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Mahalia
Jackson

1997

Mavis Staples

Her voice hit audiences with the force of a hurricane. Mahalia Jackson’s passionate contralto brought sensuality and forceful expression to gospel music. Born in New Orleans, she inherited the city’s legacy of musical excellence and passed it on for generations to come.

Impact

She sang for kings and queens and presidents.

Mavis Staples

1997 Hall of Fame Essay

Atop the gospel mountain, Mahalia Jackson’s stature is such that her neighboring titans (Thomas A. Dorsey excepted) are diminished by comparison...

Written By David McGee

sealed with a signature

This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.

Mahalia Jackson

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