Album Information:
Album ID: 9813
About Stevie Wonder:
Stevie Wonder is a legendary American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, and one of the most successful and beloved artists in music history. He was born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was born prematurely and was put in an oxygen-rich incubator that caused retinopathy of prematurity, which resulted in total blindness. Despite this, Stevie showed a deep love for music at a very young age and began playing instruments such as the harmonica, piano, and drums by the age of three.
In 1961, at the age of 11, Stevie signed with Motown Records and became Little Stevie Wonder. He released his first album, 'The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie' in 1962, which showcased his incredible musicianship and energetic style. Despite early success, Stevie struggled to find his sound until the release of his 1972 album 'Music of My Mind,' which marked his transition to a more mature and experimental sound. This was the beginning of Stevie's remarkable string of classic albums that defined the 1970s and solidified his status as an icon of American music.
In 1973, Stevie released 'Innervisions,' which was a groundbreaking masterpiece that expanded the boundaries of soul music with themes of social and political consciousness and innovative instrumentation. The album produced the hits 'Living For The City' and 'Higher Ground' and won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.
Stevie followed up 'Innervisions' with 'Fulfillingness' First Finale' (1974) and 'Songs In The Key Of Life' (1976), both of which were incredibly successful and critically acclaimed. 'Songs In The Key Of Life' was a double album consisting of some of Stevie's most beloved hits, such as 'Sir Duke,' 'I Wish,' and 'Isn't She Lovely.'
Throughout his career, Stevie has been a champion of social justice and civil rights, using his music to address issues such as poverty, racism, and discrimination. He has also been an advocate for blindness awareness and education and has worked with organizations such as the American Foundation for the Blind.
Stevie has won 25 Grammy Awards, including Lifetime Achievement (1996) and Album of the Year for 'Innervisions,' 'Fulfillingness' First Finale,' and 'Songs In The Key Of Life.' He has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Stevie continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and music lovers with his unparalleled talent and musical legacy.
About the album Talking Book:
Talking Book is a classic album by the legendary musician Stevie Wonder, released in 1972. This album marked a significant shift in Wonder's musical style, as he began to incorporate more funk and rock influences into his sound. The album is filled with memorable melodies, powerful lyrics, and virtuosic instrumental performances.
The album's opening track, 'You Are the Sunshine of My Life,' is an upbeat and optimistic love song that sets the tone for the rest of the record. The song features Wonder's trademark harmonica playing, as well as his smooth and soulful vocals.
The next track, 'Maybe Your Baby,' is a more personal and introspective song that showcases Wonder's impressive keyboard skills. The song's funky bassline and catchy chorus make it an instant classic.
One of the standout tracks on the album is 'Superstition,' which has become one of Wonder's most well-known and beloved songs. The song's driving beat, infectious guitar riffs, and powerful vocals make it an absolute powerhouse.
Other notable tracks on the album include 'You've Got It Bad Girl,' a jazzy ballad with a beautiful melody and poignant lyrics; 'Blame It On The Sun,' a soulful and emotional ballad that showcases Wonder's impressive range and vocal control; and 'I Believe (When I Fall in Love It Will Be Forever),' a powerful love song with an epic, orchestral arrangement.
Overall, Talking Book is a classic album that showcases Stevie Wonder's incredible talent as a songwriter, vocalist, and instrumentalist. It is a must-listen for any fans of soul, funk, rock, or pop music, and is a testament to Wonder's enduring influence on popular music.
Members:
I am sorry, but Stevie Wonder is a solo artist, so he doesn't have key members. However, throughout his career, he worked with many musicians and collaborators. Some notable musicians who have worked with Stevie Wonder include:
1. Nathan Watts - Born on May 25, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, Nathan Watts is a bassist who has worked with Stevie Wonder since the 1970s. He has played on many of Wonder's albums, including 'Songs in the Key of Life' and 'Innervisions.'
2. Greg Phillinganes - Born on May 12, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, Phillinganes is a keyboardist and has worked with Stevie Wonder since the 1970s. He played on many of Wonder's hit albums, including 'Hotter than July' and 'Jungle Fever.'
3. Raymond Maldonado - Born on September 2, 1953, in New York, Raymond Maldonado is a trumpeter who worked with Stevie Wonder on his 'Songs in the Key of Life' album. He was part of the horn section that played on the album's hit song, 'Sir Duke.'
4. Michael Sembello - Born on April 17, 1954, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Michael Sembello is a guitarist and singer who worked with Stevie Wonder on the soundtrack for the film 'Jungle Fever.' He played guitar on the hit song 'Fun Day' from the soundtrack.
5. Deniece Williams - Born on June 3, 1950, in Gary, Indiana, Deniece Williams is a singer who worked with Stevie Wonder on the hit song 'I Just Called to Say I Love You.' She provided background vocals for the song.
Each of these musicians has a significant musical career and is recognized as a respected artist in their own right.
Track List for Talking Book:
1. 'You Are the Sunshine of My Life' (2:58) - This is a classic love song that features Wonder's smooth vocals and upbeat instrumentation. The lyrics express the joy and happiness that the narrator experiences when they are with their significant other.
2. 'Maybe Your Baby' (6:51) - This funk-infused track showcases Wonder's skills as a multi-instrumentalist, with him playing both drums and keyboards. The lyrics describe the narrator's frustration with a lover who is indecisive and unreliable.
3. 'You and I' (4:39) - This romantic ballad highlights Wonder's tender vocals and emotional depth. The lyrics speak of the deep connection and commitment between two lovers.
4. 'Tuesday Heartbreak' (3:02) - A mid-tempo ballad that discusses the heartbreak associated with a partner leaving and the realization that sometimes things just don't work out.
5. 'You've Got It Bad Girl' (4:56) - Wonder's intricate keyboard work is on display in this track, which features a jazzy, soulful groove. The lyrics address the jealousy and possessiveness that can arise in a relationship.
6. 'Superstition' (4:26) - One of Wonder's most well-known hits, this funky, groovy track features his distinctive vocals and iconic clavinet riff. The lyrics caution against believing in superstitions and false beliefs.
7. 'Big Brother' (3:34) - A politically charged track that speaks to the paranoid nature of government surveillance. The funky instrumentation and Wonder's passionate vocals make for an engaging listen.
8. 'Blame It on the Sun' (3:26) - This slow ballad speaks to the disappointment and heartbreak that comes when love doesn't go as planned. Wonder's emotive vocals and delicate instrumentation make for a poignant listening experience.
9. 'Looking for Another Pure Love' (4:43) - A soulful, groovy track that features Wonder's signature harmonica playing. The lyrics express the narrator's desire for a love that is pure and uncomplicated.
10. 'I Believe (When I Fall in Love It Will Be Forever)' (4:52) - A heartfelt ballad that speaks to the deep, emotional connection that can arise with true love. Wonder's vocals are full of emotion and vulnerability.
Overall, Talking Book showcases Stevie Wonder's incredible range and artistry, from funky dance tracks to soulful ballads. The album is a classic of the R&B genre and remains a beloved favorite of many fans.
Discography for Stevie Wonder:
Sure! Here's a complete discography for Stevie Wonder:
Studio albums:
1. The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie - September 1962
2. Tribute to Uncle Ray - October 1962
3. With a Song in My Heart - November 1963
4. Stevie at the Beach - June 1964
5. Up-Tight (Everything's Alright) - May 1966
6. Down to Earth - December 1966
7. I Was Made to Love Her - August 1967
8. Someday at Christmas - November 1967
9. Eivets Rednow - February 1968
10. For Once in My Life - December 1968
11. My Cherie Amour - August 1969
12. Signed, Sealed & Delivered - August 1970
13. Where I'm Coming From - April 1971
14. Music of My Mind - March 1972
15. Talking Book - October 1972
16. Innervisions - August 1973
17. Fulfillingness' First Finale - July 1974
18. Songs in the Key of Life - September 1976
19. Journey through the Secret Life of Plants - October 1979
20. Hotter than July - September 1980
21. The Woman in Red - August 1984
22. In Square Circle - September 1985
23. Characters - November 1987
24. Conversation Peace - March 1995
25. A Time to Love - October 2005
Live albums:
1. Little Stevie Wonder/The 12 Year Old Genius - May 1963
2. Recorded Live: The 12 Year Old Genius - August 1963
3. Live at the Talk of the Town - 1970
4. Natural Wonder - June 1995
Compilation albums:
1. Stevie Wonder's Greatest Hits - December 1968
2. Stevie Wonder's Greatest Hits Vol. 2 - November 1971
3. Looking Back - October 1977
4. Stevie Wonder's Original Musiquarium I - May 1982
5. At the Close of a Century - October 1999
Soundtrack albums:
1. The Secret Life of Plants - May 1979
2. Jungle Fever - May 1991
Singles:
Too numerous to list individually, Stevie Wonder's singles were released on numerous labels, including Tamla/Motown, Tamla, Gordy, and others, from 1962 through present day. Some of his most famous singles include 'Fingertips Pt. 2' (1963), 'Superstition' (1972), and 'I Just Called to Say I Love You' (1984).
Hope that helps!