Stevie Wonder is one of the most beloved and influential artists in the history of popular music. Over the course of his long and storied career, he has created a wealth of classic songs that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and uplift listeners around the world. From his early Motown hits to his later works, Stevie Wonder’s music has touched the hearts and souls of generations of fans.
When it comes to ranking the best Stevie Wonder songs of all time, it’s difficult to choose just a few, as he has so many classic songs that have become staples of popular music. However, there are certain songs that stand out as true masterpieces of the soul, funk, and R&B genres. From the irresistible funk of “Superstition” to the soulful balladry of “My Cherie Amour,” Stevie Wonder’s music is a testament to his incredible songwriting and musical talent.
Many of Stevie Wonder’s songs have also had a powerful social and political impact, with lyrics that address issues of race, justice, and equality. Songs like “Living for the City” and “Higher Ground” continue to resonate with audiences and speak to the struggles and triumphs of people all over the world. Overall, the best Stevie Wonder songs of all time are a testament to his incredible talent and his ability to create music that touches the hearts and souls of people all over the world. His music has inspired generations of fans and will continue to do so for many years to come.
1. Superstition
“Superstition” is a classic funk and rock song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1972. The song’s memorable and instantly recognizable riff, played on the clavinet, is one of the most iconic in music history. The song features a driving beat and a powerful horn section that creates a sense of energy and excitement. The song’s lyrics warn against believing in superstitions and encourage listeners to take control of their lives. “Superstition” has become a timeless classic and a staple of rock and funk playlists. Its influence can be heard in countless other songs in a variety of genres, and it remains a favorite of fans of all ages. The song is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s incredible musical talent and remains one of his most beloved and enduring works.
2.Sir Duke
“Sir Duke” is an upbeat and lively funk song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1977. The song pays tribute to some of the greatest musicians of the past, including Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Louis Armstrong. The song features a driving horn section and a catchy melody that creates a sense of joy and celebration. The song’s lyrics express the narrator’s love of music and the important role it plays in bringing people together. “Sir Duke” has become a beloved classic and a favorite of fans of all ages, and its influence can be heard in countless other songs in a variety of genres. The song is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s incredible musical talent and his ability to create music that uplifts and inspires listeners.
3. As
“As” is a classic soulful love song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1977. The song features Stevie Wonder’s smooth and soulful vocals, and its upbeat tempo and catchy melody create a sense of joy and celebration. The song’s lyrics express the narrator’s undying love for his partner, promising to love them always, through the good times and bad. The song’s memorable chorus, which repeats the phrase “until the rainbow burns the stars out in the sky,” has become a beloved classic and a popular wedding song. “As” is a timeless classic that showcases Stevie Wonder’s incredible musical talent and remains a beloved classic of the soul and R&B genres.
4. Living for the City
“Living for the City” is a powerful and socially conscious song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1973. The song’s lyrics describe the struggles of a young black man as he tries to make a life for himself in the city, facing discrimination, poverty, and injustice. The song’s lyrics are accompanied by an upbeat funk groove and a powerful horn section that gives the song an energetic and uplifting feel. “Living for the City” is a poignant commentary on the realities of life for many people in urban areas, and its message of social justice and equality continues to resonate with audiences around the world. The song is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s incredible songwriting and musical talent and is considered one of his greatest works.
5. My Cherie Amour
“My Cherie Amour” is a classic soul ballad by Stevie Wonder, released in 1969. The song’s French title translates to “my dear love,” and the song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s feelings of love and devotion for his partner. The song features Stevie Wonder’s smooth, soulful vocals and a memorable melody that makes it instantly recognizable. The song’s arrangement includes a variety of instruments, including strings, horns, and a harpsichord, giving it a unique and elegant sound. “My Cherie Amour” is a timeless classic that has been covered by many artists over the years and has become a staple of romantic playlists. The song is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s incredible musical talent and remains a beloved classic of the soul and R&B genres.
6. Higher Ground
“Higher Ground” is a classic funk song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1973. The song features a driving bassline and a memorable clavinet riff, and the song’s message of spiritual enlightenment and personal growth has made it a timeless classic. The song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s desire to find a path to a better life, and the song’s infectious groove and uplifting message make it a favorite of fans of all ages. “Higher Ground” has been covered by many artists over the years, and its influence can be heard in countless other songs in a variety of genres. The song’s timeless message of hope and positivity continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world, making it a true classic.
7. I Was Made to Love Her
“I Was Made to Love Her” is a classic soul song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1967. The song features Stevie Wonder’s signature harmonica playing and showcases his powerful, soulful vocals. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody create a sense of joy and excitement, as the narrator expresses his love for his partner. The song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s devotion and dedication to his love interest, and the song has become a timeless classic that has been covered by many artists over the years. “I Was Made to Love Her” is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s incredible musical talent and remains a beloved classic of the soul and R&B genres.
8. Master Blaster (Jammin’)
“Master Blaster (Jammin’)” is a reggae-influenced song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1980. The song was written and produced by Stevie Wonder himself, and its infectious beat, catchy melody, and positive lyrics make it a favorite of fans of all ages. The song’s title and lyrics pay homage to the late Bob Marley, who was a major influence on Wonder’s music. “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” features a distinctive bassline and guitar riff that make it instantly recognizable, and the song’s upbeat, danceable groove has made it a staple of parties and events for decades. The song’s message of unity, peace, and love continues to resonate with fans around the world, making it a true classic.
9. Lately
“Lately” is a classic R&B ballad by Stevie Wonder, released in 1980. The song was written and produced by Stevie Wonder himself and features his signature soulful vocals and powerful lyrics. The song’s slow tempo and melancholic melody create a sense of longing and heartbreak, as the narrator laments the loss of a love that once was. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Luther Vandross, who had a major hit with his rendition in 1993. “Lately” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s incredible songwriting and musical talent.
10. I Just Called To Say I Love You
“I Just Called to Say I Love You” is a popular song by Stevie Wonder, released in 1984. The song was written and produced by Stevie Wonder himself and became a massive hit, reaching number one on various music charts around the world. The song is a simple yet heartwarming expression of love, where the narrator just calls his love interest to say those three magic words. The melody is catchy, and Stevie Wonder’s vocals are soulful and passionate. The song has become a classic and is often played at weddings, anniversaries, and other romantic occasions. It has also been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a timeless love song.
11. Part Time Lover
“Part-Time Lover” is a classic pop and R&B song recorded by Stevie Wonder in 1985. The song’s lyrics describe a man who is involved in a secret relationship with a woman who is already in a committed relationship. The song’s melody is characterized by its catchy chorus, memorable synth riff, and upbeat rhythm section. The song’s blend of pop and R&B sounds made it a hit both on the dance floor and on the radio. “Part-Time Lover” was a major commercial success and remains a beloved classic of the 1980s pop music era. Its message of forbidden love and the dangers of infidelity continue to resonate with listeners today.
12.Isn’t She Lovely
“Isn’t She Lovely” is a classic Stevie Wonder song from his 1976 album “Songs in the Key of Life”. The song was written by Stevie Wonder as a tribute to his daughter, Aisha Morris. The song’s lyrics describe the joy and wonder of becoming a father and celebrating the arrival of a new life. The song’s melody is characterized by its catchy piano riff, memorable harmonica solo, and upbeat rhythm section. “Isn’t She Lovely” has become a beloved classic of the R&B genre and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its message of love and celebration of new life continue to make it a favorite among listeners of all ages.
13.Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” is a classic soul song recorded by Stevie Wonder in 1970. The song’s lyrics express the singer’s commitment and devotion to their lover, proclaiming that they are “signed, sealed, delivered” and ready to make their love last. The song’s catchy hook, memorable horns, and lively rhythm section make it an upbeat and joyful celebration of love. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Peter Frampton and Blue featuring Stevie Wonder himself. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” is a timeless classic of the soul genre, and its message of unbridled passion and commitment continues to resonate with listeners today.
14. We Can Work It Out
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“We Can Work It Out” is a classic Beatles song from 1965. It was written primarily by Paul McCartney, with some contributions from John Lennon. The song’s lyrics describe a couple who are experiencing relationship troubles and trying to work through them. The song encourages open communication and compromise in order to resolve conflicts and move forward together. The song’s melody is characterized by a catchy chorus and a memorable harmonium solo. The song’s popularity and cultural significance have made it one of the Beatles’ most iconic tracks. Its message of communication and cooperation in relationships continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
15. Uptight (Everything’s Alright)
“Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” is a classic Motown song originally recorded by Stevie Wonder in 1965. It is a song about positivity and perseverance, with lyrics that encourage listeners to keep their heads up even in the face of adversity. The song’s upbeat melody, driving rhythm section, and memorable hook make it a classic of the Motown sound. It has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, including The Rolling Stones and The Ramsey Lewis Trio. “Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” is a timeless anthem of hope and resilience, and it continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
16.For Once in My Life
“For Once in My Life” is a classic soul song originally recorded by Stevie Wonder in 1967. It has since been covered by numerous artists, including Tony Bennett, Michael Bublé, and Diana Ross. The song’s lyrics express the feeling of finding true love and happiness after a lifetime of waiting and disappointment. The upbeat melody, complete with horns and a lively rhythm section, makes the song a joyous celebration of love and life. Its timeless appeal has made it a favorite among fans of soul and pop music, and its message continues to resonate with listeners today.
17. Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer
“Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” is a poignant and emotional ballad by Stevie Wonder, released in 1970 as part of his album “Where I’m Coming From”. The song features Wonder’s soulful vocals accompanied by a simple yet effective instrumental backing consisting of piano, guitar, and strings. The lyrics depict the heartbreak and sense of loss that comes with a sudden breakup, with Wonder singing of the pain and confusion he feels at the departure of his lover. The song is a testament to Wonder’s ability to convey deep emotion and vulnerability through his music, and it remains a beloved classic in his catalog.
18. Fingertips
“Fingertips” is a dynamic and high-energy live recording by the young Stevie Wonder, released in 1963 as a single. The song was recorded during a live performance at the Regal Theater in Chicago and features Wonder’s incredible musicianship on the harmonica and his soulful vocals. The song starts off as a rollicking R&B number before transitioning into an instrumental jam that showcases Wonder’s virtuosity on the harmonica. The audience can be heard enthusiastically cheering and clapping throughout the performance, adding to the electrifying energy of the song. “Fingertips” became a breakout hit for Stevie Wonder, launching his career as a musical prodigy and establishing him as one of Motown’s most promising young talents.
19. I Wish
“I Wish” is a timeless funk classic by Stevie Wonder, released in 1976 as part of his landmark album “Songs in the Key of Life”. The song features a driving groove and an infectious horn riff, with Wonder’s soulful vocals delivering a nostalgic and heartfelt tribute to his childhood memories growing up in the inner city. The lyrics touch upon themes of family, friendship, and the joys of youth, while also acknowledging the struggles and hardships faced by many in underprivileged communities. “I Wish” showcases Wonder’s remarkable musicianship and songwriting ability, as well as his ability to blend social commentary with infectious, danceable music.
20. Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day
“Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” is a lively and upbeat song by the legendary singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder. Released in 1968, the song features Wonder’s signature soulful vocals accompanied by a catchy melody and a funky, horn-driven instrumental backing. The song’s lyrics depict the joy and excitement of falling in love and the playful wordplay in the title adds to the song’s infectious and fun-loving nature. With its irresistible groove and memorable chorus, “Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” remains a classic of Motown and soul music, showcasing Stevie Wonder’s boundless musical talent and infectious energy.
Jared Parker is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
