The Staple Singers are more than just a legendary gospel-inspired soul group—they are a cornerstone of American music history. With their uplifting harmonies, socially conscious lyrics, and infectious melodies, this family band transcended genres and generations, leaving an indelible mark on gospel, R&B, and pop music. From church choirs to civil rights marches, their music has served as a soundtrack for hope, resilience, and change. Led by the iconic voice of Mavis Staples and the guiding hand of “Pops” Staples, their songs have an unparalleled ability to inspire, comfort, and ignite the spark for justice and unity.
But which songs truly define their legacy? In this article, we count down the top 10 most popular tracks by The Staple Singers—the songs that not only climbed the charts but also touched hearts and changed lives. From soulful anthems of empowerment to tender ballads of love and faith, these timeless classics showcase the group’s extraordinary talent and enduring influence. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering them for the first time, this list is a celebration of the music that made The Staple Singers a household name. Let’s dive into their most iconic hits and revisit the magic of their unmatched artistry!
1. “I’ll Take You There” (1972)
“I’ll Take You There” isn’t just a song—it’s a soulful journey toward hope, healing, and unity. Released in 1972, this iconic hit became The Staple Singers’ defining anthem, thanks to its hypnotic groove, reggae-inspired bassline, and the warm, commanding vocals of Mavis Staples. The song doesn’t use complex lyrics or elaborate instrumentation; its power lies in its simplicity and spirit. With each repetition of “I’ll take you there,” listeners are invited into a vision of a better world—one filled with peace, love, and spiritual liberation. The call-and-response structure, a hallmark of gospel and soul traditions, turns the track into a communal experience, almost like a church service on the dance floor. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the era’s most beloved crossover hits. More than five decades later, the song still resonates. It’s often used in movies, rallies, and church services to stir the soul and lift the spirit. Whether you hear it in a civil rights documentary or on a summertime playlist, “I’ll Take You There” remains a powerful reminder that music can still carry us to higher ground.
2. “Respect Yourself” (1971)
“Respect Yourself” is one of those songs that speaks directly to your soul and gives you a little push to walk taller. Released in 1971, it came during a time of deep cultural reflection and unrest in America, and The Staple Singers delivered a message that felt both personal and political. With a funky rhythm, tight instrumentation, and Mavis Staples’ unmistakable voice at the helm, the song is both a groove and a sermon. Its lyrics challenge listeners—especially the Black community during the civil rights era—to recognize their own worth and demand dignity. The line “If you don’t respect yourself, ain’t nobody gonna give a good cahoot” delivers tough love with gospel wisdom. The track, co-written by Stax labelmates Luther Ingram and Mack Rice, found a sweet spot between soul, funk, and social consciousness. But what makes the song endure is its universal truth: real change begins from within. “Respect Yourself” isn’t just about self-esteem—it’s about reclaiming power, standing tall, and setting the tone for how others should treat you. Decades later, its message still hits home, urging every generation to hold their heads high and never forget their value.
3. “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” (1973)
There’s a gentle warmth to “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” that wraps around you like a familiar hug. Released in 1973, this track radiates love, unity, and faith through a mellow groove and gospel-infused harmonies. It’s an invitation—not a demand—for listeners to step into a better way of living. The song’s message is rooted in hope: “If you’re ready, come go with me to a new life.” There’s something deeply comforting about the way The Staple Singers blend soul rhythms with spiritual optimism, creating music that’s both relaxing and uplifting. Mavis Staples’ lead vocal is warm and reassuring, while the rest of the group echoes her with effortless grace. It’s not just a love song, and it’s not just a gospel track—it’s a merging of both worlds, grounded in compassion and a belief that change is possible if we move together. The tune was another hit for the group, climbing the charts and resonating with fans who longed for connection and kindness in a divided world. Even today, “If You’re Ready” reminds us that stepping toward love and unity is a choice—and the invitation is always open.
4. “Let’s Do It Again” (1975)
Smooth, sultry, and unmistakably soulful, “Let’s Do It Again” shows a whole different side of The Staple Singers. Released in 1975, this track marked a departure from their gospel roots and leaned into sensual, romantic territory—with brilliant results. Penned and produced by Curtis Mayfield, the song featured silky melodies, a relaxed groove, and Mavis Staples’ captivating vocals, proving the group’s versatility beyond gospel and protest anthems. It’s a love song with a grown-up vibe—warm and intimate without being overly explicit. The production is soft and rich, with strings and keys that float effortlessly behind the vocals. At its heart, “Let’s Do It Again” celebrates the joy of romantic connection, the kind that’s both emotional and physical, with an easygoing energy that makes it endlessly replayable. The song topped both the R&B and pop charts, showing that The Staple Singers could still evolve and find success in a changing musical landscape. It remains a fan favorite, not only for its sensuality but for how naturally the group made the transition from church pews to candlelit slow jams. With this track, they reminded everyone that soul music, at its best, speaks to every part of the human experience.
5. “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” (1971)
Joyful, quirky, and full of life, “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” is a feel-good soul anthem that lives up to its name. Released in 1971, the song is a celebration of the simple pleasures that make life worth living. With a funky rhythm, playful horns, and a chorus you can’t help but sing along to, the track radiates good vibes from start to finish. The lyrics are refreshingly lighthearted, celebrating the idea that happiness doesn’t come from wealth or fame—it comes from love, laughter, and being surrounded by the right people. Mavis Staples delivers the lead with a mix of sass and sunshine, while the group’s harmonies add to the upbeat energy. Written by Jeff Barry and Bobby Bloom, the song may not carry the deep social messages of some of The Staple Singers’ other work, but it taps into another kind of power—the power of positivity. It became a Top 40 hit and a crowd favorite, offering a musical escape full of joy. “Heavy Makes You Happy” reminds us that soul music can be both profound and playful, and that sometimes, all you need is a groove to turn your whole day around.
6. “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” (1974)
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is the kind of song that feels like a warm embrace from an old friend. Released in 1974, it’s an uplifting, gospel-tinged anthem that celebrates kindness, empathy, and the simple yet powerful act of reaching out to others. The Staple Singers had always been about spreading hope and unity, and this track distills those values into a joyful, singable tune. With its driving rhythm and soul-soaked harmonies, the song encourages listeners to break down walls and build human connections—something that felt deeply needed in the divided climate of the ’70s, and still rings true today. Mavis Staples leads with a voice full of sincerity and encouragement, supported by the family’s rich vocal blend. The message is simple but profound: when we take the time to truly see and care for each other, we make the world a better place. Whether played in a church, a family reunion, or a protest, “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” carries a spirit of togetherness that’s impossible to ignore. It’s a timeless reminder that sometimes healing the world starts with just one gesture—one hand reaching out in love.
7. “This World” (1972)
“This World,” released in 1972, is a stirring blend of soul and gospel that delivers a powerful message about navigating the chaos of life with strength and purpose. The song addresses the struggles of injustice, hardship, and moral decay, yet it doesn’t give in to despair. Instead, it offers a call to action—to rise above, to persevere, and to hold onto your values no matter what the world throws at you. The Staple Singers had a knack for weaving spiritual wisdom into everyday realities, and this track is a shining example of that. Mavis Staples delivers her lines with soulful authority, giving weight to every word. The rhythm section provides a steady, determined pulse that mirrors the song’s theme of pushing forward with resolve. “This World” speaks to anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by what they see around them and reminds us that there’s still a place for hope, courage, and conviction. It’s not just a song—it’s a motivational push, the kind that gets you back on your feet when life has knocked you down. With its mix of groove and grit, “This World” continues to inspire listeners to keep walking the right path.
8. “City in the Sky” (1974)
“City in the Sky” is one of The Staple Singers’ most spiritually uplifting tracks, painting a vivid picture of a promised land beyond the struggles of everyday life. Released in 1974, the song draws heavily from the group’s gospel roots, weaving a vision of a place where peace reigns, burdens are lifted, and love is everlasting. It’s not just a metaphorical escape—it’s a declaration of faith and longing for divine justice. The melody is both dreamy and grounded, with a slow build that gives space for the lyrics to shine. Mavis Staples sings with a blend of conviction and longing, her voice leading listeners through a journey of hope and heavenly aspiration. The harmonies feel like a choir of angels backing her up, creating a soundscape that’s both comforting and transcendent. “City in the Sky” speaks to anyone who has felt the weight of the world and needs a reminder that something greater lies ahead. It’s a spiritual balm for weary souls, inviting them to lift their eyes above the clouds. Whether taken literally or symbolically, the song captures a deep yearning for a better place—and the faith that we’ll get there.
9. “Oh La De Da” (1973)
“Oh La De Da” is pure joy pressed onto vinyl. Released in 1973, the song captures The Staple Singers at their most playful and carefree. With its catchy chorus and bouncy rhythm, it’s the kind of tune that instantly lifts your spirits and gets your feet moving. The title itself—nonsensical and whimsical—sets the tone for a track that’s all about living in the moment, embracing life, and finding happiness in togetherness. It’s a celebration of family, friendship, and good times, delivered with the group’s signature blend of gospel-inflected soul and funk. Mavis Staples shines with a spirited, lively vocal that draws you in, while the rest of the group brings energy and harmony that feel like a party. Unlike some of their more socially charged songs, “Oh La De Da” takes a break from heavy messages and just lets loose. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need—a song that doesn’t ask too much of you, other than to smile, sing along, and enjoy the ride. It’s a feel-good anthem that reminds us that laughter, music, and community are blessings worth celebrating. No matter your mood, this track is guaranteed to bring some sunshine.
10. “Uncloudy Day” (1956)
“Uncloudy Day” is where it all began for The Staple Singers—and it still gives chills nearly 70 years later. Released in 1956, this gospel classic introduced the world to the raw spiritual power of the group, anchored by the then-teenage Mavis Staples’ haunting, mature vocals. The song paints a beautiful picture of heaven as a place untouched by sorrow, where the sky is forever clear and bright. It’s a song of comfort, hope, and unwavering faith, deeply rooted in traditional gospel yet so captivating that even secular audiences were moved by its message. Its impact was enormous: Bob Dylan famously said that hearing “Uncloudy Day” was like “the most mysterious thing” he’d ever heard and called Mavis “a girl sounding like a grown-up woman.” The minimalist arrangement, featuring just guitar and vocal harmonies, makes the message feel even more intimate and heartfelt. “Uncloudy Day” is more than a song—it’s a spiritual experience. It marked the beginning of The Staple Singers’ incredible journey and set the tone for their blend of sacred and soulful sounds. To this day, it remains a cornerstone of American gospel music and a testament to the power of pure, heartfelt expression.
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.
