Visionary Tennessee-born singer-songwriter Valerie June recorded these songs at the Stax Music Academy with students and graduates. “High Note,” a euphoric slice of Memphis soul, was originally written by June for Mavis Staples, who not only recorded the song but also titled her album after it. “Friendship” is a luminous pop-soul gem written by Pops Staples and features Stax soul legend Carla Thomas.

Both songs are a thank you to Mavis Staples and a love note for her 85 years with us so far, as Mavis celebrates her 85th birthday this year. It also marks the second time June and Thomas have worked together. The pioneering soul star appeared on the Grammy-nominated "Call Me A Fool," a track from June’s celebrated 2022 LP, The Moon And Stars: Prescriptions For Dreamers.