Reviews (page 6 of 14)
If we think of an album that can be described as wonderful, the first one that would come to mind would definitely be "Songs in the Key of Life" by Steve Wonder. It was the first time I listened to one of this artist, at first I thought it would be boring because it wasn't one of my favorite genres and its duration was very long, but now I can say, every second of those 1 hour and 45 minutes was worth it. The songs are sweet and happy without becoming silly and innocent, That sweet sound explodes into an incendiary chorus that makes every particle of your body want to shake.
Many legendary tracks :)
6
A powerhouse album only someone at the top of their game could make. R&B, jazz, pop, classical, funk -- it's all over the place, but pretty cohesive. Might not be my favorite Stevie album, but it's a high water mark for music. 4.7
A true classic
YAY!! There’s a bunch of songs that just don’t resonate with me. But then the classics start and who can care about anything else. So many brilliant hits off this album.
An absolute masterpiece and Stevie Wonder’s defining achievement which portrays the fullest range of the human experience.
long as fuck but for a good reason. stevie had a lot to say and he did it with a refined artisty that few artists have had the privilege to achieve in their youth. this album is an all time treasure.
Don't know what else can be said about this album that hasn't been said. Easily one of the best - if not the best album ever made. An album that I go back to all the time, an album that has defined key moments in my life, and an album that brings tears to my eyes every time it plays.
One of the very few exceptions I’ll Make to a long album, this is Stevie’s true masterpiece. It’s just filled to the brim of brilliance. One of the best of all time.
Crazy I never heard this before
I can feel it all over
the goat's best
9/10 - Saturn is an absolute banger. I was feeling the music throughout the whole album and it was so jazzy.
If it weren't for the first few songs this would be an easy 10, like 8.5/10
Truly an amazing album
Incredible to think that this is one of the greatest albums of all time, yet it’s probably Wonder’s weaker album from this period of his career.
Masterpiece
It would be an act of meanness to deduct from this incredibly generous double album for occasional sagginess when it has enough classics to fill half a best of.
Where Stevie does everything. It also has innovative use of synths.
This is an incredible album. It is joyful, soulful, and even angry (at time, in a "Stevie" way). This is an amazing expression of life, love, and strife. This is Stevie's 18th studio album, and may be his best. Some of the songs are now classics, bigger that R&B, or pop, or rock. This is a cultural expression, and may be one of the greatest albums of all time.
I know this is the album everyone is saying “easy 5 stars”…but this is easily 5 stars. Fucking AMAZING front to back! This is the rare double album that I feel doesn’t drag at all, doesn’t have filler, doesn’t feel repetitive, it just bangs. It’s an all-time artist at the top of their game proving their mastery of their craft. This must have been a laborious record to compose. It’s so deep and intricate, but feels so smooth and effortless. The production is godly, the arrangements are lush and full, it’s truly beautiful. What an honor to be able to experience this record. It’s one of those albums that truly makes this list worthwhile. I truly feel my life is a tiny bit more complete having listened through this album in its entirety for the first time, and knowing I’ll be able to revisit it on demand from now on. I wanted to start doing my top tracks again on this one, but there are simply too many to list out. Beautiful record, 105 minutes well spent.
another certified classic
Wow, just fantastic front to back. I really don’t want to stop listening. This is what music is meant to be
Un feu roulant de chansons funky, entraînantes, marquantes, revendicatrices. Un chef-d’œuvre, je crois
Any album with Sir Duke deserves 5 stars. But there are so many great tunes on this album aside from that one. Bonus points for discovering the source material for Coolio's "Gabgster's Paradise"
Don't get me wrong, the wole album is relentlessly strong but when Sir Duke hits it's like getting bodied by a train. Curse Will Smith for planting his lyrics in my head when I hear I Wish. It's a shame Saturn isn't the last song, it's so good and tonally would finish it perfectly. Also All Day Sucker adds nothing to the album.... sorry Stevie. Stevie Wonder is so good. No more notes.
Incredible
Soul music for the soul! I want soul food
Hot damn, what an album. Stevie Wonder is a goddamn national treasure. Hot take: this is a superb album. Hot take 2: other superb things include sex, Cheers, and pizza. Teenage wunderkind turned soul impresario. Nothing to not like here. We are lucky to have Stevie Wonder’s contributions to music and the universe. Cannot say anything objective about this album. It’s perfect.
Gold!
holy shit its long what christians wish their shit sounded like just makes u feel so nice iconic smooth and easy listening
So great. Lots of memorable riffs and emotional songs
1hr and 45mins is very long for an album imo, even if it is as good as Stevie. Great album. "Sir Duke", "I Wish", "Pastime Paradise"??? wtf, I never knew this is where gangsters paradise came from - mind blown.
Such. A. Great. Album. We aren't talking about Stevie Wonder enough. Loved almost every track. Stayed a little long, still easily 5 stars.
Funk, Disco and Pop. One of the greatest albums of all time. I tend not to like albums that are this long, nonetheless it is a smooth listen. I love Stevie's voice, it is very soothing and at the same time it's a super active album, it makes you want to dance. My favorite song will always be "Isn't She Lovely".
Still not fully convinced that he is actually blind.
оказался при втором прослушивании полным под завязку просто потрясающим материалом, звучащим ровно но так разнообразно. это потрясающе похоже все двадцать из двадцати это классика, это шедевр да это потрясающая запись и вторая частьне разочаровала она движовая и певучая это класс
One of the finest albums ever created
Mother Fuckin Stevie Wonder bro. This is his 18th album?!!?! Christ. GGs boys time to go home, homie won the game. 5/5 Village Ghetto Land Sir Duke I Wish Knocks me Off my Feet PastTime Paradise (did you know Gangsta's Paradise wasn't original) Summer Soft Ordinary Pain Isn't She Lovely I kinda lost track after this point but I was vibing the entire time
Best best best😿❤️
The second disc of the album is not as good as the first, but still a solid double album
Classic songs in here. Genius.
Didn't realize Stevie was basically a child star. Took him till his early twenties to find his signature sound, perfectly melding funk, soul, gospel, motown. That style culminated in this flawless gem of a double album. This record is why this project(1001albums) exists. This is for all music lovers to gather and agree that no matter personal preferences, this is the art of music perfected.
I've heard this album before, but damn is this amazing!! The songs I thought were kinda weak beforehand have grown on me so much since the last time I've heard it! Every song here has so much depth and passion. There's so much to uncover here and although it's almost 2 hours long, it never fails to keep my attention. Although I've given 5/5s before this album is perfect or the closest thing to it.
Peak. This album is so unbelievably good. Every song is a banger. Stevie wonder is just built different. Favorite songs: all of them
Love's In Need Of Love Today Sir Duke I Wish Knocks Me Off My Feet Pastime Paradise Isn't She Lovely As Another Star Ebony Eyes
Great album. I came in knowing the big hits like Sir Duke and Isn't She Lovely which are all deserving of their classic status, but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed a lot of the deep cuts: - Contusion is an unexpected jazz fusion instrumental that is great. - Pastime Paradise is instantly recognizable as the basis for Gangsta's Paradise, but the song itself is a true standout on this album. - Black Man has a really cool groove. - As is one that I didn't think I knew...until I listened and it was instantly recognizable with another great bass groove. This is a long album with long songs that's never boring, and that has lyrics that are often providing meaningful social commentary. I really enjoyed this album and its definitely Stevie Wonder's masterpiece.
One of my all-time favorite albums. An impressively robust and strong double album, with amazing song after amazing song! What I love about Stevie Wonder is the strength of his lyrics, music, and playing. He is at the top of each field. His music can be fun and bubbly, or dense and political. Harmonically complex without ever sacrificing catchiness. You turn on the album, and even within the first four tracks, you’re treated to a bevy of styles and ideas, all excellent. And that’s before you even reach the hits! Like, there’s not a single song on this album I would cut, and that is exceedingly rare for double albums! It puts to shame other albums to which I gave 5/5 stars. Track Picks: “Sir Duke,” “I Wish,” “Ebony Eyes.”
11/2/23. Masterpiece. Anyone that says otherwise I cannot trust. Still sounds excellent and every track is an 8/10 or higher.
- Absolute banger. - Incredible all around.
Masterpiece
A perfect album. If this were the 10 albums you must listen to, this album would be on it.
I can't believe I haven't heard this album before. I've heard some songs from it before, as they are very popular, but it's unfathomable to me that so many hits spawned from one album. In fact the quality and volume of this album is insane to me. I enjoyed nearly every track on the album. I'm definitely going to listen to some of these songs over and over again, what a powerhouse. Stevie Wonder is an icon.
they need to play this album in all hospital delivery rooms
How did I not know about this album? Perfect road trip vibe album. I had no idea.
It is a masterpiece
Words cannot fully describe the perfection of this album. Each piece is a journey through what music can truly convey in its simplest and complex forms. If this isn't the best album of all time, I don't know what is.
Brani Preferiti: Sarebbe da elencare gran parte dell'album, ma difficile fare a meno di: - "Sir Duke" - "Isn't She Lovely" Note: Come si fa a non apprezzare questo album, ogni canzone è spettacolare e il disco difficilmente perde di qualità durante il suo ascolto. È chiaro quanto questo disco sia ben accolto dal pubblico e diciamo così... è tutto ciò che dicono, ma è anche molto di più di quanto si possa immaginare.
5. God, this album is good. They pulled off a 2 hour album perfectly
the jazz flute
Absolute classic album by ‘Sir’ Stevie Wonder. Full of quite brilliant songs like Sir Duke, As, I Wish and Isn’t She Lovely. My favourite though is Pastime Paradise which Gangsta Paradise was derived from years later. 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This has always been a favorite of mine 😍
Un album d'une qualité exceptionnelle qui saura plaire à tout le monde sauf à eltrapeze. Pour information, si jamais on vous montrait la photographie d'une déchetterie et que l'on vous demandait d'y retrouver eltrapeze, vous en seriez tout bonnement incapables.
Genius. Timeless. Soulful.
Epic!
I remember playing this day after day when it came out, loads of real bangers on the album, difficult to pick best song but Pastime Paradise is my current favourite.
Amazing, complex instrumental composition. Sounds full, sounds like songs in the key of life
10/10
What an album
maybe one of the strongest albums ever, front to back. His 18th! recorded in Sausalito
I love this album and it is a go to for cooking, cleaning, and other household task!
So many amazing songs, and his sound is so iconic and influential.
You're dead inside if this music doesn't make you feel things. And he was twenty-six when this was released. Twenty-fucking-six. What am I even doing with my life.
Although Stevie is one of the greater musicians to have walked the Earth, I have not been a big fan of this style of music for a while now. As a guitar player however I know I’m missing out, and I do learn a lot of the rhythms. This album got me into it again.
So good. One of my all time favorite albums. There are weaker moments here and there, but overall its many strong moments are delightful. A friend of mine used to take a random line or two from Stevie Wonder’s lyrics, print them out without attribution, then anonymously post them around at his job.
Most Stevie albums, particularly in this era are essentially perfect. This album is a sprawling, almost 2 hour epic that is also essentially perfect. I might prefer Innervisions but there’s no denying the quality of this album, an easy 5 stars
Maybe the best album of all time?
Best album till now.
Finally a Stevie album I actually like. Glorious
The easiest 5 star I'll give. Beautiful, inspired, confident, vulnerable, free. This album is a pure gift to music and the world
Greatest stevie wonder album, so positive and incredible
If you don't love Stevie Wonder you don't have a soul. I can't tell if Stevie Wonder is the Bob Ross of music, or Bob Ross is the Stevie Wonder of painting. This man loves making music and music loves being made by him. And I love listening to it.
Awesome music. Way too long. Never finished it. Maybe will have time to later this week. 5/5.
So good. Just next level.
i mean come on
The first disc is absolutely flawless. Sir Duke, Summer Soft, Pastime Paradise, Love's In Need of Love Today its shining jewels. Overall great CD. Its soul, funk and borderline gospel sound flows perfectly and makes me feel at ease. Stevie Wonder is a musical genius. Second disc is also very good. It has a much calmer tone, instead relying on slower tempos for many of its songs. Loved this album! It surely got me interested in everything related to Stevie Wonder.
Exceptional: never would I ever think on first listen an album can shoot straight up to one of my favourite albums of all time, this was a real journey. The lyrics were crafted in the hands of god perfectly and it flowed without resistance at all. An instant classic I would recommend to anyone who cares for a listen. AND HIS 18TH ALBUM?!? This was insane.
First track was an insanely amazing intro, super catchy hook Second track is a nice vibe talking about God. Third track has orchestral parts. They are good. Fourth track funky. insane instrumentation. Chant at the beginning of second half. Fifth track is super vibey. This album is super funky. Stevie Wonder’s vocals are fantastic. Trumpets are fantastic Eight track has a orchestral part at the start of the song, really good. “Ordinary Pain” has a really great synth break. No other comments, all tracks are outstandingly amazing. Love the instrumentation all throughout
Perfect
Essential Tracks: I Wish (Playlist) Sir Duke Pastime Paradise Black Man
I hateeeee long albums. But I can make exceptions like this. Amazing front to back. Stevie never fails!!!
Come on. A double album with this much variety of rock, soul, R&B, jazz, *prog???* ("Contusion"), incredible songwriting, smash hits, amazing production .... This is like cramming 1982 Gretzky, 2023 Ohtani, and 1979 Balboa all into one package. 10/10 5 stars.
Stevie's masterpiece. Straight bussin
Just give me this one every day and we’ll call it quits yeah?
Mixed in with the Helen Reddy, Anne Murray, and Barry Manilow albums in my parent’s record collection were a few gems that made a huge impact on me as a kid. One was box set of Motown hits and another was Stevie Wonder’s Talking Book, from which I would play Superstition over and over. In high school I scored multiple Wonder albums— this one, Innervisions, and Fulfillingness’ First Finale (the ones with similar cover art)— in one lucky purchase. Sadly, I can’t say I’ve listened to this one much since then. It’s 7 a.m. on work day and I’m in the basement with it on now. One of the nice things about this music group is that it’s forcing me to listen to things that have been sitting on my shelf for a long time. Things I’ve wanted to hear again but haven’t made the time for. (Not to say I own every album here. There have already been several I haven’t heard or heard of.) It’s also nice to force myself to write— something I haven’t done regularly for years. This is becoming a music diary. Rambling musings I’m sure no one else wants to read. Anyway, I pulled out my vintage copy— it’s got the 24-page booklet advertised on the front cover; the completist in me is frustrated that it’s missing the bonus 7 inch with the extra tracks. Oh well. Some of these songs are familiar once they come on. Some of them I don’t ever recall hearing. Stevie really runs the gamut of styles on this— funk, r&b, prog, experimental soundscapes. I’d forgotten how good it is.
5/5
En fest
Very good 5/5
First of all, kudos to the generator for guiding me through Stevie Wonder’s classic period in chronological order. SITKOL feels like a summation of the albums that came before, only bigger and more ambitious. Inevitability, then, some of the same flaws are present (namely overly schmaltzy numbers like Knocks Me Off My Feet, and long, repetitive funk sections). But there’s some kind of voodoo going on here because even these tracks - which would usually be a big turn-off for me - grew on me after a few listens. Many of the tracks go on for ages, repeating the same few chords, but somehow I was ok with that. I’m guessing this is down to the sheer ambition/grandiosity of the thing - even the schmaltzy love songs became *epic* schmaltzy love songs. As with his previous albums, my favourite bits are often the squelchy, downright filthy sounding tunes, and those that employ less traditional sounds, like the superb All Day Sucker and, improbably, Have A Talk With God. Then there’s Sir Duke, which is my favourite Stevie song and absolutely joyous. I guess it’s this joie de vivre (plus ridiculous musicianship, obvs) that’s at the root of his appeal in general. I wouldn’t have scored this so highly earlier in the process, and I definitely wouldn’t have scored it so highly after the first listen. But my scoring system, my levels of perseverance, and, dare I say it, my tastes, have changed since then. Some ‘classic’ albums baffle me as to why they’re so revered, but I definitely understand the hype with this one. 4.5
One of may all time favorites
Incredible music, incredible lyric writing, incredible playing and incorporating sounds. Stevie Wonder should be considered by me more in the greatest artist of all time conversation.
One of the greatest albums ever created. 5/5.
Album of the week, and it's not even close.
It's amazing how many iconic songs are on this album, but I was equally amazed at how many incredible songs are on here that I'd never heard. It truly is the taqueria from the review matt shared the other day! What really blew me away on this album is how much work Stevie Wonder put into this. There's only 4 other people who get writing credit on this, besides that SW wrote, composed, and arranged the entirety of this monolith. I'm glad they gave us this on a friday. It took way more than a day to digest this one.
This is what I was waiting for all week! So many hits on this album but as a whole this thing is pure gold.
Not much to say other than this is quite possibly a Top 10 album of all time. Great stuff!
So many great songs
It really doesn't get much better than this.
first time listening have heard sir duke isn’t she lovely
Some people claim that you can recognize some 5-star albums already in the first couple of minutes. For this album, I completely agree, a great record in every aspect. Overall score:10/10
A few seconds in and you already know this is going to be a five star album.
Brilliant and far-stretching: basically everything is great about this record but on this occasion I particularly valued the infinite jam on Another Star.
It was kinda good no lie. The album was full of variety. Although I won't necessarily add all the songs to my list, some of them stood out to me. I didn't even know Pastime Paradise was that song I always hear around haha. Stevie Wonder is a legend so I guess this is why.
It’s considered one of the best of all time for a reason
Double album....always tricky. 18th album by SW. Run out of ideas? Utterly brilliant. Inventive, tunes, production, politics, voice. Genius. Have a 5.
Nice to hear again. Still sounds so current! Brings back childhood memories Didn't realise that pastime paradise was remixed into gangsta paradise.
Inmenso. Aquí hay mucho más que las colecciones de grandes éxitos dejan ver a los iniciados
👑
This album is a true 5 out of 5, 10 out of 10, no notes. I have always enjoyed Stevie Wonder and his voice, he has so many good songs but I was not prepared for this album to be so amazing. The instruments used throughout the whole album are so vibrant and unique the harmonica is so essential to these songs and this sound and maybe it's an overall underrated instrument in music in general. I think that's one takeaway listening to this. This is the blueprint for so many albums to come, I feel like it's specifically a blueprint for the miseducation of Lauryn Hill based on the array of topics covered in this album. It's talking on so many important and pivotal events and subjects in life, from love to birth to racial equality to dream like traits in life, the title is so aptly given to this. It deserved all it's praise and more than I can give. My favorites that I can remember are I wish, Ordinary Pain, Isn't She Lovely, As, and Another Star. This took me 2 days to finish because it was so long but it was so great. This kind makes some other 5s I've given out look like 3s now.
Wow, this one was long, but still great. Some of the songs were pretty long, but still very enjoyable. I was worried the length would bog the album down, but it really didn't. I don't there's much here that I can say that I didn't say in my other two reviews. Only one Stevie Wonder album left for me on here! I'm excited for that. My favourite songs were Sir Duke, Pastime Paradise, and Ngiculela - Es una historia - I Am Singing.
Stevie wonders a musical genius
So so good yes Gowan ther Stevie pal
Favourite tracks: have a talk with god; contusion; sir duke; I wish; knocks me off my feet; pastime paradise; ordinary pain; isn't she lovely; black man; as
One of the best soul albums of all time, great melody and song writing. On top of that the intricacy of Stevie’s piano playing makes the songs interesting for the listener and challenges your ear to not just listen but understand
Some filler but mostly killer songs in this stellar set. Hugely influential and full of joy.
Absolute classic. Pacing of the album is perfect, love the hits, and have a couple new favorites to add to my playlist.
This album is perfection musically, solid recording and great in every detail!
Looking at the length I was expecting some boring parts but there were none. Every song is musically great and exciting. "As" has to be one of the greatest love songs ever written. It's a bit lengthy for a full active listen but I guess an album that could be split up into two 5 star albums deserves a 5 star rating!
It's Stevie at his finest. How many samples came from this one album?
Man, in 1971, Stevie Wonder released Where I'm Coming From and didn't really let up until 1980's Hotter Than July. That's a full decade of once in a lifetime level albums. This is pretty much the apex of it all. A remarkable run from a remarkable musician.
A remarkable album. Possibly the best ever?
I hate to admit that I was really unhappy to see that this album was an hour and 45 minutes long, and that the first 7-minute track didn't pull me in. Mind you, I've had a lot of music to catch up on, and not being familiar with this album, I didn't know what was coming up. Then it started blowing me away. This is a pretty incredible album with incredible songs, all the way through, with well known favorites and happy discoveries.
As if I could rate this one any other way...
I've had this one in my library for a while but there's a lot here, so I'm always appreciating new things. This is a good one.
How can you be so creative to make 17 albums then create a double album with nearly 2 hours of incredible, beautiful, meaningful songs?! You be Stevie Wonder, that’s how! An extraordinary album!
Legendary. Feel blessed to have seen him live in the action
Album 91 of 1001 Stevie Wonder - Songs in the Key of Life Rating : 5 / 5 Favorite Tracks : Wish / Sir Duke Not much I can add about this one that hasn't already been said. It has been a classic for a long time and has been honored with about any praise I could possibly come up with. A great listen. Great tunes. Great performance. It has an overall feel that is a constant throughout.
Wowowow, extraordinaire du début à la fin, du bon soul/funk boosté au stéroïde en prenant le meilleur des genres qui l'influence.
Yes Please! 5
I feel blasphemous admitting that this isn't my favourite Stevie Wonder album. But I can still say that this is an absolute masterpiece. It feels so cohesive, despite covering several genres and topics over the course of its 105-minute runtime. This is often seen as the end of Stevie's incredible mid '70s run, in which he delivered four or five near-perfect records back to back. But what a way to go out!
This. Is. A. Stonecold. Classic. This album has a grip on me almost like no other. It is so influential in the funk, soul and r&b department. But I feel the first half is the stronger one, with almost all perfect songs. The second one feels a bit more lacklustre, but still, even solid Stevie is better than anything else out there! 9 out of 10
Omg this rules
I often used to discuss new bands and albums with a good friend of mine and he often replied with it's ok but either Stevie Wonder or Steely Dan had done that only much better. This album is full of great tracks, ok Isn't She Lovely is a bit cheesy, but that is far outweighed by Sir Duke and Contusion. This is an album you should definitely listen to
There really isn't anything I can say that has not already been said. Plenty of other reviews have more eloquent, more interesting things to say. Read them, or better yet, listen to this album and decide for yourself.
Stevie is crazy man. Legendary album for good reason. Absolutely on the shortlist of albums you have to hear
På rätt dag är det mycket lätt att tro att det här är den bästa skivan som någonsin gjorts.
It’s Stevie whats not to enjoy?
Bloody masterpiece
Those horns in 'Sir Duke' always get me. I've listened to this album start to finish several times. I don't think it's a perfect album, but it's really good. On the verge of being 4 stars for me, but the songs I like are so good that I have to give it 5 stars.
Wonderful! Sir Duke might be the perfect song. Every song on here is a toe-tapper. Stevie at the height of his power.
I mean this is one of the greatest albums ever recorded. Stevie at his best. So many different styles, so many different themes in the lyrics and yet everything flows. Tremendous album. would give 6 stars if I could
A real gem! A great album. 5/5
Obvious 5
Stone cold classic 5/5
Really nice, didnt know it at all!
4.5 stars. Longer album that is still great and doesn't feel like it drags on, hard to achieve. Plenty of tracks in here ended up getting sampled in the future. Littered with hits and filler is nearly as good. Standouts are "Sir Duke," "I Wish" and "Isn't She Lovely."
Absolute banger
It's crazy that one human being can come up with this amount of amazing music more than a few times.
OUTSTANDING classic
You can hear origins of Prince in several of these songs.
Groovy, funky, amazing
Eeppinen levy ja muodostunut itselle aika tärkeäksi. Stevie kylvää positiivisuutta ja energiaa siihen malliin, että meno yltyy aina tanssiksi.
It's almost a miracle that Stevie managed to craft a 1h45 album that stay interesting and engaging all along the way. An impressive, luminous, groovy, heartfelt and innovative soul masterpiece.
Such an easy 5 star to give. So consistent from front to back and I can’t even comprehend how there are so many hits on this record. Not a single song is bad in my opinion and I would certainly say this is one of my favorite albums of all time. The fact that this is also Stevie Wonder’s 18TH album is mind-boggling.
This album is too long, but it’s also too Stevie to be anything less than a five.
the best 50mins of this is the easiest 5 so far, the worst 50mins is probably a high 4. it averages out to a 5, but i wouldve preferred just a single album. still tho, stevie is stevie
Speaking as a bassist this album is perfect. Sonically it was like a perfectly mixed live album in that it is completely immersive and even at its extensive running time leaves you wanting more. Loved this.
💎
Elite
An incredible double album that doesn’t even come close to overstaying it’s welcome, every song is just fantastic. A perfect record
My only complaint is that the quantity and quality are both so high. Throw a few bad songs on there for once, would ya Steve?
I didn't have high expectations, I'm usually not a fan of "white albums" a la the beatles but woah, this is something else. All killer no filer for 2 hours straight how did the man do it.
all bangers
Oh, come on, I’m trying to be less merciful with my ratings, and then THIS album comes up, and it’s the best since Kid A (my all-time favorite). The audacity to release a double album plus EP as your eighteenth and have there be no filler. It’s hard to choose a highlight, but the one-two punch of ‘As’ and ‘Another Star’ is amazing. An hour and 45 minutes well spent.
Work of art
One of my favourites up there with Sign O the Times and Hard Days Night. Perfect culmination of Stevie’s golden album era. Excellent pop, rock, funk, soul, ballads, jazz - and he often plays all the instruments! Magnificent. Only small criticism would be that a few songs are a bit too long, but not “As”, which is perfect!
Amazing. Every time I think the album is a certain way, it surprises me. A timeless classic. Many artists would kill for their best song to be as good as the worst song on this album.
Heard this at the start of lockdown, and it blew me away. Ultimately led me to thinking about what other albums I'd missed and started on the 1001.
Excellent album that actually lives up to its pretentious title. Stevie Wonder is a top-notch musician, and every song is a jam.
phenomenal
This is the best album of all time and I'll hear no arguments. If you can't down with this, then I don't know how to help you.
such beauty, and joy, and depth, and craftsmanship, and adventure. can't imagine any way this could be better.
Pure class
My first listen, which really surprised. It has a Beatles feel (George Martin that you?) with the strings and horns in songs like village ghetto land, but then effortlessly falls back into more predictable (as a casual Stevie listener) funk and soul tracks.
listened to again one of the greatest albums of all time
There are albums out there that I enjoy more than Songs in the Key of Life, at least 50 for me, in fact. There are albums I return to more often through the years. There are artists and other albums that bear greater personal value to me. But through all that, if you were to profess to me that you didn't find Songs in the Key of Life to be a good album at the very least, it would cause me to immediately distrust every opinion you held on anything regarding music ever. And there are maybe only a handful of other albums I can say that about. This is masterclass. Don't mind the the 100min+ runtime; there is not one wasted moment on this breathtaking excursion through this musical celebration. It's in the National Recording Registry for good reason. It remains my favorite record of the soul legend.
So wildly impressive. Every song was a bop and a half- with a surprising amount of variety for such a lengthy album, the songs felt cohesive but distinct. Favs? Summer soft, ordinary pain, another star and ebony eyes. I could listen to this album again and again and again. How did he make so many songs. How was this his 18th album and such a banger. I love this man. Big big big fan. It’s a tough one, but so far Jeff Buckley’s Grace is in 3rd, Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is in 2nd and Songs in the Key of Life is the best album so far.
I mean the first song that a cappella comes in and you know you’re in for something so special. The gangsta paradise sample is so badass Hahhaha IT WAS AMAZING AND INCREDIBLE HRD AGREE WITH TAYLOR. HARD PRESSED TO FIND A BETTER ALBUM
Amazing musicianship, writing, singing and production. So faultless.
Wonderful album with far reaching influence
Wonderful album
I needed Songs In The Key of Life more today than I thought I did. Most of us do. Who can't listen to "Love's in Need of Love Today" and not, on some level. feel a need to weep? Every time I come back to this album, I learn something new. On his earlier albums, you'll find plenty of incredible songs, great arrangements. Key changes that make you question if you've ever really played music before. But this album is where it all takes flight. There's something for everyone in this album, which is why its appeal must be so great. Songs about early love, lust, mature love, being a parent. Everything through this lens of an incredible songwriter, who also happens to have some of the greatest musicians of the day playing alongside him! This album is simultaneously an album to find new love to, an album to appreciate what you have, an album to put on in the background of your day, and one (for the songwriters and musicians out there) to study, for its influence is profound. Heck, is this the only double album *ever* that I love, all the way through? That alone is a feat. 5/5
I’m now paying child support to 4 women purely because of this album. Packed full of bangers, back to back sexy tunes. 10/10
Was apprehensive at first when I saw the album was 1hr 45mins long but after listening to it I lost track of time. Some really good tracks on there some highlights being “Have a talk with god”, “Pastime Paradise” and “As”. This genre as a whole (R&B?) is pretty popular with me so every song was a fun listen, but those three stood out to me the most Wasn’t a single song I wanted to skip and have added the album to my rotation so no reason not to give 5 stars
Amazing album from start to finish. I had high expectations and it surpassed them. The new songs that stood out to me were; I Wish, Contusion, Pastime Paradise. I cant believe Pastime Paradise is the backing for Gangsters Paradise Up there with Slim Shady LP for best albums thus far. I cant get over the sheer size of high quality content.
I have heard this once or twice before 2 or 3 years ago so this isn't my first impression. In my opinion, Stevie Wonder is a genius. This is such a genuinely great album (although it is long - I checked the original tracklist on Wikipedia and just listened to that). Sir Duke is such a great song, a genuine classic. Isn't She Lovely is also obviously great. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed I Wish and Summer Soft. Also TOTALLY FORGOT about Pastime Paradise, Coolio had no right to get mad at Weird Al for Amish Paradise LOL This isn't necessarily something I would always be in the mood to seek out to listen to, but objectively it's fantastic. I'm torn between 4 and 5, but I don't think it's fair to mark it down to 4 just because it's not my favourite genre.
Wonderful!
The world needs Stevie’s sweetness more than ever as well as his commitments to love and tunefulness. So much tenderness and funkiness, and such extraordinary quality in such quantity. There’s almost a prog rock level of expertise and excess to it.
In light of Stevie Wonder’s opus, it’s amazing to think that he started in the Motown factory line style version of music production. Stevie’s sprawling album covers just about every thing from love, to fatherhood, and to social issues of the time. Musically this album is a journey through soul, funk, R&B, and elements of jazz including fusion. It is incredible that an album of commercial music trusts its audience enough to throw in rhythmic changes, exploratory modal passages, and boasts a running time of 1 hour and 45 minutes. There is not a single misplaced note on this album.
Okay, I'm going to say it - this is the best album I have heard so far on this list and it's going to be near damn impossible to find something better that will also surprise me at the same time. I think I was born too late to fully appreciate younger version of Stevie Wonder, but I take full responsibility of that now and I'm happy to make amends. "Songs in the Key of Life" is simply amazing. No need to write down the songs that Ixreally liked, because I would have to copy the full track list. I will just mention the biggest surprises, which are "Pastime Paradise" and "As". First of all, I had no idea Coolio didn't come up with his own beat, but it kind of make sense - Stevie is just too good. Also, the lyrics are much more hitting, although the cover wasn't that bad. As for "As", the song is just so beautiful. The choir, the voice modulation by Stevie and more importantly amazing guitars and bass line make it my instant favourite song from 70s. Moments like this is why I'm doing the challenge.
so sick
FIRE THROUGH AND THROUGH. ABSOLUTE EXCELLENCE OF SONGWRITING, SWAGGER, AND PERFORMATIVE MASTERY.
The Magnam Opus of Mr. Wonder. I get it.
What a wonderful album!!!! felt very happy listening to it. This man is so talented. I can't believe that I was blessed with this being my first of 1001 albums hereeee. There is so much heart and soul here, it's quite tangible. The vocals and instrumentals are so fantastic I LOVEEEEE
Best album ever ❤️
Really good! Enjoyed the whole album front to back!
Long album, lots of potential here that I can't fully appreciate in just one day. I can tell every song is good, not sure yet which will click and be great. Time will tell but I'm not sure any are as good as Living For the City. Favorites: Pastime Paradise, Village Ghetto Land
Love Needs Love Today
Wonderful, but quite a long album!
Immediate five stars - I know this is going to be superb because a) it's Stevie Wonder and b) it's Stevie Wonder's best album. Important things to note - this is an INCREDIBLY important electronic album. Yes, this album is chock to the brim full of synth. Wonder basically took all of the latest bleeding edge stuff - literally hundreds of thousands of dollars worth - and made an incredibly funky album using synths. This is also one of the most influential funk albums, soul albums, pop albums - it's just, absolutely 100% deserving of its accolades.
This album should be included on any top 100 list, much less top 1001. It's an exclamation of consummate lyrical and musical expression. Simply put, this one is absolutely Wonder-ful.
Great timing. Was just gifted this on Vinyl. A classic, this is what this list is for. 4.5/5 I had no idea Gangster's Paradise was sampled from this album
This was an excellent album. Funky, topical, classic songs, songs I've never heard. Just overall a great listen. Sir Duke is one of the best songs, Isn't she lovely is another classic, I wish I'd funky and is a great song. Pastime paradise was sampled for rap in the 90s. This was a great album overall
An absolute marvel
This is my first album that I am listening to with this website. I am happy that it is a Stevie Wonder song as I have never listened to a full album by this artist before. I am trying to listen to the album with full focus & write my thoughts, so we shall see how this goes. Disc 1 Thoughts: Sir Duke is my favorite song of the disc. It is just absolutely incredible. Pastime Paradise threw me for a loop cause it is a current trending song that I think somebody remixed Stevie Wonder's song. I want to listen to the remixed song cause I think it would be nice. It is absolutely crazy how Contusion is just full of instrumentals. This song is def getting added to my study playlist. Village Ghetto Land is just a weird song (mix-match with the name & the vibes), but I enjoyed it. Disc 2 Thoughts: Isn't She Lovely is a BOP that I have previously listened to. Joy Inside My Tears is so far the saddest song & it got me in my feels a lil bit. It was longer, but I enjoyed it. I knew that there was going to be some sort of pro-black/black equality song & Black Man did not disappoint. As is the love song that I needed in my life. I want this song played at my wedding! Whole Albums Thoughts: Personally, I am wayy more into upbeat & faced paced songs currently, so my favorite songs reflects that. This album is a perfect way to start this because it is something different than I normally listen to, but I still absolutely love it :) I love the upbeat funk, instruments, & music voice!
Litt kjipt å måtte rate denne etter bare en dag, da dette lange albumet fortjener mye mer lytting
What a brilliant album. Stevie Wonder - so influential. What a talent.
New to me. Love it.
Only bangers
Deserves the 5 stars. My first time hearing this album. This man can make true music that gets to the soul. Even at 20 songs, it kept my attention and impressed me throughout
For the first couple tracks, I had to ask myself, why is this the album that so many associate with Stevie as his best...and then the next 10 tracks showed me. Stevie is incomparable. He has more talent in his pinky finger than most musicians will ever obtain. He has the most soulful voice, the catchiest rhythms, and the most iconic sound of all motown artists. I don't know if this was originally a double album, but the version I heard was, and I figured when I hit disc two, it would start to even out, but the thing kept crushing with Isn't She Lovely, Black Man, and As. So many artists owe their whole being to this man. He can do no wrong. This album gives me the chills. Genius!
What can one say about this album. Probably one of the greatest pieces of music created. Daring Harmoies, sweet soulfull ballads and melodies to melt any ice. This honestly feels like soul and Motowns ultimate form the absolute pinnacle. Highlights Pastime Paradise, Isn't she Lovely, I wish and Love's in Need for Today. Truly a gem of work Isn't she Lovely makes me wish to have a little infant to sing to
Great album with some of the best songs ever written. A peaceful, uplifting journey that does have a couple of fillers. The great songs and the overall beauty lets it squeak in to 5 star territory
Top Album durch und durch
Classic
I really think this is the best album of all time. It's literally just so perfect.
What's to say? This album is so great that I didn't even mind it being a double LP + an EP. Some of his greatest hits as well as some that should be greatest hits. I didn't want it to end! Always happy to spend time with Steven Wonder
A perfect blend of upbeat and happy vibes (sir duke) and slower and sad vibes (black man). The first few songs have religious themes but they never feel preachy. All the upbeat and happy lyrics and instrumentals never feel corny. The album's pacing is excellent considering it is 1 hour and 45 mins long. Classic songs like sir duke, pastime paradise and Isn't she lovely stand the test of time. Considering the themes of being happy and the celebration of all parts of life the songs and their lyrics never feel repetitive as Stevie wonder examines all aspects of life and his own happiness giving it a personal and genuine touch another reason why the happy-go-luck vibes don't come off as corny but heartfelt. All the instrumentals feel different and fresh and not repetitive as Steave wonder mixes jazz, funk, Latin, and soul. Also, the harmonic solos are 11/10. The only thing I would say is the first half/side A is stronger than the 2nd half/side b as a whole. Rating: 8/10 fav: sir duke, pastime paradise, ebony eyes, and Isn't she lovely least favs: If it's Magic and All Day Sucker
I didn’t realize this album had classics on it like “Isn’t She Lovely”. Also “Pastime Paradise” being the source sample of Gangsta Paradise. Werk
Probably my favourite album of all time
Although I’ll probably always turn first to Inner Visions or Talking Book for my classic Stevie fix, good god there are some classic bangers on this wildly ambitious, genre-spanning album. Right from the off, and right to the end. As a double album its always going to be accused of being a bit bloated and filler, and well, there is some. I can live without Contusion, a technically fantastic freakout that feels oddly out of place here on an album ostensibly made up of many of the most popular songs of Stevie's ridiculously high quality canon, With Contusion I forget I’m not listening to Magma or something. So, when I say I can live without it, I just kind of want to have the Stevie freakout album separate. The only songs that aren't completely five star smashed out of the park are maybe Ordinary Pain, and If Its Magic. But this is followed by two of the greatest circa-8 minute songs ever made, As and Another Star, neither of which feel a fraction of their length. I don't think I've ever heard the EP before, but Saturn and All Day Sucker are up to this standard, the other two I can take or leave. I’m splitting hairs because the vast majority is killer and this is obviously getting five stars.
SOOOO SO SO COOL очень атмосферное очень круто очень понравилось, да очень много "очень"
5/5 - Phenomenal
Heel divers. Topper
The keyboards on this record sound great and Stevie's distinctive voice does as well. Top-tier songcraft is supported by lush arrangements that keep revealing more complexity after repeated listens.
5/5. Hard to not like this album. A perfect one front to back. No other notes needed.
Stevie Wonder är ändå smått otrolig
Stevie Wonder is one of music's true geniuses, and possibly my favourite singer ever. This isn't my favourite album of his, that's Innervisions, but impossible to give this less than 5. A true visionary. Pun intended.
I am shocked at how much I enjoy this album. It is an absolute tour de force that I had no idea was so good. Every bit the equal of What's Going On or Stevie's own Innervisions. And epic in scope and variety, almost 2 hours of music that sparkles throughout, with its varying styles and moods. Many of the songs clock in at 6 or 7 minutes, but somehow never wear out their welcome. Disc 1 has more hits but it also has some beautifully arranged lesser known songs that are uniformly beautiful. Side 2 starts off with Isn't She Lovely which I had previously considered just radio shmaltz but it is in reality one of the most beautiful love songs from a father to his child that I know of. There is just not much to criticize in this epic album. 5 stars
The opener is a gospel tinged ballad which belies what's coming, while it drifts along the rest of the double album pretty much explodes, with some exceptions. But then this is a massive double, as only the 70's could deliver (other than The 60's contribution the incomparable White Album) and he uses this broad canvas to traverse so many genres it is astonishing in its scope and scale. Have a Talk is psychedelic, Village Ghetto pure glissando, Confusion sounds like Stanley Clarke's template for School Days, then the first two smash hits. The bassline on I Wish, nothing needs to be said, and while Sir Duke is great and a lot of fun I do think it unleashed Harry Connick jnr, Michael Buble et al, but hey whatareyouguunado...It's great to go back to Pastime Paradise unsullied by Coolio, what a sound! Summer Soft is simply beautiful and would probably garner more attention on another album, ditto Ordinary Pain. Isn't She Lovely, while a little on the American mawkish side (they can't help themselves) is funky as fuck, would have made a cracking Stevie instrumental. That said, smartarse, I bet we all can't get it out of heads...then he hits us with the exquisite If It's Magic, the best bit of pop music harp since She's Leaving Home. Blimey, still six tracks to go...As....I don't have the words to properly express how much that melody moves me...who is this guy! Look enough, this is what we listen to pop music for, the sum of the whole is greater than the parts, Allah Akbar...wallah this record could have this happy atheist convert to Islam as it and the Fabs are evidence of a possible deity...but then I'm reminded of David Gray so there you go..
Let’s get one thing straight - Innervisions is definitely Stevie’s finest album. It’s been decades since I’ve played Songs In The Key Of Life from go to whoa ( I remember one review at the time of its release with the headline Songs In The Key Of Money, referring to the record deal he’d just signed with Motown). The thing about Stevie was that as far back as the late 60’s, he could write songs that my parents generation would love (people born in the 1920’s) - think My Cherie Amour, Yester-Me etc. This side of his huge talent peaked with For Once In My Life. Between 1973 & 1975 I worked weekends in an RSL club to support myself through Uni. I could not count the number of 3rd-rate tenors I saw sing that song in the club auditorium. I’ve always thought that there was too much of that material on this album - Sir Duke, Isn’t She Lovely (glad I’d moved on from the RSL in time to avoid endless interpretations of that), If It’s Magic etc. I was wrong. Unlike a lot of bloated double albums, there’s gold on this one. I’d forgotten how good Joy Inside My Tears, Black Man, I Wish, If It’s Magic & Pastime Paradise were. There’s funk here that I’d forgotten about. The only filler is the 4-track 7” EP included in the package - it didn’t need one. A great record.
Stevie Wonder at the height of his imperial period. a double album, plus bonus EP, will always raise the question of whether some judicious editing might have strengthened the overall album experience somewhat, but it is really hard to fault this record. Stevie won his 3rd best album Grammy in 4 years with this, and it is probably the peak of his career. there's a some good material on Hotter Than July, but it is hard to think that any of his other albums after this are really worth a listen. (To quote Barry in High Fidelity "Rob, top five musical crimes perpetuated by Stevie Wonder in the '80s and '90s. Go. Sub-question: is it in fact unfair to criticize a formerly great artist for his latter day sins, is it better to burn out or fade away?") But those are quibbles for another day. I prefer the funkier, more upbeat material on this record to the ballads, which tend towards to overly sentimental. But the playing and production are exquisite, and I would listen to Stevie Wonder sign the phone book. Stevie Wonder is one of the all time great singer/songwriter/musicians/producers/harmonica players, and this is his master work. Did he really know where to go from here? Do any of us?
Almost every Double Album has a few skips, some filler shit that only exist because the artist needed enough material to fill up two entire albums. This might be the exception, the rare Double Album where every track is essential. There's an argument to be made that anyone could take their 12 favorite songs from this album and sequence them as one single album, and that album could stand as one of the best ever. But cutting anything almost seems sacrilege, and it's one of the best albums ever as it is. We don't appreciate Stevie Wonder enough, especially his insane run of masterpieces through the 1970's. I still get a kick thinking about Stevie Wonder fooling the world by pretending to be blind. If there's anyone who could pull something like that off, it's the mastermind who painted this canvas. Even if this isn't your favorite Stevie Wonder album, there's no denying it's his Magnum Opus.
Sir Duke was my first real introduction to Stevie Wonder (minus superstition) in high school but I had never listened to this album before. In a 100-minute album, I never got tired of any of the music or felt that it was overlong. It was great from start to finish and joy inside my tears was awesome too
Wii Sports music + Gangsters paradise sample
Masterfully blended. Great album from college days
too many bangers to list
Copado y chill. No sabia que Pastime Paradise era de este cantente/album xd
sisisi :)
Absolutely fantastic.
One of the best of all time
Sometimes a relisten is worth, 3hr meeting at work, decent vibe, let’s try to read again
Una maravilla de disco. La primera la había escuchado en cover de Charly García. La segunda es psicodélica La tercera es un synth de maravilla!
I normally think double and triple albums are ridiculously self-indulgent. This is one of the rare exceptions! All killer, No filler.
Definitely a masterpiece. Words can't state how much I love this album right now, it is so consistent for an album this length, has so many of Stevie's best songs, and still sounds remarkably polished all the way through. What else can I really say except it's obviously a phenomenal album. An essential record
What's not to like about this one?
‘72-‘76 was an incredible run.
If you know, you know.
Probably the best album of all time.
Full of fantastic feel-good songs. Really enjoyed listening to this album.
I've been waiting for this album to pop up and am very pleased it happened so early! There is no question that this album is 5/5 and I'm sure I won't say anything that hasn't been said about it before. Sir Duke is 1 of the best songs ever. It sounds as fresh today as I'm sure it did when it was released. Love's In Need Of Love is a great way to start, a sign of things to come. Stevie's voice is at his best in Village Ghetto Land and accentuated with the strings arrangement. Sir Duke into I Wish is so phenomenal, probably the best 2 song set ever recorded! Only to be followed by Knocks Me Off My Feet! Those 3 songs by themselves is enough to garner 5/5! And then the album keeps going!! Pastime Paradise is strong and of course was famously sampled by Coolio (RIP). Isn't She Lovely is another example of musical perfection. If It's Magic is another great vessel for Stevie's voice and it's simplicity is a nice contrast between more complex arrangements and leads perfectly to As! This is the back end anchor of the album leading to Another Star which is another example of the albums musical diversity. Saturn is definitely underrated and Ebony Eyes is infectiously catchy. While I don't love every song on the album, there are so many good ones that after finishing I went ahead and listened a second time. This really is 1 of the best albums of all time and I say that even though it is not my preferred genre. The complexity of the arrangements, diversity of instruments and musical styles, and Stevie's tremendous vocals continue to hold up even a half century later!!
The only bad thing about this album is how long it is. Too long a runtime for today’s ears. However, it would be impossible to remove any specific song because they are all of such high quality. The production is one of a kind, his vocal performance, his unique melodies, his hands on all the different sounds. Definitely his mangum opus and a benchmark for music making. This is my second listen and I can see now contemporary artists like Frank Ocean and Kanye West through his impact.
Great piece of music! I'm humiliated for someday being afraid or disliking Stevie Wonder songs. This is a very diverse album with many music styles and fun music.
Ég gæti skrifað ritgerð um þessa plötu. Stutta útgáfan: Hún er æði! Stevie er æði! Knocks me off my feet er fallegasta ástarlag allra tíma! Don't @ me.
Masterpiece! 1 hour and 45 minutes of pure class. Everything in this album is amazing, his voice, the production, the lyrics. I was already a small fan of his work but never took the time for the full album. It is hard to pick favourite songs, there are many worth mentioning but I will pick 3. Favourite songs: - Sir Duke - Isn’t she lovely - As
Beautiful album. Can't think of a thing wrong with it. 5/5
I'm listening to this record whilst sitting on a busy road, out in the pissing rain. I've been here all night. I like to creep out at midnight and shag cars up their exhaust pipes. Today, my dick swelled so much that it is stuck and I've had to wait for the fire brigade to come and release me. The humiliation intensifies my pleasure.
If it's good enough for Coolio and Big Willie Style, it's good enough for me. Absolute masterpiece. Well in Stevie lad.
a vibe
Stevie Wonder is an artist I've heard about many times, but until now never really listened. However, his reputation as a pop music pioneer is well-deserved, and the things he was doing on this 1976 album with elements such as synthesisers is really impressive. I can totally see the influence that his work must have had on the music of today, and this album was just a treat to listen to. Favourite: Sir Duke
I mean I've listened to this album many times, it's one of my favorite. My father introduced Stevie to me, and I've loved it ever since. It's catchy, heartwarming, easy to listen, memorable lines & melody. It's a great introduction to soul music. It's a classic album for sure.
1st September 2022 Listened throughout the day while working from home. Chilled and picked Jen up from the airport in the evening. This is amazing, it’s such a rainbow of an album. Feels like it tells the story of the black experience, but a true life story full of colour and joy as well as depth and sadness.
Brilliant album from start to finish.
I was really looking forward to listening to this album. Started slower than I expected, I’m used to big strong songs opening an album. Tons of hits that I recognized. Some of the tunes were longer than I expected with more extended jams than are typical these days. The fusion tunes were a surprise. The variety of styles was a surprise as well. I look forward to exploring more SW in the future.
Very good
This was my first time listening to this album, but I knew all the songs.
Album of the century. Banger after banger after banger.
Sometimes I give an album five stars just because I love it. Sometimes it's because it's such a high quality piece of musical art. Sometimes it's because of its historical importance or because it's the best, most representative work by a bonafide musical genius. "Songs In The Key Of Life" is all of these things. It might be the best album I've gotten so far, it might even best album of all time.
I don't think I need to explain much here about this album. It's an absolute influential masterpiece in world music history and Stevie Wonder's Magnum Opus, Even though it's already his 18th(!) album, this has him playing, singing and writing at the peak of his creativity. Before it all crumbles apart and we go into the 80's. Absolutely packed with masterpieces like Sir Duke, I Wish, Pastime Paradise and If It's Magic.
Stevie is such a freak - fantastic.
One of the most ambitious and heartfelt artistic statements ever recorded. It covers so much emotional ground it's staggering. After 17 studio albums, this is Stevie's creative supernova before he became a neutron star.
Everything about this album. The instrumentation, the emotion, the singing, everything. This album is perfect. I can see myself listening to this album in every situation in my life, on a walk, working, etc. I think this is a TEXTBOOK 10/10 album. I think this is the best album we've had so far in this, right beside Ágætis Byrjun. EASY 10/10
Epic
A jam from front to back. Forgot how many samples came from this record. "Pastime Paradise" = Gangsta's paradise. Every song had me nodding my head. Stevie is a goat
Ubicaba cosas sueltas de Stevie Wonder, pero no tenía ni las más remota idea de lo prolífico y exitoso que fue. Este disco es una muestra de ello. Un disco con 21 rolas y más de 100 minutos de buena música, muy variada y muy bien hecha. Obviamente destacan las muy conocidas: Sir Duke y Isn’t She Lovely, pero también hay otras joyas como Black Man y Ebony Eyes. Sorpresa extra con Pastime Paradise y aprender que existe un muy famoso cover.
What an outstanding album. I’d never listened to it the whole way though and it’s beautiful, uplifting, wonderful.
I almost convinced myself this isn't a 5/5 because it's too long but nah, fuck that. This is 104 minutes of straight up good vibes. That might be an intimidating length, but once you get into the zone, it'll be the shortest 104 minutes of your life. Stevie's the man.
Love it!
Wow! What an album! Too long, but too good
LOLZ. Like you need to ask.
I loved this album so much, this has really got me into listening to a lotta stevie wonder.
Brilliant album. Not listened before but loved it.
Damn this was a great listen. I forget just how many great songs are in his collection, many of them on this album
Prefs: Love's In Need Of Love Today, Have a Talk With God, Village Ghetto Land, Confusion, Sir Duke, I Wish, Pastime Paradise, Summer Soft, Ordinary Pain, Isn't She Lovely, Black Man, Ngiculela – Es Una Historia – I Am Singing, As, Another Star, Saturn Moins pref: Easy Goin' Evening (My Mama's Call)
Never heard this one before. Incredibly solid.
Legendarisk album - harmonisk, vanvittig vokal, originalt
I'm not generally a fan of double albums because they start to feel tedious and I don't always have 2 hours of uninterrupted listening time to fully appreciate them. But goddamn, Stevie provides ample variety tonally, musically, sonically, and lyrically throughout that the hour and forty-five minute runtime never gets stale. I think almost every single song on this album has been sampled, imitated, or borrowed from in some way, it's just such a massive supernova of influence! Conceptually, you think "life" is a very broad topic, but damn if Stevie doesn't find a way to hit on every universally relatable facet of it in these songs. Everything about this album works, it is an immaculate listening experience and an absolute tour de force from one of the all-time greatest musicians to ever live.
This album is pretty close to being perfect, and is a strong contender for best double album ever. It radiates beauty in a way you wish all music could do. Even in its most serious moments, Songs in the Key of Life has a brightness and a warmth that is incredibly engaging. The album showcases Stevie Wonder's unique musical gifts and musical point of view with such depth, but always with an ear toward what is entertaining. The songs are gorgeously crafted, joyful, confident, heartfelt, soulful and affirming. And oh yeah, the album is simply great fun. I absolutely love it. Fave Songs (All songs, from most to least favorite): As, I Wish, Sir Duke, Isn't She Lovely, Love's in Need of Love Today, Another Star, Black Man, Joy Inside My Tears, Ordinary Pain, Knocks Me Off My Feet, All Day Sucker, Pastime Paradise, Saturn, Summer Soft, If It's Magic, Village Ghetto Land, Ngiculela – Es Una Historia – I Am Singing, Ebony Eyes, Contusion, Have a Talk With God, Easy Goin' Evening (My Mama's Call)
maybe the greatest album ever made