Top Ten Songs by Stevie Wonder

On May 13, 1950 in Saginaw MI, Steveland Harland Judkins was born. Steveland would later become known throughout the entire world as the musical icon Stevie Wonder. Suffering from a visual condition called retinopathy of prematurely (ROP), Stevie Wonder has been virtually blind since birth. Although this condition was present, Stevie Wonder did not let it interfere with his musical genius. Perhaps his heightened attention to intricate details of melody and rhythm have assisted in catapulting his music to fantastic levels.

Stevie Wonder had has been recording music for over 40 years and his fan base spans gender, racial, and socio-economic barriers. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy from this prolific master musician and craftsman of words. Stevie Wonder’s songs can be heard on advertisements, in movies, and of course on popular shows like American Idol!

It becomes extremely difficult to narrow down the list of top Stevie Wonder songs to just 10. However, I’m up for the challenge. This top ten list represents the best of Stevie Wonder and perhaps the best in all of us.

“Sir Duke”

This song is a classic and captures the very essence of music. Any music lover knows the experience of actually “feeling” a song. My sincere wish is for everyone to truly experience a song. It’s about more than a great beat or a well crafted verse. A hit is a hit when you can feel it.

“For Once in My Life”

This song is an instant motivator for anyone who listens to it. “For Once in my Life” is a powerful song that stands as a testament to the power of love and life. This song is an affirmation of the beauty that is still left in the world. I remember listening to this song as a young child just bouncing to the wonderful beats. Now, I can truly appreciate and attest to the lyrics.

“I Just Called to Say I Love You”

This song is simplicity at it’s best. The lyrics are very straight forward yet heart felt. I first remember hearing this song at the age of 5 while watching “The Cosby Show”. It made me happy then and I must admit that hearing the song warms my heart now.

“Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours”

This type of song is very rare. Imagine someone admitting that they made a mistake! This song is contagious from it’s musical arrangement to it’s musical content.

“Overjoyed”

Just listen to the words in this song! This is songwriting at it’s best. “Overjoyed” captures all the emotions of fighting to save love. Rather than just give up when the times are rough, Stevie Wonder insists that there is still hope. He compels the listener to join in the fight as well. More people should work this hard to save what they have instead of needlessly surrendering to the doubts and temptations of the world outside of their love.

“Living for the City”

This song is truly a commentary on the social struggles that existed in the 1970’s. It tells the stories of several characters who were doing their best to survive. Although, the music is brilliantly done, the social impact and edgy story telling makes “Living for the City” a classic.

“I Wish”

With a very upbeat and uplifting tempo this song manages to tell a very personal story of longing for the good old days. Although the details of his story differ from my own, I can readily relate it. I always think back to my own childhood when I hear this song. That is what music is all about.

“Ribbon in the Sky”

I have heard this song sang and played at many weddings and I truly understand why. The words are beautiful and the meaning is even more amazing. Several remakes have been attempted but none come close to the sincerity of the original.

“My Cherie Amour”

This ballad seems timeless. Stevie Wonder is not afraid to express his emotion through song. No doubt, this song will forever be a karaoke favorite.

“Do I Do”

A great dancing number, “Do I Do” is fun and flirty. It sends you on a mental break from the stress of the world around you. It’s fun to live and fun to be in love and this song represents that fact.