A vibrant, painterly illustration of Mavis Staples, a Black woman with short, curly hair, singing passionately into a microphone. She is wearing a dark blue, flowing dress and a long necklace. Her eyes are closed in emotion as she performs against a dramatic background of swirling blues, purples, oranges, and yellows, suggesting a mix of melancholy and hope. The album title "Sad and Beautiful World" and artist name "MAVIS STAPLES" are subtly integrated into the top left of the image in elegant script.

Legendary Voice, New Chapter: Mavis Staples’ Sad and Beautiful World Arrives November 7

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At 86 years old, gospel and soul legend Mavis Staples is preparing to release her 14th solo album, Sad and Beautiful World, on November 7, 2025, via Anti-Records—unveiling powerful artistry that bridges generations.

 

A Journey Through Seven Decades of the American Songbook

Mavis Staples’ Sad and Beautiful World Arrives November 7
Mavis Staples’ Sad and Beautiful – YouTube

Produced by Brad Cook, the album blends original compositions with reimagined classics by artists like Tom Waits, Gil­lian Welch & David Rawlings, Frank Ocean, Leonard Cohen, Curtis Mayfield, and more—creating a sweeping musical tapestry nearly as vast as Staples’ own career.

 

A Stellar Cast of Collaborators

Mavis isn’t creating this alone—she’s joined by a star-studded ensemble including Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Tweedy, Derek Trucks, Katie Crutchfield, MJ Lenderman, and Justin Vernon. Their appearances underscore a communal celebration of soul and resilience.

 

Lead Single: A Revelatory Cover of “Beautiful Strangers”

To launch the era, Staples shared her stirring rendition of Kevin Morby’s “Beautiful Strangers”, delivering a version so emotionally rich that Morby himself called it “the greatest moment and highest honor of my career”. He added, “Her version is better.” Previous to that, the album rollout included her rendition of Frank Ocean’s “Godspeed,” which now finds its place among the thoughtfully curated tracklist.

 

Preview the Track List

Track Title
1 Chicago
2 Beautiful Strangers
3 Sad and Beautiful World
4 Human Mind
5 Hard Times
6 Godspeed
7 We Got to Have Peace
8 Anthem
9 Satisfied Mind
10 Everybody Needs Love

 

Why This Album Matters

A vibrant, painterly illustration of Mavis Staples, a Black woman with short, curly hair, singing passionately into a microphone. She is wearing a dark blue, flowing dress and a long necklace. Her eyes are closed in emotion as she performs against a dramatic background of swirling blues, purples, oranges, and yellows, suggesting a mix of melancholy and hope. The album title "Sad and Beautiful World" and artist name "MAVIS STAPLES" are subtly integrated into the top left of the image in elegant script.
Celebrate the iconic voice of Mavis Staples as she unveils her latest chapter, “Sad and Beautiful World.” Experience soulful melodies and powerful messages from a true legend. ai image

This release embodies enduring artistry and spiritual resilience. Staples delivers vulnerability and timeless warmth, offering a musical embrace in uncertain times. It’s not just another album—it’s a powerful affirmation of hope, community, and grace.

 

Final Thoughts

Mavis Staples’ Sad and Beautiful World marks a bold new chapter—one that weaves tradition with reinvention, honoring her legacy while opening new avenues of emotional and musical connection.

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