Mavis Staples - 23 June 2008: Chicago, The Hideout
Soul and gospel legend Mavis Staples’ sold out performance at Chicago’s Hideout last night brought the Civil Rights movement and all those souls who marched, sang and prayed during that critical time, to the crowded little room. A tiny venue for Staples’ big voice –- bigger than the legend herself, nearly as big as the History she sings for -– the Hideout was standing room only and filled with the reverential; some among them who lived through the ‘60s, as well.
Staples and her talented band opened with Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth”, and carried the spirit of fighting for justice through gorgeous renditions of “Eye on the Prize”, Down in Mississippi”, The Band’s “The Weight” –- to name but a few. The ghosts of the marchers stood among us, swaying, stamping, clapping.
For those who couldn’t be there in person (because you live in another city/country, or were just born too late), she was recording a live album for Anti- Records last night, and her tour schedule is going strong, strong as that fighting spirit that lives on. Amen.
Click on image thumbnails below to view the rest of the photos.
