Mavis Staples is a famous rhythm and blues, soul and gospel singer. She is best known for her work with the Staples Singers. She started her career singing at local churches and on weekly radio shows with her family group. After high school, she and the Staple Singers took their show on the road.

During the mid-1960s, the Staples Singers became influenced by their father’s close relationship with Martin Luther King, Jr. In turn, they channeled their music to reflect their spiritual beliefs and the Civil Rights Movement. In the ‘70s, the Staple Singers hit it big. They hit the “Top 40” 8 times, and had two No.1 hit singles – “I’ll Take You There” and “Let’s Do It Again.”

Mavis Staples is a “staple” of soul and gospel music and was noted for her work in 2011 when she won her first Grammy.

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Mavis Staples
Mavis Staples biography