Stevie Wonder: A Musical Guide to the Classic Albums

Backbeat Books

Publisher's description:

Stevie Wonder, winner of 19 Grammy Awards and a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is a much-beloved American icon and an indisputable genius not only of soul and rhythm and blues, but also popular music in general. Author Steve Lodder tells Wonder's story from a fresh musical perspective, concentrating on his most productive period, 1971–1981. After an in-depth look at Wonder's background and his early history with Motown, Lodder explores in detail the musical characteristics and influences found on the classic albums from the '70s: Music of My Mind, Talking Book, Innervisions, Fulfillingness' First Finale, and Songs in the Key of Life. Taking full advantage of the new opportunities afforded by synthesizer technology and multitracking, and inspired by the lyrical depth of Marvin Gaye and Sly Stone, Wonder created a series of albums as popular as they are acclaimed. The book features 80 color and B&W photos - many never before published.