A Time To Love album review. December 2005

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 CD 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 its 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.

More from Stevie Wonder here... Motown

Robin Francis
December 2005
© Michael Valentine Studio

Please note: I was one of six photographers given permission to photograph Stevie Wonder
.We were given exactly sixty seconds in the front pit area with limited angles.

Featured – Stevie Wonder & Aisha Zakia Morris (Stevie Wonder’s daughter)

Go back to the soul gallery.

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