Political Beats: Episode 142 - Eli Lake on Stevie Wonder [Part 1]

Released on January 2, 2025 by National Review

In Episode 142 of Political Beats, hosts Scott Bertram and Jeff Blair welcome returning guest Eli Lake to delve into the illustrious career of Stevie Wonder. This episode, the first part of a two-part series, explores Stevie Wonder's formative years, his relationship with Motown Records, and his emergence as a musical genius.

Introduction to Stevie Wonder's Early Career

The episode opens with Scott Bertram introducing Eli Lake, highlighting his credentials as a Free Press columnist and the host of the upcoming Breaking History podcast. The trio sets the stage by comparing the ages of Stevie Wonder and Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, underscoring Stevie's early entry into the music scene.

Scott Bertram [01:35]:

"Stevie Wonder, our guest or our featured artist on Today's program is 18 months younger than Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick... Stevie Wonder had a number one song in 1962."

Eli Lake's Passion for Stevie Wonder

Eli Lake passionately articulates his admiration for Stevie Wonder, emphasizing the joy and human spirit embedded in Stevie’s music. He praises Stevie’s vocal prowess and his pivotal role as an innovator in American music.

Eli Lake [05:11]:

"I love Stevie Wonder because I'm a human being. And there is just, you cannot avoid the joy in almost everything he does."

Lake further elaborates on Stevie's contributions as a songwriter and his groundbreaking use of synthesizers, setting the foundation for Stevie's future innovations.

Jeff Blair’s Journey into Stevie Wonder’s Music

Jeff Blair shares his personal journey of discovering Stevie Wonder, highlighting how limited his exposure was during his upbringing. His introduction to Stevie's music through a boxed set at age 19 marked a significant turning point, expanding his musical horizons and deepening his appreciation for Motown and funk.

Jeff Blair [10:00]:

"When I got that boxed set at the age of 19... Stevie Wonder opened all of those doors to me."

Stevie Wonder’s Motown Years: A Struggle for Artistic Identity

The discussion shifts to Stevie Wonder's early albums under Motown Records. The hosts critique the initial Motown releases, noting the prevalence of cover songs and the struggle Stevie faced in establishing his unique artistic voice amidst the Motown factory system.

Jeff Blair [22:24]:

"Stevie Wonder was born Stevie Judkins... signed him to a contract in 1961."

Scott Bertram [32:12]:

"If you remember back to the Elton John episode, I'm kind of obsessed with number one hits by huge stars who that no longer exist today... Stevie Wonder is just one of the most essential pieces of the story."

Highlighting Key Tracks and Albums

The hosts analyze specific albums and tracks, showcasing Stevie's evolution as an artist. They discuss the significance of Fingertips Part 2, Stevie's first number one hit, and its impact on Motown's trajectory.

Jeff Blair [28:57]:

"Fingertips Part 2 is Stevie Wonder again refusing to leave the stage and just being incredible."

Eli Lake [38:24]:

"There's something about the purity of his voice, the arrangement. There's a little brief, there's a little bit of harmonic in there... There's something about the purity of his voice, the arrangement."

Transition and Creative Autonomy

As Stevie approaches adulthood, the conversation addresses his growing desire for creative control, paralleling Marvin Gaye's struggle with Motown. The hosts emphasize Stevie's role in transforming from a Motown prodigy to an independent, innovative artist.

Jeff Blair [137:30]:

"Stevie Wonder is just one of the most essential pieces of the story when it comes to, you know, self-created geniuses of music in the 60s and 70s."

Notable Quotes and Insights

Throughout the episode, notable quotes provide deeper insight into Stevie Wonder's influence and the challenges he faced:

• Eli Lake [07:41]:

  "Stevie is just a giant figure. The last one I did with you guys was Prince. That was an epic 3 part 11 hour."

• Scott Bertram [05:33]:

  "He has one of the just most brilliant and joyous voices in all of recorded music."

• Jeff Blair [36:16]:

  "America just loves exuberant children."

Conclusion of Part 1

As Part 1 concludes, the hosts reflect on the foundational years of Stevie Wonder's career, acknowledging both his immense talent and the constraints imposed by Motown. They hint at the forthcoming transformation in Stevie's music, setting the stage for Part 2, which will delve into his peak creative period in the 1970s.

Scott Bertram [129:45]:

"...it's pretty amazing."

Eli Lake [130:51]:

"Stevie Wonder Live. The thing that sort of jumped out to me most is the crowd's not as excited as it was when Stevie Wonder was 12."

Recommended Albums and Tracks

Eli Lake's Recommendations:

• Albums:
  • Tribute to Uncle Ray
  • Stevie at the Beach

Jeff Blair's Recommendations:

• Albums:
  • For Once in My Life
  • Signed, Sealed, Delivered

Scott Bertram’s Recommendations:

• Albums:
  • For Once in My Life
  • Signed, Sealed, Delivered

Highlighted Tracks:

• Fingertips Part 2 [06:22]
• Uptight (Everything's All Right) [48:53]
• I Was Made to Love Her [62:13]
• We Can Work It Out [103:19]

Final Thoughts

This episode masterfully balances personal anecdotes with critical analysis, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Stevie Wonder's early career and his intricate relationship with Motown. The hosts' enthusiasm and deep knowledge make the discussion both engaging and informative, setting a high expectation for the continuation in Part 2.

For those interested in exploring the full depth of Stevie Wonder's musical journey, stay tuned for Episode 143, which will continue this exploration into his transformative years in the 1970s.