American singer Mavis Staples was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 10, 1939.

Her initial recordings were as a member of her family group, the Staple Singers.

Led by her father Roebuck "Pops" Staples the Staple Singers were major artists in gospel and soul music from 1957 to 1969.

Commencing releasing albums as a solo artist in 1969, Mavis Staples has released 13 studio albums, two live albums, three compilations, one soundtrack, one EP, and 51 singles over a career spanning five decades.