Music Legend Mavis Staples to Celebrate 85th Birthday with Star-Studded Concert Featuring Chris Stapleton, Hozier, & More

Mavis Staples, the iconic figure in soul, gospel, and R&B music, is set to celebrate her 85th birthday in grand style with a dazzling concert featuring an array of acclaimed artists. The milestone event, slated for April 18 at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Staples’ enduring influence on the music industry and her impactful legacy as a civil rights activist.

With a career spanning decades, Staples has left an indelible mark on the world of music, inspiring countless artists across genres. From her soul-stirring vocals to her unwavering commitment to social justice, Staples’ influence resonates far and wide, earning her a well-deserved reputation as a true legend.

The lineup for Staples’ birthday extravaganza reads like a who’s who of musical talent, with an impressive roster of performers paying tribute to the iconic singer. Grammy-winning artist Chris Stapleton, known for his soulful blend of country and rock, will take the stage alongside the Grammy-nominated Black Pumas, renowned singer-songwriter Grace Potter, and dynamic duo The War and Treaty. Joining them are blues maestro Keb’ Mo’ and, of course, the birthday honoree herself, Mavis Staples.

But the star power doesn’t stop there. The concert will also feature performances by Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, acclaimed musician Jackson Browne, Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy, the legendary Michael McDonald, soulful crooner Nathaniel Rateliff, the incomparable Norah Jones, pedal steel virtuoso Robert Randolph, and the iconic Taj Mahal. And as anticipation builds for the celebration, more artists are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Staples’ impact on the music world extends far beyond her own recordings. She has served as a beacon of inspiration for generations of artists, including Hozier, who collaborated with her on the powerful anthem “Nina Cried Power.” The song, a tribute to artist-activists of the Civil Rights Movement, underscores Staples’ enduring relevance and influence in today’s cultural landscape.

Reflecting on his collaboration with Staples, Hozier remarked, “When writing [‘Nina Cried Power’], it was important to me to have Mavis involved. She was kind of there at the beginning of the song… I knew it needed Mavis.”

As Staples prepares to mark her 85th trip around the sun, her contributions to blues, soul, gospel, and R&B music are being celebrated in earnest. With three Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement honor as part of the Staples Singers, and inductions into both the Rock and Roll and Blues Halls of Fame, Staples’ accolades are a testament to her enduring impact on the world of music.

In addition to her musical achievements, Staples has been recognized for her activism and advocacy work, receiving prestigious honors such as the National Arts Awards Lifetime Achievement Award and a Kennedy Center Honor. As she gears up for this milestone birthday celebration, Staples’ legacy as a pioneering artist and fearless advocate for social change continues to shine brightly, inspiring audiences around the globe.