ST. PETERSBURG – Designated the “Living Blues Artist of The Year” by Living Blues magazine, Mavis Staples brings her smoky voice, combining funk, gospel and blues for a special one-night only performance at The Mahaffey Theater, Saturday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner and National Heritage Fellowship Award recipient, Staples is a testament to the power and longevity of rhythm and blues fused with gospel inspiration.
Called “one of the most underrated divas of our century” by Rolling Stone, she has brought her singular voice and contemporary messages of hope to audiences around the world for more than 60 years: First, as a member of the powerhouse family group, The Staple Singers, and then as a remarkable solo artist.
The 2011 Grammy award-winning You Are Not Alone produced by Jeff Tweedy (of Wilco fame) earned Staples her highest Billboard chart debut of her 60-year career along with critical acclaim. Included in VH1’s Greatest Women of Rock and Roll, Staples has collaborated and performed with musical giants Bob Dylan and Aretha Franklin.
“Mavis is the walking embodiment of undaunted spirit and courage. And she sounds like she’s in the prime of her life,” said Tweedy.
NPR enthused, “She turns a simple pop song into a lament that could move a listener to tears.”
Her dedication to music can only be matched by her commitment to civil rights. In 2005, the city of Chicago proclaimed June 12 as “Mavis Staples Day.” The State of Illinois followed in 2007, declaring June 19 to be “Mavis Staples Day.”
Tickets are $26.58, $37.28 and $47.98. Prices include tax and facility fees and are subject to additional convenience fees and handling charges. Tickets may be purchased online at TheMahaffey.com, or charge by phone at 727-893-7832.
Tickets may also be purchased at the Mahaffey Theater Box Office. The Box Office is open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and at least 90 minutes prior to any ticketed event.
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