On July 22, 2025, the Longworth-Anderson Series at Memorial Hall will welcome back one of America’s most celebrated musical icons: Mavis Staples. The Grammy-winning vocalist, Civil Rights icon, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee returns to Cincinnati for a legendary performance that promises to be both soul-stirring and unforgettable.

At 84, Staples continues to tour and record with a spirit that defies expectation. Her unmistakable voice—gritty, warm, and powerful—still carries the weight of a lifetime spent singing for justice, joy, and connection. From her early days with The Staple Singers to her critically acclaimed solo career, Staples has stood at the crossroads of gospel, soul, and protest music, giving voice to the struggles and hopes of multiple generations.

This is not her first time gracing the Memorial Hall stage. Staples last performed in Cincinnati as part of the Longworth-Anderson Series in April 2018.

Her return this summer is more than just an encore. It’s a cultural reminder for Cincinnati—a city with its own deep roots in Black musical tradition and activism. It’s also a continuation of the Longworth-Anderson Series’ mission to present artists whose work pushes boundaries and resonates far beyond the stage.

Staples’ influence is boundless. With hits like “I’ll Take You There,” “Respect Yourself,” and “Freedom Highway,” her music has long been a rallying cry for progress. In recent years, she has recorded with artists like Jeff Tweedy, Ben Harper, and Hozier, bringing her message and sound to new generations. While the world has changed dramatically since she first began performing in the 1950s, her commitment to truth, joy, and resistance through music has never wavered.

Her upcoming show at Memorial Hall offers Cincinnati audiences a rare opportunity to witness that legacy in real time. Her powerful message transcends generations, and continues to shape the future.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her work for the first time, July 22 is your chance to hear a voice that helped shape American history—and still refuses to be silenced.

Join us for an unforgettable night with Mavis Staples—a voice of the past, the present, and the future! Tickets available now at www.memorialhallotr.com.

—Kyle Fugate