Mavis Staples is an R&B and Gospel singer, civil rights activist, and hero to many. The octogenarian kicked off her long and storied career when she was just a teenager in the 1940s while performing in churches with her family band, The Staple Singers. Fast-forward to now, and Staples has multiple Grammy Awards, and The Staple Singers have been inducted into the Rock and Roll and the Gospel Halls of Fame. Today, Mavis Staples hits another milestone — celebrating her 85th birthday!

From performing at the March on Washington and traveling with The Staple Singers to perform at Dr. King’s speeches, to her solo work and slew of collaborations, let’s give Ms. Staples her flowers — and birthday well wishes — with music!

So for today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs from or featuring Mavis Staples would you like to hear?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played
The Staple Singers – This May Be The Last Time
The Staple Singers – The Weight
The Staple Singers - We'll Get Over
The Staple Singers – Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom)
Mavis Staples – 99 and a 1/2
Mavis Staples – You're Not Alone
Mavis Staples – High Note
Mavis Staples – Change
Mavis Staples – All In It Together (bonus)