(July 17, 2018) There are only a handful of voices that simply stand out for their unique vocal presence, especially those who have shared their gift for nearly an entire lifetime. Candi Staton’s punctuated phrasing and husky alto capped by that soulful aftertaste have felt quite comfortable navigating several genres, including country, southern soul, dance and gospel, throughout her remarkable journey. Even before "In The Ghetto," "Young Hearts Run Free," "You Got The Love" and other top charting R&B and pop singles that became her musical bread and butter, Candi Staton joined her sister Maggie and a third vocalist as the Jewell Gospel Trio, which traveled with Mahalia Jackson and others starting in the mid-fifties.
(July 17, 2018) There are only a handful of voices that simply stand out for their unique vocal presence, especially those who have shared their gift for nearly an entire lifetime. Candi Staton’s punctuated phrasing and husky alto capped by that soulful aftertaste have felt quite comfortable navigating several genres, including country, southern soul, dance and gospel, throughout her remarkable journey. Even before "In The Ghetto," "Young Hearts Run Free," "You Got The Love" and other top charting R&B and pop singles that became her musical bread and butter, Candi Staton joined her sister Maggie and a third vocalist as the Jewell Gospel Trio, which traveled with Mahalia Jackson and others starting in the mid-fifties.
What skyrocketed Staton to solo heights was her longtime association with Muscle Shoals iconic producer Rick Hall, followed recently by her collaborations with Mark Nevers from the band Lambchop. No wonder she has hung tough with a rare career longevity that very few artists can truly achieve.
Once again, Staton and Nevers join musical forces for the upcoming project and her 30th CD, Unstoppable. Our First Listen focus is on the upbeat, no-nonsense anthem, "Confidence," an empowerment song that promotes maximum self-esteem: "I walk like it, I talk like it, I act like it, I move like it, I fight like it...". Staton’s sons Marcel Williams and Marcus Williams hold down the rhythm section with a thumping bass guitar and drums respectively, accentuating Staton's vocal roars and an infectious funky strut that nails the song's ultimate purpose and mood. And that uncompromising, confident passion from Staton keeps moving full steam, even after sixty-five years of living the musical dream.
By Peggy Oliver
Candi Staton - "Confidence"