Candi Staton

Many will probably consider Candi Staton to be the First Lady of 70s disco, recalling her megahit Young Hearts Run Free. But in actual fact it is not here her dulcet voice has its roots.

If you’re born in the south with a divine voice, the way to the gospel choir is short, which is how Staton’s long career began. It was here and with R&B that she found success before disco drew her in. If there’s such a thing as quality disco, then it might be fair to say she delivered it, with countless catchy hits.

Success and a troubled life do not necessarily go hand in hand and after several tough years, she returned to her gospel roots with greater life experience to sturdy her musical foundation. She has a warm voice with much to communicate and has recently found a niche in what might be dubbed country inspired soul. Her latest release confirms she improves with age, where fantastic heartfelt interpretations of R&B garnished with a warm southern country breeze sanction Staton as a true First Lady.

Translation by Erik Forster