The music of Mavis Staples is a beacon of hope, love and protest that has resonated with generations of listeners. On her new record, she sings about the darker times we're living through, but finds solace in the light of human connection and community.
"I'm at a point where I'm not just singing about my whole life, but also what's going on today," says Staples. "I want to tell you about war, fighting, love β the hard times that are going on in the world right now. There's some stuff about farmers losing their farms, and we have Sad and Beautiful World as the perfect title."
Staples' music has always been a powerful force for social change, and her experiences with legendary artists like Mahalia Jackson, Prince, and David Byrne have shaped her sound.
"I was really influenced by Prince," she says. "He would talk to my sister more than me, but I loved him so much. He kept everything all to himself, then it would come out like a blast." Staples has also collaborated with artists from different genres, including Hozier and the Staple Singers.
But Staples' music is not just about her personal experiences; it's also a reflection of the world around her. Her latest record features songs that tackle issues like racism, police brutality, and social injustice.
"I think the darkest time I've lived through was probably during the Civil Rights Movement," she says. "But even in those times, there were moments of hope and beauty. We had to hold on to each other, and that's what I'm doing now β holding on to love and community."
Staples' music is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope. Her voice is a powerful force for change, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists.
"I turn on a light when it's dark," she says. "I don't dwell on it. If someone needs me out there, I'll be out there."
"I'm at a point where I'm not just singing about my whole life, but also what's going on today," says Staples. "I want to tell you about war, fighting, love β the hard times that are going on in the world right now. There's some stuff about farmers losing their farms, and we have Sad and Beautiful World as the perfect title."
Staples' music has always been a powerful force for social change, and her experiences with legendary artists like Mahalia Jackson, Prince, and David Byrne have shaped her sound.
"I was really influenced by Prince," she says. "He would talk to my sister more than me, but I loved him so much. He kept everything all to himself, then it would come out like a blast." Staples has also collaborated with artists from different genres, including Hozier and the Staple Singers.
But Staples' music is not just about her personal experiences; it's also a reflection of the world around her. Her latest record features songs that tackle issues like racism, police brutality, and social injustice.
"I think the darkest time I've lived through was probably during the Civil Rights Movement," she says. "But even in those times, there were moments of hope and beauty. We had to hold on to each other, and that's what I'm doing now β holding on to love and community."
Staples' music is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope. Her voice is a powerful force for change, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists.
"I turn on a light when it's dark," she says. "I don't dwell on it. If someone needs me out there, I'll be out there."