Fulfillingness' First Finale

The first time I listened to this I was riding in the front passenger seat on a road trip, tripping balls on mushrooms. It is, to date, one of my all-time favorite records.

10/10 how the fuck do you not like Stevie Wonder? the man has contributed some of the greatest albums on earth to humanity

Can't believe I overlooked this album for so long. The guy who say to listen to Wonder's albums chronically are correct over the ones who just say to listen to Innervisions or Songs in the Key of Life. This album is fantastic. Doesn't have any hits, but these songs are pure genius. It just sounds incredible, with unconventional recording techniques that somehow manage to excel with the theme and Wonder's style. It's still distinctively soul, but it's really atmospheric, and you can hear the decades of influence these songs would have on neo-soul from the late 90s to modern age. Not to mention the diversity of these tracks. We go from the echoey emotional "Too Shy To Say" to the funky "Boogie on Reggae Woman", and neither sound like anything else from its time, yet both are fantastic, and that transition does not sound out-of-place. And who the hell plays the harmonica in a funk song? Who does that? Stevie Wonder, and he's been doing that since the 60s. It's so high-pitched but I'll be damned it works. And then what comes after that? I wish I knew music theory to talk about these songs. All I know is that it's weird and highly unconventional but still identifiable and sounds really good, like the Beatles. There's something that sticks out to me about every song, whether cool or unusual and yet it's aesthetically pleasing. It's odd how this is probably considered the weakest of his classic era, but I still consider this is a perfect entry. The only complaint is the lack of star tracks to tie it all together, but the two lead singles come close. Favorites: Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away, Boogie On Reggae Woman, Creepin, They Won't Go When I Go, Bird of Beauty

I love Stevie Wonder and I feel this album is underrated in his catalog. Goes down easy all while making some genuinely heartfelt and poignant statements. No small feat. I used to put "They won't go when I go" on mixtapes and we'd get high and listen to it in silence and it would give us chills. Stevie is the real deal.

Jazz people love to say how great Stevie Wonder is at harmonisation and songwriting. Alas, I am not a jazzman, nor – it seems – constitutionally able to get through one of these songs unbored. More like Stevie Natural Occurrence!

a little sesame street for me

Our second album from Stevie, and it's another great one! So many funky instrumentals here, with unusual rhythms and instrumental runs. "Boogie On Reggae Woman" is just otherworldly. As an album, not as grandiose or monumental as Song in the Key of Life, but really great nonetheless. I'll be returning to quite a few on here, they sound unlike anything I've heard before. Favorite tracks: Boogie On Reggae Woman, Bird of Beauty, You Haven't Done Nothin', Too Shy to Say, Please Don't Go. Album art: Absolutely fantastic art, wow. The piano key staircase, all the shadows and colors, this is really awesome. And I love the nod to the Grammys right there on Stevie's cheek, don't forget that this guy won like 300 Grammys in a span of about 10 years. 4/5

I think this the weakest of the albums from Stevie's "classic period", so it suffers a bit in being compared to them. Compared to most other albums from most other artists, it's outstanding, but compared to his body of work, it's doesn't hit the same highs. For 1001 Albums, I think the average person would understand Stevie Wonder's brilliance with Innervisions and Songs In the Key of Life, so having four albums represented seems like overkill. The big singles both work: Boogie on Reggae Woman is slinky and funky, while You Haven't Done Nothin does have a Superstition vibe to it. Heaven is 10 Zillion Years Away is also a standout. The slower tracks don't have the same immediacy - Creepin isn't bad, but Too Shy to Say is pretty dull excepting the steel guitar from Sneaky Pete Kleinow. Again, I like this album, but it's never going to be my Stevie Wonder album of choice.

Compositional greatness unmatched, but the delicate baroque palette means the songs simply don't jam, and that reduces his generational reach, which is when he's at his best. Very pretty though.

Beautiful, happy music. I feel like music is rarely just purely happy, but Stevie Wonder always hits it right.

It's hard to listen to Stevie and not feel good. His voice is one of the best and the message in his music is so positive, even when it's a slower tune you still need to move along with it. Incredible artist, and this was great to peek into his lesser known stuff.

So talented and soulful. There are so many weaker copies of SW out there, it's refreshing to hear the real thing.

Released between two absolute 5 star crackers (Innervisions and Songs in the key of life). First few songs seem light weight sentimental ditties, and it takes a few songs before the funky grooviness starts. Then you realise that they’ve all got under your skin and you’re humming away to some lovely love songs. Subsequent listens double down on all this and before you know it your listening to a classic Stevie album. Just a pity it falls between such giant corkers!

It’s slower than I prefer. Musically it’s there, the production is good.

I'm surprised I missed out on this one back in my wider music nerd phase, but I'm sad I did - this was extremely good. "They Won't Go When I Go" is an absolute classic.

Excellent album. I'm not sure it's aged well though. The cheesy keyboards were probably amazing in 1974, but not so much now. If I were reviewing this in the '70s or even '80s, I might give it 5 stars, but... I hate to hold a trend or "fashion" against an album, but if yodeling was really popular for a few years, it's simply not going to age well, and I can't ignore it. A decent example is the last song, "Please Don't Go". It's a good song, but the "bass keyboard" hasn't aged well. Ever since the '70s, that line would have just been played on a bass guitar. It doesn't change that it's a good song, but production and implementation does matter. Still, 4 stars.

Fav: Too Shy To Say Least Fav: Boogie On Reggae Woman

When I die im donating my eyes to Stevie Wonder 🙏

It was good but not great.

Overrated and repetitive

Mostly super boring.

I tend to score Stevie's albums on the strength of the iconic hits with their ground-breaking keyboard licks while holding my nose for the syrupy ballads. In this case "Boogie on Reggae Woman" is great, "You Haven't Done Nothin" borrows heavily from "Superstition" but there are too many over produced ballads.

Surprisingly not so good.

What a sound. just incredible, playing and songwriting. ALL WITH NO EYES!

It’s Stevie Wonder, what else needs to be said.

Nice background music

Stevie at his peak

Every song is perfect and has beautiful singing.

Simply “Wonder”ful

From what I've gathered, this album isn't one of his favourites amongst fans. I find this album to be very underrated in that case because I really enjoyed this one. It's warm and upbeat and his voice is unsurprisingly amazing. I was deadset on giving this a four and I was trying to think of reasons to mark it down but none really came. Too samey? But I didn't get bored of it. Cheesy lyrics? Probably 80% of music has dumb lyrics. It's just a really solid, easy-listening album and it will most likely become a comfort album of mine They Won't Go When I Go is my favourite track

I really enjoyed it a lot very upbeat and fun

A masterpiece in Stevie's incredible 70s run. The man was connected to something deeper than we'll ever know. It just flows out of this album. The most 5/5 of all time.

Loved this album. But then it is part of the rhythms and sounds of my late teens. Favorite songs were Boogie on Reggae Woman, and You Haven't Done Nothin'. Both had great and layered intros, and were excellent to the end.

Si he criticado álbumes por ser muy planos y monótonos, este álbum tiene tantos matices y contrastes que no puedo sino darle 5. Pasa del "bugui" a una oración, luego a una canción re erótica y luego a una épica. Lo disfruté demasiado, y se nota que Stevie Wonder lo disfrutó más haciéndolo. Lo escucharía completo otra vez mañana. Tremendo.

I LOVE STEVIE!!!!!!!

I was blown away by this. It makes me excited to listen to the other Stevie albums. What a genius.

alegria vai cantar carnavaaaaal

A good reminder that I should listen more often to Stevie Wonder. What a musical genius. This isn't his best record, but plenty of great songs and lots of variety in musical styles.

Stevie is always a good listen.

Will I listen to it again? Probably not. Did I really really like it? Yes.

94% Best: Smile Please; Boogie On Reggae Woman; Creepin'; You Haven't Done Nothin'; It Ain't No Use Must-Hear? Definitely

One of my favorites of all time. Can feel its spirit.

For how legendary Stevie Wonder is, I've never sat through an album of his before. All I can say is wow, what an album. These songs are layered with musical nuance, great singing, and deeply emotional moments. Smile Please opens the album on a high note and Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away sounds like very moving gospel. There aren't really amy low points here, with my other favorites being Too Shy to Say, Creepin', and Bird of Beauty. Loved it.

stevie wonder's music is consistently good; his jazzy, carefree ballads and dance tunes can make anyone feel good after a rough day. he's a true virtuoso of sorts when it comes to composing; i often find myself grooving along with the tracks and being blown away by his mesmerizing hooks and accompaniments... it should come to nobody's surprise that even if someone can't physically see anything, let alone an instrument or a sheet of music, they can still understand music on such a deep level.

Everybody has a favourite Stevie Wonder album, right? The only mistake this album has for me is that it's not Talking Book.

Day 6 - Fulfillingness' First Finale I was surprised to see this Stevie album on this list, and I didn't know any songs before listening. But it was a great album! I loveeee his voice so much and most of the beats were really fun to jam to. The album flows so easily. 'You Haven't Done Nothin'' reminds me of 'Superstition'. 5/5! Standout songs: Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away, Too Shy to Say, Boogie on Reggae Woman, and Creepin'

This is beautiful, the sound of the 70's for me. Wonder's vocals are silky and soulful and my favorite part is how the background singers so perfectly complement and add depth in interesting ways to every track.

One of his very best. 4.5 stars. Rounding up to 5.

Absolute Stevie banger! (10) ★★★★★

My second favourite Stevie Wonder album. Nice listen for sure!

Untouchable brilliance! His best album.

Great

Favourite songs: You Haven't Done Nothin', Heaven is 10 Zillion Light Years Away, Boggie On Reggae Woman, Please Don't Go Least favourite songs: They Won't Go When I Go 5/5

This album is packed with amazing songs. Stevie Wonder’s voice never sounded better to me. My favorite is "Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away". I think it has such an optimistic viewpoint and is uplifting with a strong statement of faith. Beautiful. https://tinyurl.com/47btbp65

Another stupendous soulful, hopeful collection from Stevie. This guy really wrote some of the best songs of all time. Most of the tracks on this album are not that, but definitely a 5 star collection of rythmn and blues for sure.

Smooth

Had to give this one a relisten because it was so good. I think this is the second 5 star album rated on this list that I hadn't heard before. This album rules

Pure genius.

Exquisite.

I still thought it was incredibly fun, albeit having more serious themes than other Stevie Wonder albums. In particular, They Won’t Go When I Go and closing on such a high energy bop like Please Don’t Go were highlights for me. And You Haven’t Done Nothin is probably the most jam-worthy critique of a president I’ve listened to. Stevie’s voice is smooth like butter. His expertise of the piano is so apparent in what he does. Everything is intentional, and it’s so groovy.

pretty nice would smash to

Never really listened to Stevie Wonder. This is a great Sunday morning album

Brilliant. 10/10.

Didn't listen but cmon

Very good album of his falling just short of great. Probably the least of his albums during this period and could have been left off the list in favor of the others. Having said that, its Stevie and its jazzy, inventive, and a joy to listen to over and over. It ironically seems more introspective than Innervisions which is more socially critical. Particularly like Boogie on Reggae Woman. Creepin seems to have become a jazz standard. You Haven't Done Nothing seems to channel Superstition but in a good way. When I Go is a bit of a depressing dirge. 4.6

They said no hits came from this album but I’ve at least heard a few on the radio before. Pleasant surprise. Stevie is always great.

don’t hurt em now 😮‍💨✋

Pre-listening thoughts: LETS GO STEVIE WONDER W!!!! I actually know zero songs on here but I have not heard Stevie Wonder miss so far so! Also can I say how refreshing it is to open this page to some pretty/non unsettling album art for once oh my god. Post/during listening thoughts: good lord I love Stevie Wonder. His voice is just butter over the smooth golden base of his music. He is also the master of smooth key changes and you know how I love a good key change. People were complaining about there being multiple Stevie albums when all you “need” to hear is Songs in the Key of Life. Hard disagree. I think all 3 are necessary and Stevie is one of very few artists that deserve every album pick on this list. 10/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: yes Stevie Wonder is magical Fav tracks: once again literally all of them I mean there’s no skips! Least fav tracks: none

Not my fave Stevie record, but a Stevie record nonetheless and therefore timeless and worth endless re-listens. This guy is one of the best to ever write and play. Each phrase, hell each note, holds more interpretation and spontaneity than any entire pop album coming out these days. You know that every time he performs one of his tunes, it is gonna be different. Quintessential "in the moment." Can't fake groove and feel. It just has to be there, and this album has it everywhere. "You Haven't Done Nothin'" is just as relevant now as it ever was.

It's no secret that Stevie is in a league of his own when it comes to songwriting. And while this album doesn't produce any mainstream hits, its sum total is nearly equal to the quality of SITKOL or Innervisions. The very fact that an artists' 17th studio album is of this caliber says everything you need to know.

Stevie Wonder is one of the best of all time. I’m not really familiar with this album so I’m glad this list encouraged me to listen. It might not be as amazing as some of his other work around this time, but I can’t give anything Stevie made in the 70s less than a 5.

I was just properly introduced to this record by a friend in recent weeks, and even just listened to it last week. I couldn’t be happier with now knowing this record. It doesn’t have the bright cheeriness that “Songs in the Key of Life” offers, but the vibes are certainly still very positive, with a few being upbeat. “Heaven is One Zillion Light Years Away” is my absolute jam, and I’m atheist. Stevie has such a raw talent for creating music that is universal. The songs on this one are modest in tone, yet uplifting, and I think the engineering has a lot to do with that. Another quality work from the legend.

I have not heard this one before. The other should be wider album that I'm familiar with as a great favorite of me and my girlfriends. I think this will be joining it.

How have I not ever listened to this before? It‘s an amazing record.

A stunning tour de force. Some of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs and a couple I was not as familiar with but loved. What can we say about the music of this man whose voice carries love, compassion, sorrow, kindness and the full range of human emotion in words of poetry. A master.

The tone of the bass is sooo good.

I'll have to listen to this more for sure, but I loved this. It was joyful and exuberant and it made me smile, which was nice after an otherwise mediocre week of albums for me. Looking forward to revisiting this one and listening to more Stevie Wonder!

If I had to summarize what Stevie Wonder is in a single word, it would be "Joy", because that's what he brings us. Once again, the 70s. Just like Bowie, everything Stevie released at that time was a masterpiece. I wanted to highlight the song Bird Of Beauty where Stevie sings in Portuguese (Brazil Mentioned!). Anyway, it is truly an honor to live on the same planet as this genius! Every time Stevie appears, it will be 5 stars automatically!

In between two heavy hitters but still a perfect album in itself

Wonder is wonderful, as always.

Other than catching Stevie Wonder's songs on the radio, I had never really listened to him. I know he is very famous and very good, but this album really surprised me, it was was varied and interesting and his voice is amazing.

Very vibey. Great energy

Stevie Wonder’s albums in this period have an impressive uplifting quality to it. The sort to make you glad to be alive.

"Fulfillingness' First Finale" is the 17th studio album by American singer-songwriter, musician and record producer Stevie Wonder. This album has a more reflective and somber tone than the social consciousness of his previous album "Innervisions." It was also the fourth of five albums considered Wonder's "classic period." The album hit #1 on the US charts and won the 1975 Grammy for album of the year. The album opens with "Smile Please." It's easy and smooth with congas and bongos. A synth melody and Stevie's gentle, soulful voice. A catchy chorus of back and forth vocals between Wonder and Deniece Williams. Smile Everyday! The funk gets going on "Boogie on Reggae Woman." A stew of instruments with the highlight being Wonder on the Moog bass. A harmonica solo too. The one political song "You Haven't Done Nothin'" adds the funk as well. Criticism of the Nixon administration. A clavinet-driven melody. Horns added. The Jackson 5 on backing vocals ending repeating "do-da-wop." Alright! Backing vocals are also prominently featured in "It Ain't No Use." The song starts out easy listening with the synth and then kicks in with vocals of Lani Groves, Deniece Williams and Minnie Ripperton. Very souful. This album is laid back (almost understated), funky, smooth, soulful and even jazzy at times. The lyrics are spiritual, self-relective and political in one case. The high points (previous songs mentioned) are among the best Stevie but the album is also solid throughout. I've completed all five albums of the "Wonder" classic period in this challenge. They are all wonderful (no pun intended) and well worth repeated listens.

Beautiful album. Stevie Wonder just has such a fantastic voice and the music he produces melts like butter. Favourite track : they won't go when I go.

this album was really funky and nice good album that i would like to have as a vinyl disk.

I actually love this album. Not my number one, but still so good. Stevie is always deserves a five star!

Honestly, this album is wasted on me this morning. I'm in a terrible, distracted, stressed, and lovesick mood so its hard to let one of Stevie's masterpieces sink in. Creepin' is sort of a song that I know I like I just don't feel like listening to it right now. They Won't Go When I Go is more my speed today. Bird Of Beauty immediately has my attention. Maybe by the end of Please Don't Go, I'm feeling better. which is a good sign.

I occasionally go through phases where The Best of Stevie Wonder is in high rotation. It's not the official "Best of" but one I rolled on my own, without songs like "I Just Called to Say I Love You", "Part time Lover" and "Overjoyed", for reasons I hope I don't have to go in to. Though "Overjoyed" is on a Yacht Rock Playlist of mine. So when I listened to this album I avoided checking out the track list in advance to be surprised by the tracks. I was surprised by some of them, didn't find anything to add to my "Best of", but already had a couple on there.

just so good please give me more stevie wonder please

Making funk sophisticated, jazz accesible and inspiring the ecclectism of the decade to come! Brilliant!

"Fulfillingness' First Finale," released in 1974, is one of Stevie Wonder's most critically acclaimed albums. This album is a remarkable blend of soul, funk, and pop, showcasing Wonder’s musical genius during what many consider his "classic period." The album delves into various themes and features intricate production, solidifying Stevie Wonder's status as a master of his craft. ### Lyrics **Themes and Content** The lyrics of "Fulfillingness' First Finale" cover a wide array of themes, from social issues to personal reflections. Stevie Wonder addresses the political climate of the 1970s, personal loss, love, and spirituality. 1. **"You Haven't Done Nothin'"** - This song is a direct critique of political leaders, particularly targeting President Nixon. The lyrics are sharp and pointed, reflecting frustration and a call for accountability: "We are amazed but not amused by all the things you say that you'll do." 2. **"They Won't Go When I Go"** - A somber reflection on mortality and the afterlife, the lyrics are haunting and introspective: "No more lying friends / Wanting tragic ends / Though they do pretend / They won't go when I go." 3. **"Creepin'"** - This track explores the nuances of love and longing with poetic and dreamy lyrics: "I can hear you sighin' / Sayin' you'll stay beside me / Why must it be / That you always creep / Into my dreams?" **Narrative and Emotion** Wonder’s lyrics often weave narratives that resonate deeply on an emotional level. His ability to convey complex emotions through simple yet powerful language is a key strength. The narrative in songs like "Too Shy to Say" about unspoken love or "Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away," which contemplates spiritual distance, showcases his lyrical versatility. ### Music **Instrumentation and Arrangement** The musical arrangement in "Fulfillingness' First Finale" is both sophisticated and diverse. Wonder’s use of various instruments, including his signature clavinet, synthesizers, and harmonica, creates a rich sonic tapestry. 1. **Clavinet and Synthesizers** - On tracks like "Boogie On Reggae Woman," the use of clavinet and synthesizers provides a funky, upbeat foundation that drives the song's groove. 2. **Piano and Strings** - "They Won't Go When I Go" features a stark piano arrangement complemented by subtle string sections, creating a mournful and reflective atmosphere. 3. **Percussion and Bass** - The rhythm section is particularly strong throughout the album, with intricate bass lines and percussion that add depth and rhythm to the tracks. **Melody and Harmony** Wonder’s melodic sensibilities shine throughout the album. He employs a wide range of melodic styles, from the soulful balladry of "Too Shy to Say" to the infectious grooves of "Boogie On Reggae Woman." Harmonically, Wonder experiments with complex chord progressions and rich harmonies, enhancing the emotional impact of his songs. ### Production **Technical Excellence** The production quality of "Fulfillingness' First Finale" is top-notch. Stevie Wonder was deeply involved in the production process, and his attention to detail is evident in the album's polished sound. 1. **Sound Engineering** - The album’s engineering, handled by studio wizards like Robert Margouleff and Malcolm Cecil, ensures clarity and balance. Each instrument is given space to breathe, and the overall mix is both dynamic and cohesive. 2. **Innovative Techniques** - Wonder’s use of the TONTO (The Original New Timbral Orchestra) synthesizer system was groundbreaking. This innovation allowed for unique sound textures and was a significant factor in the album’s distinctive sound. ### Themes **Social and Political Commentary** Several tracks on the album provide incisive social and political commentary. "You Haven't Done Nothin'" is a standout example, with its direct critique of political dishonesty. The song became an anthem for those disillusioned with the political system, especially in the context of the Watergate scandal. **Personal and Emotional Exploration** The album also delves into deeply personal themes. "Too Shy to Say" and "Please Don't Go" explore themes of love and heartache, while "They Won't Go When I Go" reflects on mortality and the afterlife. Wonder’s ability to translate personal experiences into universal themes is a testament to his songwriting prowess. **Spiritual and Philosophical Musings** Songs like "Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away" tackle spiritual and philosophical questions. The track ponders the distance between humanity and the divine, blending personal belief with broader existential questions. ### Influence **Musical Impact** "Fulfillingness' First Finale" had a profound impact on the music industry. It influenced a wide range of artists across genres, from soul and R&B to pop and rock. The album’s innovative use of synthesizers and electronic elements paved the way for future explorations in electronic music. **Cultural Significance** The album’s social and political messages resonated with listeners, reflecting the turbulent times of the 1970s. Songs like "You Haven't Done Nothin'" captured the public’s frustration and became part of the cultural dialogue. **Legacy** "Fulfillingness' First Finale" is often cited as one of Stevie Wonder’s greatest works. It won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, solidifying Wonder's place in music history. The album continues to be celebrated for its artistic depth and innovative production. ### Pros and Cons **Pros** 1. **Lyrical Depth** - Wonder’s lyrics are insightful and cover a wide range of themes, from personal to political. 2. **Musical Innovation** - The use of synthesizers and the TONTO system was groundbreaking, adding unique textures to the music. 3. **Production Quality** - The album’s production is top-notch, with a clear and balanced mix that enhances the listening experience. 4. **Emotional Range** - The album covers a broad emotional spectrum, from the joyous "Boogie On Reggae Woman" to the somber "They Won’t Go When I Go." 5. **Cohesiveness** - Despite its diversity in themes and musical styles, the album feels cohesive and well-structured. **Cons** 1. **Complexity for Casual Listeners** - The album’s lyrical and musical complexity might be challenging for casual listeners who prefer straightforward pop. 2. **Dated Elements** - Some production elements, while innovative at the time, might sound dated to contemporary ears. 3. **Pacing** - The shift from upbeat tracks to slower, introspective songs can feel jarring at times, potentially disrupting the album’s flow. 4. **Accessibility** - The deep and often philosophical lyrics may not be easily accessible to all listeners, requiring multiple listens to fully appreciate. ### Conclusion "Fulfillingness' First Finale" stands as a testament to Stevie Wonder’s genius, blending lyrical profundity, musical innovation, and high production quality into a cohesive and impactful album. While it might present some challenges for casual listeners, its artistic depth and cultural significance make it a landmark in music history. Wonder’s exploration of personal, social, and spiritual themes ensures that the album remains relevant and resonant decades after its release.

Behöver inte ens lyssna på detta underbara album för jag kan det så bra redan❤️❤️❤️❤️

I only knew two tracks. How great to discover this album in its entirety.

Wow, this is a huge improvement over the last Stevie Wonder album I listened to. This was really wonderful to listen to, no notes really, just good vibes

Great album

Not his best of this run, but still a 5

Stevie is so talented, and his voice… amazing. “They won’t go when I go” is one of my favorite songs. George Michael did a fabulous rendition of it.

Stevie Wonder somehow manages to make potentially cheesy or overly-sentimental lyrics work. The chord changes during the songs are so out of the ordinary and fun to listen to. It all just works.

I loved the instruments here and it's Stevie wonder you really can't go wrong great voice and tone.