Notablog

Song of the Day: As features the words and music of Stevie Wonder, who celebrates his 75th birthday today. This song appears on Stevie’s legendary 1976 album, “Songs in the Key of Life.” That double album, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, won the Grammy for “Album of the Year” (one of three times that Stevie took home that honor) and remains the best-selling album of Stevie’s Wonder-ful career. In addition to Stevie’s incomparable vocal delivery, his own Fender Rhodes piano playing is supplemented by the great Herbie Hancock (who also provides some handclaps). “Songs in the Key of Life” had such a notable impact that it was celebrated in an All-Star Grammy Salute to mark its 40th Anniversary (that terrific concert is available on YouTube). Having seen Stevie twice in person (once at Madison Square Garden, and also in the far more intimate setting of Radio City Music Hall), he remains one of my all-time favorite artists. I have featured nearly 50 Stevie Wonder recordings on “My Favorite Songs” over the years. As the recipient of 25 Grammys, in addition to the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and an Academy Award, he has been honored by the Kennedy Center, the Library of Congress (Gershwin Prize), the Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Beyond his innovative musical legacy, his humor and humanity have inspired generations of artists across all genres. Happy Birthday to a Legend! Check out this wonderful song [YouTube link].