The Staple Singers were an American gospel, soul, and R&B group formed in 1948 by patriarch Roebuck “Pops” Staples alongside his children Cleotha, Pervis, Yvonne, and Mavis Staples. They initially started as a gospel group, singing spirituals and traditional hymns, but later transitioned to a more soulful sound, blending gospel with rhythm and blues.
In the 1960s and 1970s, The Staple Singers became known for their socially conscious lyrics and involvement in the civil rights movement, with songs such as “Respect Yourself” and “I’ll Take You There” becoming anthems of empowerment and social change. Their music featured Pops Staples’ distinctive guitar playing and Mavis Staples’ powerful lead vocals.
The group’s crossover success led to multiple hits on both the gospel and R&B charts. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999 and received numerous accolades for their contributions to music and activism. The Staple Singers’ legacy continues to influence soul, gospel, and R&B music to this day.
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 and Tom Nixon, the song features a catchy and upbeat rhythm, with Mavis Staples delivering powerful vocals that exude both joy and determination.
“I’ll Take You There” became one of The Staple Singers’ biggest hits, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the R&B chart. The song’s lyrics convey a message of hope and unity, inviting listeners to find peace and happiness in a better place beyond their troubles. Its infectious groove and uplifting spirit made it an anthem of positivity during a tumultuous era in American history.
The song remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its soulful sound, memorable melody, and the unmistakable voice of Mavis Staples. “I’ll Take You There” continues to resonate with audiences, embodying the enduring legacy of The Staple Singers’ music and their impact on soul and R&B genres.
2. Respect Yourself
“Respect Yourself” is a classic soul song by The Staple Singers, released in 1971 on their album of the same name. The song is characterized by its infectious groove, upbeat rhythm, and powerful message of self-empowerment and social consciousness.
Lyrically, “Respect Yourself” encourages listeners to take pride in themselves and their actions, emphasizing the importance of self-respect and dignity. The song’s lyrics address social issues such as discrimination and injustice, urging individuals to stand up for their rights and demand respect from others.
Musically, “Respect Yourself” features The Staple Singers’ distinctive gospel-influenced harmonies, with Mavis Staples’ soulful vocals leading the charge. The song incorporates elements of funk and R&B, creating a vibrant and energetic sound that resonated with audiences during the civil rights movement era.
“Respect Yourself” became a significant hit for The Staple Singers, reaching high positions on the charts and becoming an anthem for empowerment and social change. The song remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its positive message and infectious groove that continues to inspire listeners to this day.
3. Slippery People
“Slippery People” is a song by Talking Heads, released in 1983 on their album “Speaking in Tongues.” It is known for its funky and infectious groove, featuring rhythmic guitars, prominent bass lines, and David Byrne’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics, written by David Byrne, explore themes of uncertainty, deceit, and the complexities of human relationships.
“Slippery People” gained popularity for its energetic and danceable sound, blending elements of new wave, funk, and rock. The song’s title and chorus suggest a metaphorical exploration of individuals who are difficult to pin down or trust (“slippery people, slip, slip, slip, slip, slippery people”). The accompanying music video, directed by Toni Basil, features the band’s energetic performance and abstract imagery, adding to its visual appeal.
Over the years, “Slippery People” has been celebrated for its innovative sound and lyrical depth, becoming a favorite among Talking Heads fans and a staple in their live performances. It remains a standout track that reflects the band’s eclectic musical style and David Byrne’s unique approach to songwriting and performance.
4. Touch A Hand, Make A Friend
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is a soul and gospel song by The Staple Singers, released in 1974 on their album “City in the Sky.” The song is characterized by its uplifting and joyful melody, accompanied by The Staple Singers’ trademark harmonies and energetic instrumentation.
Lyrically, “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” promotes the idea of spreading kindness and goodwill through simple gestures of friendship. The song encourages listeners to reach out to others, make connections, and foster relationships that transcend barriers of race, class, or background.
Musically, the song features a lively rhythm and catchy chorus that invites participation and celebration. It reflects The Staple Singers’ commitment to delivering messages of positivity and unity through their music, drawing from their gospel roots to inspire and uplift audiences.
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” became a popular track for The Staple Singers, resonating with listeners who appreciated its message of community and solidarity. The song’s infectious energy and feel-good vibes continue to make it a 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 on their album “Be What You Are.” It’s a soulful and funky track that showcases the group’s energetic vocals and rhythmic groove.
The song “Oh La De Da” is characterized by its lively instrumentation, including a prominent bassline and horn section, which give it a vibrant and upbeat feel. The lyrics convey a message of resilience and positivity, encouraging listeners to keep moving forward despite challenges or setbacks.
“Oh La De Da” became a popular song for The Staple Singers, known for its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus. It exemplifies their ability to blend soul, funk, and gospel influences into a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences during the 1970s.
Overall, “Oh La De Da” remains a standout track in The Staple Singers’ discography, celebrated for its energetic performance and positive vibe that continues to uplift listeners.
6. This World
“This World” by The Staple Singers is a soulful track from their 1972 album “Be Altitude: Respect Yourself.” The song reflects the group’s trademark blend of gospel, soul, and R&B influences, delivering a message of social consciousness and unity.
Lyrically, “This World” addresses issues of injustice, inequality, and the need for positive change in society. The Staple Singers’ powerful vocals, led by Mavis Staples, convey a sense of urgency and hope, urging listeners to come together to make a difference in the world.
Musically, the song features a driving rhythm and soulful instrumentation, including horns and gospel-inspired harmonies. The Staple Singers’ ability to infuse their music with messages of empowerment and social awareness made “This World” a significant track during the civil rights movement era and beyond.
Overall, “This World” remains a poignant reminder of The Staple Singers’ commitment to using their music as a platform for social change, inspiring generations with its timeless message and soul-stirring melodies.
7. Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1971 on their album “The Staple Swingers.” Written by Jerry Akines and Homer Banks, the song is an upbeat and soulful track with a catchy chorus and infectious groove.
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” became a hit for The Staple Singers, reaching the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the top 10 on the R&B chart. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy and satisfaction that comes from embracing life’s pleasures and enjoying oneself, underscored by Mavis Staples’ powerful vocals and the group’s tight instrumentation.
The song remains a classic example of The Staple Singers’ ability to blend gospel, soul, and R&B into a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. Its energetic and uplifting vibe made it a favorite on radio and in live performances, further solidifying its place in soul music history.
8. If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a classic soul song by The Staple Singers, released in 1973 on their album “Be What You Are.” The song is known for its infectious groove, soulful vocals, and uplifting message.
Lyrically, “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a call to action, inviting listeners to join together and embrace love, unity, and positivity. The song’s lyrics encourage people to take a leap of faith and embark on a journey together, supporting each other along the way.
Musically, the song features a lively rhythm section, soulful horn arrangements, and The Staple Singers’ trademark harmonies led by Mavis Staples. The combination of these elements creates a feel-good atmosphere that resonated with audiences during the 1970s.
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” became a popular hit for The Staple Singers, showcasing their ability to blend gospel, soul, and R&B influences into a compelling and uplifting sound. The song remains a favorite among fans of classic soul music, celebrated for its infectious energy and positive message.
9. City in the Sky
“City in the Sky” is a song by The Staple Singers, released in 1974 on their album “City in the Sky.” The song, written by Homer Banks and Bettye Crutcher, is characterized by its soulful and spiritual lyrics, blending gospel influences with R&B and funk elements.
“City in the Sky” reflects The Staple Singers’ trademark style of delivering socially conscious messages through music. The lyrics metaphorically depict a utopian city above the clouds, where peace, love, and harmony prevail. Mavis Staples’ soul-stirring vocals and the group’s tight harmonies give the song a powerful and uplifting quality.
The album “City in the Sky,” including the title track, received critical acclaim and showcased The Staple Singers’ ability to blend spiritual themes with contemporary musical styles. “City in the Sky” remains a standout in their discography, embodying their commitment to social justice and spiritual upliftment through music.
10. Let’s Do It Again
“Let’s Do It Again” is a soul and funk song by The Staple Singers, released in 1975. It served as the title track for the soundtrack of the film of the same name. The song features a smooth and laid-back groove, with The Staple Singers’ trademark harmonies and Mavis Staples’ soulful vocals.
Lyrically, “Let’s Do It Again” conveys themes of love, romance, and the joy of being together. The lyrics express a desire to relive and savor moments of intimacy and connection with a loved one. The song’s upbeat and infectious melody made it a favorite on the charts and in the hearts of fans.
“Let’s Do It Again” became a major hit for The Staple Singers, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of their most successful singles. Its popularity was bolstered by its inclusion in the soundtrack of the romantic comedy film “Let’s Do It Again,” starring Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby.
Overall, “Let’s Do It Again” remains a classic in soul and funk music, celebrated for its smooth groove, memorable vocals, and timeless appeal that continues to captivate listeners.