The Staple Singers, an American gospel, soul, and R&B singing group, are esteemed for their indelible impact on the music world that transcended from the early 1950s through the 1970s. Founded by Roebuck "Pops" Staples, the group initially featured his children Cleotha, Pervis, Mavis, and Yvonne. Hailing from Chicago, the family began by singing in local churches, their sound deeply rooted in the African-American gospel tradition. As they grew in popularity, they didn't confine themselves to one genre, but instead, infused their music with blues, soul, and later, more direct R&B elements, which led to a broader appeal beyond the church-going community.

The Staple Singers are celebrated for their powerful and message-driven music that often commented on social issues, especially during the Civil Rights Movement, making their work a soundtrack to an era of change. They signed with Stax Records in the late 1960s and soared to new heights with hits like "I'll Take You There" and "Let's Do It Again," showcasing their ability to deliver chart-topping tunes that still reverberated with spiritual and emotional depth. Their distinctive sound is characterized by Pops Staples' Delta-inflected guitar and the extraordinary, husky voice of Mavis Staples, which became the centerpiece of their recordings. Through compilations and collections such as "Faith And Grace: A Family Journey 1953-1976," their legacy continues to be celebrated, ensuring their place in the pantheon of American music legends.

Genres

Chicago Soul

Classic Soul

Memphis Soul

Soul

Southern Soul

Related Artists

Sam Cooke

Al Green

Otis Redding

The Impressions

Aretha Franklin

Mavis Staples

The Soul Stirrers

The Blind Boys Of Alabama

Marvin Gaye

The Temptations

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

The Emotions

Latest Release

Africa '80 (Live)

The Staple Singers

Album - 11 Tracks - Released May 10, 2024