Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder, 1976
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
As with every record, there are always a few songs I don't enjoy, but of the 21 tracks on the extended version, I love at least 17 of them.
This is easily one of my favorite albums of all-time; it's fun, groovy, diverse, complex, and passionate. Stevie Wonder's ability to transition so easily (yet naturally) from soul to Latin funk to a hymn is really amazing, and I can only say: WOW.
My top 4 tracks, since I can't pick only 3 (not including Isn't She Lovely, Sir Duke, As, or I Wish, since I knew those already) are:
1. Another Star
Another Star is amazing; I can't get enough of it. The driving groove, the complex instrumentation, the choir of voices—it's just perfect.
2. Love's in Need of Love Today
Love's in Need of Love Today is musically complex without feeling stuffy, and I love that. Its almost-gospel-inspired opening is echoed throughout the track, while Wonder lays terrific vocals on top. I didn't think much of this song when I first heard it, but I've found myself coming back to it extremely often.
3. Black Man
Black Man is a powerful and politically-charged song that is quite groovy.
Its message is clear, its melodies and rhythm are perfect, and its final call-and-response/classroom section fits it like a glove. It's the anti-racism anthem that I wish I'd heard sooner.
4. Ngiculela-Es Una Historia-I Am Singing
NEUHIAS shows off Wonder's musical mobility, and I was more than impressed when I heard it for the first time. When he moves from one section to another, it feels like a natural progression; through this track, I imagine walking through a city and passing through three vibrant and distinct neighborhoods that peacefully exist side by side.
