There are not many people in the music world (or any other world, for that matter) who have what it takes to keep a guy like Bob Dylan in line. Mavis Staples is one of those people.
The key to her power over the great Bob Dylan appears to be the fact that she knew him back in the day, when her name was more impressive than his. It’s a long and fruitful relationship they share, one that apparently included a marriage proposal from Dylan to Staples.
Holger Petersen, host of CBC radio’s Saturday Night Blues, interviewed Staples at the Vancouver Island music festival in 2008. Staples shared some wonderful stories about the early days of her family group, the Staples Singers. The group’s music-making dates back to the ’50s and includes cross-over hits in gospel, soul and R&B, like “I’ll Take You There,” “Respect Yourself,” and “Let’s Do It Again.” As well, the Staple Singers’ work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has placed them firmly in the pantheon of the 20th century.
AUDIOIn Peterson’s interview, done in front of a live festival audience, Staples shares some hilarious stories about the famed Bob Dylan.
Related Links:
Bob Dylan's pre-war blues
Daniel Lanois discusses Bob Dylan's Oh Mercy
Saturday Night Blues