70. ‘His Hands’ by Candi Staton (2006)

I’d really like to see this woman open a can of whoopass on Florence and the Machine.

I firmly believe that Candi Staton has one of the most miraculous voices going. Her emotional fluency is up there with Otis and Nina’s, and this Will Oldham-penned waltz rivals the best of their work. Oldham gives Candi plenty to work with, as the song details sexual consummation, domestic abuse and, finally, the redemptive powers of faith in God. That’s quite the platter for a soul singer! Staton sings a woman’s whole life, and the stately, spare musical arrangement has the sense to just let her work her stuff.

 

Bonus points: POWEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRR!!!!!