s Do It Again” is a soul and funk classic by The Staple Singers, released in 1975 as the title track for the soundtrack of the film of the same name. Written and produced by Curtis Mayfield, the song features a seductive groove, characterized by a funky bassline, rhythmic guitar, and catchy horns. Mavis Staples’s smooth and sultry vocals exude sensuality and passion as she delivers the lyrics, which speak of romantic longing and the desire to rekindle a special connection. “Let’s Do It Again” became a chart-topping hit, showcasing The Staple Singers’ ability to infuse their music with irresistible energy and emotion.