Candi Staton, known professionally as "Candi", is an American soul and gospel singer-songwriter. Starting her career in the 1950s, she rose to fame in the 1970s with hit songs like "Young Hearts Run Free" and "In the Ghetto". Candi's music is characterized by her strong, warm vocals and a blend of gospel roots with soul and R&B influences. She's notable for her resilience and adaptability in the music industry, transitioning from soul to disco, gospel, and house music, ultimately contributing significantly to the evolution of American pop music.