Iconic R&B/Gospel Legend Mavis Staples Headlining Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival (Aug. 10)

It’s hard to believe, but when Mavis Staples was growing up in Chicago, her father, Pops Staples, wouldn’t let her listen to popular music. She did hear the latest hits at school, where the nascent soul star hung out with friends like Curtis Mayfield, but at home, it was strictly gospel. Just as she made a smooth transition from backup singer to lead (when her brother Pervis’ voice changed), Mavis has managed to move back and forth between gospel and popular music throughout her career without missing a beat. The iconic R&B/gospel singer headlines this year’s Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival, which also features Calexico, The Suffers, Crystal Shawanda, and The Della Kit. Deer Lake Park, Burnaby, Aug. 10 from 4 to 10 p.m.