Stevie Wonder is most definitely one of my favorite artists, and today Stevie celebrates his 61st birthday. Needless to say, this is dedicated to the wonderful music of the multi-talented soul-legend from Michigan. I've had the pleasure of seeing him live in concert on two occasions, and his stage-presence matches his unique sense of musicality.
Although still active today, his best work (in my opinion) is to be found in his releases during the 60's and 70's. The diversity in his repetoire is incredible, as is the range of his voice.
Here are some of my favorite tunes from one of the true Motown-legends. Happy Birthday, Stevie!
Sir Duke
Probably one of the most well-known songs from his funky catalogue, this song is taken from the classic album Songs in the Key of Life.
Free
Taken from the album Characters, released in 1987, this song and the lyrics speak volumes of Stevie Wonder's range, and the choir does a pretty amazing job as well.
A Place in the Sun
A young Stevie Wonder without his characteristic long hair performs one of his songs from the album Down to Earth, released in 1966.
Don't Know Why I Love You
Stevie sings his heart out in this great tune from the album For Once in My Life, released in 1968.
They Won't Go When I Go
Haunting song from the album Fullfillingness' First Finale, released in 1974.
Lately
This ballad was on the album Hotter Than July, released in 1980.
Part Time Lover
Stevie Wonder encapsulates the 80's in less then 5 minutes. From the album In Square Circle from... you guessed it, 1985.
Living for the City
Another great live performance of another great song, from the album Innervisions, released in 1973.
Higher Ground
Funky classic from the same album, Innervisions.
Evil
Amazing tune from the album Music of My Mind, released in 1972.
Yester-Me, Yester-You, Yesterday
Stevie just standing there kicking ass as usual. From the album My Cherie Amour, released in 1969.
Never Had a Dream Come True
Great song from the album Signed, Sealed and Delivered, released in 1970 (with possibly the corniest album-cover he ever had).
Village Ghetto Land
Another song from the album Songs in the Key of Life, this time showing the more socially interested side of Stevie.
I Wish
More of the funky stuff, again from Songs in the Key of Life.
If It's Magic
Live performance of another beautiful tune, again from SOngs in the Key of Life.
You & I
One of Stevie's, in my opinion, most beautiful ballads. From Talking Book, released in 1972.
Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer
Another great ballad. From the album Where I'm Coming From, released in 1971.
To end this journey through the music of Stevie Wonder, here's a few songs that should get your feet moving for the Weekend, as well as the one song I really couldn't leave out on this occasion. Enjoy!
For Once in My Life
Superstition
Happy Birthday
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