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Stevie Wonder
@ the 02
30 September 2008
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Stevie Wonder's full biography
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I was reluctant, almost fearful
to write anything about this man and his music. This site is a blend
of well known - and probably a few unknown facts and figures about
artists and musicians I love and respect. How do I begin to share
the immense contribution this man has made to the world of music?
I will try and keep it brief, as the Internet is already full of
information about Stevie Wonder and his music. Most of us –
young and ‘not so young’ are aware of at least a small
portion of Wonder’s recording catalogue. It is possible that
the only person who has a complete record of his contribution is
Mr Wonder himself.
Over the years I have gently dismissed comments
from friends and music journalists who have shrugged off Wonder’s
musical contribution over the past decade. Many people have made
comments regarding his recent albums such as:
“Well- Stevie’s latest album is
OK, but it’s not “Songs In The Key Of Life”,
or “Music Of My Mind!”
My reply to such degrees of comparison is to normally
ask – How would ‘YOU’ improve on the recordings
mentioned above? After all – that was then – and this
is now!
Michael Jackson also suffers similar ‘comparison
attacks’ regarding his more recent work and “Thriller”.
It has been said that Stevie Wonder became too
embroiled – and tended to over use digital / synthesiser technology.
I would urge all who feel this way to revisit “The Woman In
Red” soundtrack (1984), which contain stunning, delicately
blended ballads featuring Dionne Warwick, or the cleverly fused,
uptempo compostion “Love Light In Flight” from the same
album. The “Jungle Fever” soundtrack (1991) also highlights
Wonder’s unique play on synthesiser technology. Neither of
these albums sound strange or dated when aired today.
One of the many gifts ‘Mr Wonderful’
has to offer is the gift of inspiration.
I was fortunate to catch his performance of “Positivity”
on a late night chat show recently. I was immediately energised
and started jotting down a few notes on how his music and presence
made me feel. Stevie Wonder has produced a sea of wonderful music
and many award winning masterpieces, over many decades. The great
news is that he is still riding that wave today.
A Time To Love album review
Stevie Wonder’s “A Time To Love”
album couldn’t have arrived on my welcome door mat at a better
time. I naturally become reflective towards the end of every year
and the end of November – beginning of December 2005 was no
exception.
As usual - time was not on my side, so I initially
settled with examining the C D artwork, reading the personnel listing
and song lyrics.
‘Mr. Wonderful’ has the power to inspire
by his written words alone. The word ‘GIFTED’ does not
nearly describe this man’s master over lyrical content
“A Time To Love” is a lyrically rich
complex piece of work, with clear messages within its multi-layered
compositions. Just what I would expect from a Stevie Wonder album.
Of course there are high points and mid points in this album, but
never any low points. We all receive messages differently and in
turn process them in our own way. However – Wonder has always
been able to reach many with his messages of love, hope and peace.
Somehow he is still able to approach and capture emotions from unique
angles, the track “Moon Blue” is testament to this.
“If Your Love Cannot Be Moved” carries a million political
messages within it’s lyrical core for those open enough to
receive.
It must be an honour for any musician to get a
phone call from Stevie requesting – or accepting collaboration.
Wonder must also be extremely proud to have his daughter (Aisha
Morris) sing alongside him.
Ms Morris features on at least two tracks, providing
a beautiful backdrop for Stevie’s poetic lyrics to…
well just flow. (“How Will I Know”). The ballad “True
Love” with it’s unusual drum backbeat, carries a jazzy
/ bluesy slant and possibly gives the listener insight into Wonder’s
next venture?
I will say no more regarding this album…
I want to listen and indulge.
I suggest you do the same.
Robin Francis
December 2005
© Michael Valentine Studio Ltd.
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