Stevie Wonder is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer who rose to fame in the 1960s with his unique blend of soul, funk, and R&B. Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins in Michigan in 1950, he was blind from birth but showed an early aptitude for music, mastering a variety of instruments including the piano, harmonica, and drums.
Wonder’s breakthrough came in 1963 with the release of his single “Fingertips,” which topped the charts and earned him his first Grammy Award at the age of just 13. He went on to release a string of hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including “Superstition,” “I Wish,” and “Sir Duke.”
In addition to his success as a musician, Wonder has also been a prominent activist for social justice and political causes. He has been a vocal supporter of the Civil Rights Movement and has used his platform to raise awareness of issues such as poverty, racism, and police brutality.
Over the course of his career, Wonder has won 25 Grammy Awards and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His music has had a lasting impact on the industry and continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.
1. Ebony and Ivory (1982)
“Ebony and Ivory” is a song by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder, released in 1982. The song’s lyrics and melody promote racial harmony and the idea that people of different races can coexist and thrive together. The song features a catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and the contrasting vocals of McCartney and Wonder. The song’s message and popularity led to it becoming an anthem for racial harmony, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. “Ebony and Ivory” is a testament to the power of music to promote positive social change and inspire unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds.
2. Uptight (Everything’s Alright) (1965)
“Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” is a classic Motown hit from 1965, recorded by Stevie Wonder at the age of 15. The song features Wonder’s youthful energy and exuberance, as well as a tight horn section and catchy rhythm that make it an instant dancefloor favorite. The lyrics describe a man who’s been down on his luck but is determined to bounce back and make things right, and the song’s positive message and upbeat tempo have made it a beloved classic of the Motown era. “Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” is a testament to the enduring power of soul and R&B music to uplift and inspire listeners of all ages.
3. Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours (1970)
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” is a classic soul song written by Stevie Wonder and released in 1970. The song features a driving beat, infectious melody, and powerful vocals, and quickly became a hit for Wonder, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics speak of the singer’s commitment to his lover, declaring that he is “yours, yours, yours” and that he is “signed, sealed, delivered” in his devotion. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” remains one of Wonder’s most popular and recognizable songs, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
4. You Haven’t Done Nothin’ (1974)
“You Haven’t Done Nothin'” is a politically charged funk song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1974. The song’s lyrics address the corruption and hypocrisy of the United States government and the need for social justice and equality. The song features a catchy bassline, driving rhythm, and powerful horns, making it a quintessential example of funk music. The song’s message and popularity led to it becoming a protest anthem for the civil rights movement and the fight against systemic racism. “You Haven’t Done Nothin'” is a powerful call to action and a reminder of the importance of standing up for justice and equality.
5. Sir Duke (1977)
“Sir Duke” is a classic funk track from Stevie Wonder’s 1977 album “Songs in the Key of Life”. The song is a tribute to Duke Ellington, one of the most important figures in jazz history, and features a driving horn section and catchy chorus that make it an instant classic. The lyrics celebrate the joy and power of music to bring people together, and the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove have made it a staple of dancefloors and radio stations around the world. “Sir Duke” is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s musical genius and his ability to blend different genres to create a sound that’s both unique and universally appealing.
6. You Are the Sunshine of My Life (1973)
“You Are the Sunshine of My Life” is a classic love song written and performed by Stevie Wonder, released in 1973. The song is characterized by its uplifting melody, catchy lyrics, and the use of a variety of instruments including horns, strings, and keyboards. The lyrics express the singer’s love and appreciation for his partner, declaring that they are the “sunshine of [his] life” and that he can’t imagine living without them. The song was a commercial and critical success for Wonder, winning him a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. It remains a beloved classic to this day.
7. Superstition (1972)
“Superstition” is a classic funk and soul track from Stevie Wonder’s 1972 album “Talking Book”. The song features Wonder’s distinctive vocals, as well as a driving bassline, funky guitar riff, and infectious drumbeat that make it an instant dancefloor favorite. The lyrics describe the dangers of believing in superstitions and encourage listeners to focus on the power of their own actions and decisions. “Superstition” is a timeless classic that showcases Stevie Wonder’s incredible songwriting and musical talent, and its influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who have been inspired by Wonder’s innovative sound.
8. That’s What Friends Are For (1985)
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a song written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, originally recorded by Rod Stewart for the movie Night Shift in 1982. However, the song became a massive hit in 1985 when it was re-recorded as a charity single by Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight. The song’s lyrics celebrate the power of friendship and support, and the vocal performances of the four legendary singers add to its emotional impact. The song’s popularity led to it raising millions of dollars for AIDS research, making it a powerful example of music’s ability to bring people together for a good cause.
9. Part-Time Lover (1985)
“Part-Time Lover” is an upbeat and catchy song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1985. The song features Wonder’s signature funky sound, with prominent use of synthesizers and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics speak of a romantic relationship that is kept secret, with the singer declaring that he is a “part-time lover” and that he and his partner must keep their love hidden. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. “Part-Time Lover” remains a beloved classic from Stevie Wonder’s extensive discography.
10. I Just Called to Say I Love You (1984)
“I Just Called to Say I Love You” is a romantic ballad by Stevie Wonder, released in 1984. The song’s lyrics express a simple yet powerful message of love and affection, and its catchy melody and gentle instrumentation make it a timeless classic. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” remains a popular love song to this day, reminding listeners of the importance of expressing their feelings to their loved ones.