Mavis Staples (jcs) 2008
Mavis Staples, a ‘freedom singer’ during the Civil Rights Movement, was recognized by the Kennedy Center Honors this week, along with James Taylor, Al Pacino, Argentine pianist Martha Argerich, and The Eagles.
Staples often performed with or for Dr. Martin Luther King. I was able to see her perform in 2008 at the Green River Festival; In addition to a great set, she told stories about King, her father Pops Staples, and experiences with segregation in her childhood. The audience hung on her every word.
