Mavis Staples is an American singer and civil rights activist who has been performing for over six decades. Known for her powerful voice and soulful style, she has recorded numerous classic songs that have become staples in the soul, funk, and gospel genres. From her early work with The Staple Singers to her solo career, Staples has been a vocal advocate for social justice, using her music to inspire change and fight for equality.
The top 10 best Mavis Staples songs of all time showcase her incredible range and talent as a singer, as well as her enduring impact on the music world. From the uplifting and joyful “I’ll Take You There” to the poignant and introspective “This World”, each song tells a unique story and showcases Staples’ ability to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level. Staples’ music has also been influential in shaping the course of American music history, from her early collaborations with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to her contemporary work with artists like Prince and Arcade Fire. Whether she is singing soul, funk, or gospel, Staples’ voice is a testament to the power of music to inspire change and uplift the human spirit.
1. “I’ll Take You There”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY3vgBzgYn4
“I’ll Take You There” is a soul and gospel song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1972 as part of The Staple Singers’ album “Be Altitude: Respect Yourself”. The song features a funky and upbeat melody with a mix of horns, guitar, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “I’ll Take You There” describe a better world and the power of community to achieve it. Staples sings about how we can lift each other up and find hope in the face of adversity. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “I’ll take you there” as a promise of support and encouragement.
The song’s production is energetic, featuring a fun and lively sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “I’ll Take You There” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and inspiring performance.
“I’ll Take You There” was praised by critics for its infectious rhythm and Staples’ soulful interpretation. It was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most iconic and enduring hits.
Overall, “I’ll Take You There” is a soul and gospel classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of hope and community resonated with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
2. “Let’s Do It Again”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIS4P8xbPtg
“Let’s Do It Again” is a soul and funk song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1975 as part of The Staple Singers’ album of the same name. The song features a smooth and seductive melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “Let’s Do It Again” describe the joy and excitement of falling in love. Staples sings about how love can bring people together and make the world seem brighter. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “Let’s do it again” as a declaration of her desire to experience love once more.
The song’s production is sensual, featuring a slow and groovy sound that showcases Staples’ sultry vocals. The music video for “Let’s Do It Again” is also notable, featuring Staples’ charismatic and captivating performance.
“Let’s Do It Again” was praised by critics for its smooth groove and Staples’ powerful vocals. It was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most popular and enduring hits.
Overall, “Let’s Do It Again” is a soul and funk classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its romantic lyrics and seductive melody make it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
3. “Respect Yourself”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InYaB16xEd0
“Respect Yourself” is a soul and gospel song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1971 as part of The Staple Singers’ album of the same name. The song features a funky and upbeat melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “Respect Yourself” promote self-respect and dignity in the face of adversity. Staples sings about how important it is to value oneself and to treat others with respect. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “Respect yourself” as a reminder of the importance of self-worth.
The song’s production is energetic, featuring a fun and lively sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “Respect Yourself” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and inspiring performance.
“Respect Yourself” was praised by critics for its catchy rhythm and positive message. It was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most iconic and enduring hits.
Overall, “Respect Yourself” is a soul and gospel classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of self-respect and dignity resonated with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
4. “City in the Sky”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuKXFDI8Iu0
“City in the Sky” is a soul and funk song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1973 as part of The Staple Singers’ album “Be What You Are”. The song features an upbeat and groovy melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “City in the Sky” describe a place of peace and unity, where people can come together and live in harmony. Staples sings about the power of imagination and the hope that comes with dreaming of a better world. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “City in the sky” as a celebration of the possibility of a brighter future.
The song’s production is energetic, featuring a lively and upbeat sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “City in the Sky” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and inspiring performance.
“City in the Sky” was praised by critics for its catchy rhythm and uplifting message. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most popular and enduring hits.
Overall, “City in the Sky” is a soul and funk classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of hope and unity continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
5. “Slippery People”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4qUyTPwe5U
“Slippery People” is a soul and funk song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1984 as part of the Talking Heads’ album “Speaking in Tongues”. The song features a lively and upbeat melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “Slippery People” describe the uncertainty and deception that can come with human interactions. Staples sings about how people can be manipulative and dishonest, and how we must be careful to protect ourselves from those who would take advantage of us. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “What about me?” as a plea for recognition and understanding.
The song’s production is dynamic, featuring a fun and energetic sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “Slippery People” is also notable, featuring a performance by the Talking Heads with Staples as a guest vocalist.
“Slippery People” was praised by critics for its catchy rhythm and Staples’ dynamic contribution. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most memorable and enduring collaborations.
Overall, “Slippery People” is a soul and funk classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a collaborator and performer. Its message of caution and self-protection is a testament to the enduring relevance of Staples’ music and message.
6. “If You’re Ready (Come Go With Me)”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pUSe3zmd_Y
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a soul and funk song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1973 as part of The Staple Singers’ album “Be What You Are”. The song features an upbeat and groovy melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” invite listeners to join in a celebration of love and togetherness. Staples sings about the power of love to bring people together and create a better world. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “If you’re ready, come go with me” as an invitation to embrace love and joy.
The song’s production is energetic, featuring a lively and upbeat sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and inspiring performance.
“If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” was praised by critics for its catchy rhythm and positive message. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of Staples’ most beloved and enduring hits.
Overall, “If You’re Ready (Come Go with Me)” is a soul and funk classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of love and togetherness continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
7. “Touch A Hand, Make A Friend”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY1mCyl2V1c
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is a soul and gospel song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1974 as part of The Staple Singers’ album “City in the Sky”. The song features a powerful and uplifting melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” promote the power of human connection and the importance of kindness and empathy. Staples sings about how a simple act of friendship can make a difference in someone’s life, and how we must all work together to create a better world. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “Touch a hand, make a friend” as a reminder of the importance of reaching out to others.
The song’s production is soulful, featuring a powerful and inspiring sound that showcases Staples’ passionate vocals. The music video for “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and charismatic performance.
“Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” was praised by critics for its uplifting message and powerful delivery. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of Staples’ most beloved and enduring hits.
Overall, “Touch a Hand, Make a Friend” is a soul and gospel classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of kindness and empathy continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
8. “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HA9BKNUmV2c
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” is a soul and funk song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1971 as part of The Staple Singers’ album “The Staple Swingers”. The song features a lively and upbeat melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” celebrate the joy and pleasure of living life to the fullest. Staples sings about how letting go and having fun can bring happiness and fulfillment. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “Sha-na-na-na-na, sha-na-na-na-na-na” as a call to let loose and enjoy life.
The song’s production is dynamic, featuring a fun and energetic sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and captivating performance.
“Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” was praised by critics for its catchy rhythm and positive message. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most popular and enduring hits.
Overall, “Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)” is a soul and funk classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of joy and celebration continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
9. “Oh La De Da”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMe3scLEz_c
“Oh La De Da” is a soul and funk song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 1971 as part of The Staple Singers’ album “The Staple Swingers”. The song features a lively and upbeat melody with a mix of guitar, horns, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “Oh La De Da” celebrate the simple joys of life and the importance of living in the moment. Staples sings about how we must embrace life and all of its ups and downs. The chorus features a memorable hook, with Staples repeating the line “Oh la de da” as a reminder of the joy and beauty of life.
The song’s production is energetic, featuring a fun and lively sound that showcases Staples’ powerful vocals. The music video for “Oh La De Da” is also notable, featuring Staples’ dynamic and inspiring performance.
“Oh La De Da” was praised by critics for its catchy rhythm and uplifting message. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the US Billboard Pop chart and becoming one of Staples’ most popular and enduring hits.
Overall, “Oh La De Da” is a soul and funk classic that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and performer. Its message of embracing life and living in the moment continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.
10. “This World”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIf8J1KVcY8
“This World” is a soulful and contemplative song by American singer Mavis Staples, originally released in 2007 as part of her album “We’ll Never Turn Back”. The song features a slow and haunting melody with a mix of guitar, piano, and percussion elements.
The lyrics of “This World” express Staples’ concern and sadness about the state of the world and the suffering of marginalized communities. She sings about the need for change and the importance of fighting for justice and equality. The chorus features a powerful refrain, with Staples repeating the line “This world is not my home, I’m just a-passin’ through” as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the urgency of our struggles.
The song’s production is understated, featuring a stripped-down and intimate sound that showcases Staples’ emotive vocals. The music video for “This World” is also notable, featuring powerful images of social and political movements throughout history.
“This World” was praised by critics for its emotional depth and social relevance. It is a testament to Staples’ ongoing commitment to social justice and the power of music to inspire change.
Overall, “This World” is a soulful and poignant song that showcases Mavis Staples’ talent as a singer and activist. Its message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in Staples’ career.