With her stunning new live album ‘Hope At The Hideout’ released on November 3rd, Mavis Staples has dedicated the work to Barack Obama, and has rejoiced at his presidential victory.
As a singer with the Staples Family, the musician became one of the most recognizable artists involved in the civil rights movement. Mavis Staples sang at the inauguration of John F Kennedy, and knew Dr Martin Luther King personally. Hew new live album found the singer in reflective mood, and contains a prescient version of the civil rights anthem ‘We Shall Not Be Moved’.
Rejoicing in Barack Obama’s political victory, the singer writes:
“To come up in a time when there was slavery, racism, the KKK, and Jim Crow, I’m just so grateful to still be here to enjoy this historical time in our lives. It is so surreal, so completely overwhelming.
This young black man has inspired and brought the country together. There’s something about him that makes me feel he is the chosen one. There’s something about his leadership that makes people feel calm and safe. He has inspired hopes and dreams of all people – black, white, brown or yellow. Doctor King and Pops I just know are so happy. “The Dream” is alive.”
Mavis Staples released her new live ‘Mavis Staples Live: Hope At The Hideout’ on November 3rd.
Click here to read a fascinating interview with this musical legend!
