Candi Staton
Candi Staton, born Canzetta Maria Staton on March 13, 1940, in Hanceville, Alabama, is a renowned American singer and songwriter, celebrated for her contributions to gospel, soul, and R&B music. Raised in a rural environment, her passion for singing blossomed during her childhood in a deeply religious household, where she was influenced by gospel music from a young age.
Staton's musical career began in the 1960s, where she achieved prominence with her powerful vocals. She gained widespread acclaim with her 1970 cover of "In the Ghetto," which showcased her ability to blend gospel influences with contemporary pop sounds. This track was a substantial hit, marking a turning point in her career.
Throughout her illustrious career, Staton has produced several notable songs, including the disco anthem "Young Hearts Run Free," which solidified her status in the music industry Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations in both the Rhythm and Blues and Gospel categories, reflecting her versatility and impact on diverse musical genres.
In addition to her music achievements, Staton has been recognized for her contributions to the Christian music scene, culminating in her induction into the Christian Music Hall of Fame, highlighting her dual legacy in both secular and religious music. As of 2023, she celebrated her 83rd birthday, continuing to inspire generations with her remarkable voice and personal journey through life.
Candi Staton
Written-By – B. Bloom, N. Goldberg
3:00
A2 Darling You're All That I Had
Written-By – J. Bettis, K. Chatter
3:23
A3 Blackmail
Written-By – G. Jones, P. Sawyer
2:58
A4 In The Ghetto
Written-By – M. Davis
2:52
A5 Wanted: Lover
Written-By – L. Caston, L. Webber
2:43
B1 The Best Thing You Ever Had
Written-By – G. Jackson
2:25
B2 Lovin' You, Lovin' Me
Written-By – B. Wyrick
3:00
B3 I'll Drop Everything And Come Running
Written-By – G. Jackson, L. Chambers, M. Leaks, R. Moore
2:48
B4 You Don't Love Me No More
Written-By – C. Staton, C. Carter
2:24
B5 The Thanks I Get For Loving You
Written-By – C. Staton
Label: Fame – FAS-1800
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul,
Style: Southern Soul
Candi Staton's 1972 self-titled album, her third for Fame Records, marked a pivotal moment with its move to United Artists distribution, featuring hit Southern Soul singles like "In the Ghetto," "Lovin' You, Lovin' Me," and "Do It in the Name of Love," showcasing her powerful voice over FAME studio musicians, and becoming a cornerstone Southern Soul release celebrated for its emotional depth and classic sound, including an appreciative nod from Elvis Presley.
It was the first album released under Fame Records new distribution deal with United Artists, following Rick Hall's move.
The album included successful singles "In the Ghetto" (which Elvis praised), "Lovin' You, Lovin' Me," and "Do It in the Name of Love," along with their B-sides. Also features gems like "Blackmail," "Wanted: Lover," and "The Thanks I Get For Loving You".
A quintessential Southern Soul album, showcasing Staton's raw, emotive vocals with stellar production from Rick Hall at FAME Studios.
Considered a significant album in her catalog, bridging her gospel roots with mainstream soul success, and a vital part of the FAME Records legacy.
In essence, it's a classic, emotionally charged soul record that solidified Candi Staton as a major force in soul music.
I’m Just A Prisoner
Written-By – Carter, Inglese, Mann, Stough
2:32
A2 I'd Rather Be An Old Man's Sweetheart (Than A Young Man's Fool)
Written-By – Carter, Jackson, Moore
2:05
A3 You Don't Love Me No More
Written-By – Candi Staton, Clarence Carter
2:19
A4 Evidence
Written-By – George Jackson, Raymond Moore
2:35
A5 Sweet Feeling
Written-By – Staton, Carter, Daniel, Hall
2:45
B1 Do Your Duty
Written-By – Ronnie Shannon
2:32
B2 That's How Strong My Love Is
Written-By – Roosevelt Jamison
3:25
B3 I'm Just A Prisoner (Of Your Good Lovin')
Written-By – Eddie Harris, George Jackson
3:09
B4 Another Man's Woman, Another Woman's Man
Written-By – Penn, Jackson, Green
2:30
B5 Get It When I Want It
Written-By – George Jackson, Raymond Moore
2:25
Label: Fame – ST-4201
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1970
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
Candi Staton's 1970 album, I'm Just a Prisoner, is widely praised as a definitive, raw, and essential slice of Southern Soul, showcasing her powerful, emotive voice over deep grooves and bluesy storytelling, capturing the essence of Muscle Shoals soul with its blend of country, R&B, and gospel, despite some generic lyrical moments. Reviewers highlight tracks like the titular "I'm Just a Prisoner (Of Your Good Lovin')" and "Someone You Use," noting its consistent quality and emotional depth, making it a standout in her FAME Records era.
The album embodies the gritty, "Bama-drenched" sound of Southern Soul, a fusion of country, R&B, and blues, recorded at FAME Studios.
Staton's raw, scratchy, yet vital vocals convey deep feelings of love, longing, and despair, making listeners feel the complex emotions of being tied to an unfaithful partner.
It features the tight, funky sound of the Muscle Shoals session band, with Joe South on guitar, creating infectious grooves.
Considered a classic, especially among soul fans, with some calling it brilliant from start to finish. While some say individual songs don't always "stick," reviewers emphasize the album's overall, consistent goodness and emotional impact.
Timelessness: Even decades later, tracks sound fresh and exciting, with the album praised for its enduring quality.
Standout Tracks:- "I'm Just a Prisoner (Of Your Good Lovin')": A soulful, desperate plea showcasing Staton's full power; "Someone You Use": A bluesy, country-tinged tale of heartbreak; "I'd Rather Be An Old Man's Sweetheart (Than A Young Man's Fool)": A standout track of devotion and pain.
Overall, I'm Just a Prisoner is a deeply felt, authentically Southern Soul record, marked by Candi Staton's unparalleled vocal talent and the legendary FAME production, making it essential listening for soul music enthusiasts
Sing A Song
A2 He Is Lord 4:57
A3 To Glorify Your Name 4:45
A4 It's Not Easy 6:05
B1 Have You Tried God 4:59
B2 The First Face I Want To See 5:50
B3 God's Got It 3:59
B4 He's Coming Back 3:53
Label: Beracah Records – BRI-2001
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1986
Genre: R&B Gospel
Style: Gospel, Soul
Candi Staton's 1986 album, Sing a Song, marked a significant success in her Gospel career, blending traditional hymns with contemporary praise/worship, featuring hits like "The First Face I Want to See," earning a Grammy nomination, and solidifying her transition to faith-based music with catchy arrangements and her powerful, raw soul voice, creating timeless tracks that resonated deeply with gospel audiences and beyond.
Following her earlier R&B/Soul success, Sing a Song was a crucial album in Staton's pivot to Gospel music, establishing her strong presence in that genre.
It produced successful tracks like the uplifting "The First Face I Want to See" and the contemporary "God's Got It," contributing to strong sales for the era.
The album featured heartfelt gospel themes, combining classic hymn arrangements with modern production, including fine string, horn (Ernie Watts), and backing vocals (The McCrarys).
It received a Grammy nomination, highlighting its importance and quality within the Gospel music scene.
The blend of Staton's signature soulful, powerful vocals with genuine spiritual messages made the album feel fresh and essential.
The album was released as a vinyl LP in 1990 in the UK under the title "Glorify" and re-released on CD in the early 2000s.