The Staple Singers were an American gospel, soul, and R&B group known for their powerful harmonies and socially conscious lyrics. Formed in the 1940s, the group originally consisted of family members Mavis Staples, Pops Staples, Cleotha Staples, Pervis Staples, and Yvonne Staples. They gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with hits like “I’ll Take You There,” “Respect Yourself,” and “Let’s Do It Again.” Their music often combined gospel roots with a strong social message, reflecting the civil rights movement and themes of empowerment. The Staple Singers’ influential sound and uplifting songs earned them a lasting place in American music history.
1. I’ll Take You There
“I’ll Take You There” is a 1972 hit single by The Staple Singers, featured on their album *Be Altitude: Respect Yourself*. The song is a soulful, uplifting anthem with a gospel-inspired sound, known for its catchy chorus and Mavis Staples’ powerful vocal performance. The lyrics offer a message of hope and spiritual guidance, reflecting the group’s strong roots in gospel music. “I’ll Take You There” was a major commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B charts. Its infectious groove and positive message have made it a timeless classic in The Staple Singers’ repertoire.
2. Respect Yourself
“Respect Yourself” is a 1971 single by The Staple Singers, released on their album *The Staple Singers*. The song is a dynamic blend of gospel, soul, and funk, featuring a powerful message about self-respect and personal dignity. Written by Luther Ingram and Mack Rice, the track’s energetic rhythm and motivational lyrics emphasize the importance of self-worth and treating others with respect. Mavis Staples’ commanding vocal delivery and the song’s infectious groove contributed to its success, making it a top hit on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B charts. “Respect Yourself” remains an iconic anthem of empowerment and social consciousness.
3. Slippery People
“Slippery People,” performed by The Staple Singers and featured on their 1984 album *Be Yourself*, is a soulful and funky track with a compelling groove. The song showcases the group’s signature blend of gospel, soul, and rhythm and blues. Its upbeat tempo, infectious rhythm, and powerful vocals create a dynamic sound that reflects the band’s ability to merge spiritual messages with popular music styles. The track’s lyrics address themes of authenticity and resilience, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself amidst challenges. “Slippery People” remains a vibrant example of The Staple Singers’ enduring influence on soul and gospel music.
4. Touch A Hand, Make A Friend
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is a 1974 single by The Staple Singers from their album *Be Altitude: Respect Yourself*. The song features a soulful, gospel-influenced sound and carries a warm, uplifting message about the importance of human connection and kindness. With its catchy melody and harmonious vocals, the track encourages listeners to reach out to others and make meaningful connections. The song’s positive, community-oriented message is reflective of The Staple Singers’ broader commitment to social and spiritual themes in their music. “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is celebrated for its heartfelt message and its contribution to the group’s legacy of inspirational songs.
5. Oh La De Da
“Oh La De Da,” released by The Staple Singers in 1971, is a classic soul and gospel track known for its smooth melody and uplifting vibe. Featured on their album *The Staple Singers*, the song combines elements of gospel, soul, and funk, with Mavis Staples’ powerful vocals leading the charge. The track’s lyrics express a joyful and carefree attitude, celebrating the simple pleasures of life and the importance of staying positive. With its infectious rhythm and feel-good message, “Oh La De Da” exemplifies The Staple Singers’ unique ability to blend spiritual themes with engaging, mainstream music.
6. This World
“This World” is a 1974 track by The Staple Singers from their album *Be Altitude: Respect Yourself*. The song features the group’s signature soulful, gospel-inspired sound and focuses on themes of social justice, unity, and spirituality. With its moving lyrics and powerful delivery by Mavis Staples, “This World” emphasizes the need for compassion and collective action to improve society. The track is noted for its reflective message and strong vocal performance, reinforcing The Staple Singers’ reputation for creating music with a meaningful impact and resonant message.
7. Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom),” released by The Staple Singers in 1971, is a lively and upbeat track that blends soul, funk, and gospel influences. The song features a catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and the vibrant vocal performance of Mavis Staples. Its lyrics emphasize the joy and positivity that come from embracing life and its experiences, encouraging listeners to let go of negativity and focus on happiness. The track’s infectious groove and feel-good message helped it become a hit, showcasing The Staple Singers’ ability to deliver both spiritually uplifting and rhythmically engaging music.
8. If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)
“If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)” is a 1973 single by The Staple Singers, featured on their album *Be Altitude: Respect Yourself*. The song is a soulful, upbeat track that combines elements of gospel, soul, and funk. It features an inviting, catchy melody and Mavis Staples’ warm, engaging vocals. The lyrics extend a heartfelt invitation to join in on a journey of togetherness and spiritual upliftment. The song became a major hit, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B charts and gaining widespread popularity for its infectious rhythm and positive message.
9. City in the Sky
“City in the Sky” is a 1974 song by The Staple Singers, featured on their album *Be Altitude: Respect Yourself*. The track is characterized by its uplifting and soulful sound, with lyrics that reflect themes of hope, aspiration, and spiritual transcendence. The song’s title suggests a vision of a better, more idealized world, aligning with the group’s broader messages of empowerment and community. With its rich vocal harmonies and engaging rhythm, “City in the Sky” contributes to the album’s overall theme of social and spiritual upliftment, resonating with the band’s legacy of inspirational music.
10. Let’s Do It Again
“Let’s Do It Again” is a 1975 single by The Staple Singers from their album of the same name. The song, written and produced by Curtis Mayfield, features a smooth blend of soul, funk, and gospel elements. Its upbeat tempo and infectious groove celebrate the joy of rekindling a loving relationship and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Mavis Staples’ powerful and emotive vocals drive the track, which became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. “Let’s Do It Again” remains a classic in The Staple Singers’ discography, known for its feel-good vibe and memorable melody.
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.
