EntertainmentAmerican1935 – present

Cleotha Staples

Gospel and soul singer, Staples Singers member

Biography

Cleotha Staples is an American soul and gospel singer born into the iconic Staples Singers family, one of the most influential gospel groups in American music history. Her father, Roebuck 'Pops' Staples, founded the group, and Cleotha performed alongside her famous siblings Mavis, Yvonne, and Pervis. The Staples Singers became known for their powerful harmonies, socially conscious lyrics, and ability to bridge gospel, soul, and pop music throughout the 1960s and beyond. While her sister Mavis became the most publicly prominent member, Cleotha's rich contralto voice provided essential depth and harmonic complexity to the group's sound. Beyond her work with the family ensemble, Cleotha has maintained a solo career, performing gospel and soul music and contributing to the broader African American musical legacy. Her work represents the continuation of a family tradition that used music as a vehicle for spiritual expression and social justice.

The Name Cleotha

Cleotha is a rare African American name with particular significance in the context of the Staples family's contribution to American music and culture, representing generational musical excellence.

Quick Facts

Cleotha

Greek origin

“An uncommon elaboration of Cleota, Cleotha adds a Greek suffix creating a fuller, more majestic feel while maintaining the 'glory' etymology at its core. This rare spelling suggests creativity from parents who wanted classical grounding with a more personalized, distinctive form.”