Mavis Staples, the Grammy Award-winning phenom and legendary singer, is introduced to a new generation in HBO’s “MAVIS!” Director Jessica Edwards spins a heartwarming story that longtime fans will enjoy.
“MAVIS!” tells the story of the Staples’ family’s humble beginnings and how they built a strong foundation and musical legacy under the leadership of the clan’s patriarch, Pops Staples.
The Staples Singers, and lead singer Mavis, captivated audiences with their gospel-infused, bluesy sound and their songs continue to resonate with listeners.
Mavis and Pops, through the lens of Jessica Edwards, share the details of their involvement with Martin Luther King Jr. and Jesse Jackson and the Civil Rights Movement. It could be argued that their music was the soundtrack for the Movement, delivering sustenance and support to those on the front lines.
The humility showcased in this film is moving. The Staples were not only entertainers, they were at their core a loving, strong family, and that strength and mutual love propelled them to the pinnacle of music. Mavis has been anointing audiences with her angelic voice for more than 60 years, and with her latest album, Livin’ on A High Note, listeners will be able to continue to enjoy her high notes.
Mavis’ is not a sad story. The absence of things like children and a husband did not hold her back; instead, the fire of her and her family and her sister, Yvonne, continuing the bond in the absence of Pops is a testament to the power of a family bound by love and music.
“MAVIS!” tells the story of a bold and beautiful woman with a powerhouse voice that will take you there, again and again.
This phenomenal HBO documentary is one of the best captured moments of time culture and pervasive soul of such an iconic spirit Mavis Staples congratulations.
Celebrating the extraordinary gospel and soul music legend and civil rights icon who rose to fame as lead singer of the legendary family group The Staple Singers, MAVIS! debuts Monday, Feb. 29, exclusively on HBO. Coinciding with the film’s HBO debut, Mavis’ new album, Livin’ on a High Note, was released by ANTI- on Feb. 19.
