First/Last 'The Essentials'-Mavis Staples

Photo courtesy Shore Fire Media

Mavis Staples

Pittsburgh Blues Festival

Sunday, July 22, 2102

Hartwood Acres

“All of these songs are me, but in a different way, with a different sound,” says Mavis Staples. “The phrasing, the tempos, the arrangements are different, but the messages are the same things I’ve been saying down through the years. They’re about the world today—poverty, jobs, welfare, all of that—and making it feel better through these songs.” With her bold new album, You Are Not Alone, the legendary vocalist adds a remarkable new chapter to an historic career. Staples is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner, and a National Heritage Fellowship Award recipient. VH1 named her one of the 100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll, and Rolling Stone listed her as one of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time."

One of my earliest and most fond memories of rock and roll was my father taking us kids to see "The Last Waltz" at the King's Court in Oakland when it was released in 1978. Initially, a lot of the movie slipped past my 11 year old conscience but an undeniable highlight was and still is The Staple Singers performing 'The Weight' with The Band. Beautiful, indeed. Ms. Staples headlines the last day of the blues fest tonight at Hartwood. My sincere thanks to her for taking a few minutes to participate in this edition of First/Last.

The first album you ever bought?
First albums were Sister Mahalia Jackson and Etta James.

Your last album bought?
Adele and Melanie Fiona.

Favorite album of all time?
Nina Simone, “To Love Somebody”.

Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Can't say that I've been disappointed in any albums that I've purchased.

First concert attended?
A Gospel Concert: The Soul Stirrers and The Dixie Hummingbirds.

Last concert?
 Wilco.

Favorite concert ever?
Trombone Shorty.

Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I've always loved Pittsburgh. I remember the last time we were there was an outdoor concert. It began to rain, and much to my surprise the audience stayed put, they wanted a show so we gave them one. Had a great time. Looking forward to seeing all of our Pittsburgh friends again.

Thanks, Mavis. Hopefully, the rain holds out tonight for the show. I have a feeling that if it does rain again, no one is going anywhere.