The Staple Singers

Iconic Gospel and Soul Music Group

The Staple Singers were an American gospel, soul, and R&B singing group formed in 1948 by Roebuck "Pops" Staples with his children Cleotha, Pervis, and Mavis. They are best known for their hits during the 1970s and their music that conveyed messages of social and racial equality. The group's sound was marked by Pops's bluesy guitar playing and the distinctively rich, expressive vocals of Mavis Staples. Their career spanned several decades, during which they achieved significant success with songs like "I'll Take You There" and "Respect Yourself." The Staple Singers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, and their contribution to music has left a lasting legacy on both gospel and secular music genres.