Yes, Mavis and the rest of the Staples have exerted a mighty pull in these here circles. I remember reading or hearing Levon Helm (although it could have been Robertson) saying that The Band were trying to model their vocal harmonies on those of the Staple Singers. And, suffice it to say that, in their own way, The Band certainly did succeed at paying proper homage. Plus, when they asked the Staples to perform "The Weight" for The Last Waltz movie I have to imagine it being something of a dream fulfilled. (That and playing with Muddy, of course). Lance . . .
