Mavis Staples, the iconic Chicago R&B and gospel singer, has recently released a heartfelt cover of Frank Ocean’s “Godspeed.” This new rendition, produced by Brad Cook, presents a beautiful blend of Staples’ distinctive soulful voice with spoken word interludes from the talented Kara Jackson. Fans of both artists will find much to appreciate in this fresh interpretation.
In a press release, Staples expressed her deep admiration for Frank Ocean, recounting her first encounter with his music through his acclaimed album Channel Orange. She described being captivated by Ocean’s writing and the raw soulfulness of his voice. When discussing Blonde, the album that features “Godspeed,” she shared her emotional connection to one of its opening lines, “I will always love you,” noting how it resonates with her every time she hears or sings it. For Staples, taking on such a poignant song was both an honor and a source of nervousness, as she aimed to do justice to Ocean’s original words.
In addition to releasing this new cover, Mavis Staples has also announced an extensive tour that will span both North America and Europe. The tour will include festival appearances, offering fans a unique opportunity to experience her soulful performances live. Among the scheduled shows, notable stops include the Ottawa Jazz Festival, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and the Winnipeg Folk Festival.
Staples is no stranger to musical collaborations. Her most recent album, Carry Me Home, released in 2022 alongside Levon Helm, showcases her talent in blending gospel, R&B, and rock. This collaboration came after she appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert alongside Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy to perform a powerful rendition of the Staple Singers’ “Freedom Highway,” amidst the backdrop of the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
The tour begins on June 21 in Ottawa, Ontario, and will carry Staples through various cities including Toronto, Montreal, Knoxville, and Cincinnati before heading to Europe with stops like Notodden in Norway and Utrecht in the Netherlands. This tour symbolizes not only her enduring legacy but also the deep connection she shares with her audience through her music.
As Staples continues to share her artistry with the world, her cover of “Godspeed” serves as a reminder of the importance of music in connecting people across generations. Staples herself embodies that spirit of connection, bridging the gaps between genres and styles, and reminding us all of the power of love and resilience found within lyrical storytelling.
For those inspired by this latest release or her upcoming performances, be sure to stay updated with Mavis Staples’ tour dates and immerse yourself in her soul-stirring music. Whether you’re revisiting her past records or discovering her work for the first time, Staples continues to prove that great music can transcend time and resonate deeply with the human experience.
The cover of "Godspeed" and the announcement of her tour invites fans and new listeners alike to celebrate the richness of music and its ability to evoke deep emotions. Mavis Staples remains a vital force in the music world, constantly reminding us of the beauty found in authentic expression and the enduring nature of love through song.
