Roebuck "Pops" Staples was an influential American musician and songwriter, best known as the patriarch of the Staples Singers. Born on December 28, 1914, in Winona, Mississippi, he played a significant role in shaping the sound of gospel and soul music. His deep, resonant voice and guitar skills contributed to the group's success during the 1960s and 1970s. Pops Staples was also a civil rights activist, using his music to address social issues. The Staples Singers gained fame with hits like "I'll Take You There" and "Respect Yourself," blending gospel with popular music. He passed away on December 19, 2000, leaving a lasting legacy.