If All I Was Was Black
Mavis Staples · 2017
37 min · 10 tracks · R&B · soul
A deeply resonant blend of soul, blues, and gospel reflecting on identity and resilience.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments resilient themes of identity uplifting anthems for togetherness
- Context
- In 2017, Mavis Staples released 'If All I Was Was Black' as her first studio album since the acclaimed 'One True Vine' (2013). This album marks a continuation of her artistic evolution, featuring collaborations with producer Jeff Tweedy, who has been instrumental in revitalizing her sound. Staples was already an established figure in music, but this release further cemented her role as a voice of social commentary.
- If you like
- R&B, soul
If All I Was Was Black is an album by Mavis Staples, released in 2017. A deeply resonant blend of soul, blues, and gospel reflecting on identity and resilience. The album received widespread critical acclaim, earning a spot on numerous year-end lists and securing a Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album. Its poignant exploration of race relations in America was particularly relevant in the context of contemporary social movements, positioning Staples as a vital cultural commentator. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does If All I Was Was Black sound like?
A deeply resonant blend of soul, blues, and gospel reflecting on identity and resilience. Rooted in R&B and soul.
What makes If All I Was Was Black by Mavis Staples notable?
The album received widespread critical acclaim, earning a spot on numerous year-end lists and securing a Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album. Its poignant exploration of race relations in America was particularly relevant in the context of contemporary social movements, positioning Staples as a vital cultural commentator. In 2017, Mavis Staples released 'If All I Was Was Black' as her first studio album since the acclaimed 'One True Vine' (2013). This album marks a continuation of her artistic evolution, featuring collaborations with producer Jeff Tweedy, who has been instrumental in revitalizing her sound. Staples was already an established figure in music, but this release further cemented her role as a voice of social commentary.
Who is If All I Was Was Black for?
If All I Was Was Black works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, resilient themes of identity and uplifting anthems for togetherness.
How many songs are on If All I Was Was Black?
If All I Was Was Black has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Little Bit 4:11
- 2 If All I Was Was Black Standout 4:16
- 3 Who Told You That Standout 3:03
- 4 Ain’t No Doubt About It 3:36
- 5 Peaceful Dream 3:38
- 6 No Time for Crying 5:01
- 7 Build a Bridge 3:56
- 8 We Go High Standout 3:44
- 9 Try Harder 4:11
- 10 All Over Again 2:02
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