R&B pioneer Pops Staples dies

Staples died at his home near Chicago after a recent fall

Roebuck "Pops" Staples, one of the pioneers of R&B, has died at his home, aged 85.

The founder of the Staples Singers, the group, called the first family of gospel, released influential songs I'll Take You There and Respect Yourself.

He performed with his son Pervis, and his daughters Mavis and Cleotha, and later Yvonne, in the group, which was given a place in the rock and roll hall of fame last year.

Staples had suffered a concussion recently in a fall near his home.

Grammy Award

His 60-year career ranged from gospel to rhythm & blues, folk, pop, and more traditional blues.

The performer won a Grammy Award as a solo artist in 1994, aged 80, for his album Father Father.

Before achieving success as a singer, Staples worked in Chicago's stockyards and steel mills.

Staples contributed in song to the battle for blacks' civil rights and was a recipient of the American National Heritage Fellowship Award from Hillary Clinton at the White House.