Political Beats: Episode 143 – Eli Lake / Stevie Wonder [Part 2]

Release Date: February 5, 2025

In the second installment of their deep dive into Stevie Wonder's illustrious career, hosts Scot Bertram and Jeff Blehar, accompanied by guest Eli Lake, explore the transformative years of Stevie Wonder's music from 1972 onward. This episode, part of the "Political Beats" series by National Review, offers an engaging and comprehensive analysis of Stevie Wonder's artistic evolution, technological innovations, and enduring impact on the music industry.

1. Introduction

The episode opens with Scot Bertram setting the stage for a continuation of their discussion on Stevie Wonder, picking up where Part 1 left off in 1971. Guest Eli Lake, a Free Press columnist and contributing editor at Commentary, joins Bertram and co-host Jeff Blair to dissect the pivotal moments in Stevie Wonder's career.

Eli Lake (02:10): "Just a pleasure to be here to talk about one of the great geniuses of our time. Thank you for having me."

2. Stevie Wonder's Artistic Evolution in the Early 70s

Jeff Blair outlines the critical juncture in 1972 when Stevie Wonder secured unprecedented artistic freedom by renegotiating his contract with Motown. This newfound autonomy allowed Wonder to experiment and define his musical direction independently.

Jeff Blair (03:08): "Stevie was essentially the Lone Ranger. He had finally his artistic freedom. He renegotiated [his contract] to give himself complete creative freedom."

3. Music of My Mind: A Breakthrough (1972)

Music of My Mind marked Stevie Wonder's first collaboration with synthesizer innovator Malcolm Cecil and Robert Margouleff. The album showcased Wonder's ability to humanize synthetic sounds, blending them seamlessly into his soulful melodies.

Eli Lake (04:11): "Eva, why have you engulfed so many hearts? Eva, Eva, why have you destroyed so many minds?"

Notable Quote:

Jeff Blair (07:01): "Stevie Wonder was the first person that kind of translated this new technology. He made it sound human, even though this was the height of something that was synthetic."

4. Talking Book: Reaching New Heights (1973)

Following Music of My Mind, Talking Book solidified Stevie Wonder's position as a musical powerhouse. The album featured iconic tracks like "Superstition" and "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," blending funk, soul, and innovative keyboard work.

Jeff Blair (07:19): "Talking Book is where Stevie comes into bloom. It's nearly perfect, except for that one song where he gets hung up on a really annoying groove."

Notable Quote:

Eli Lake (14:21): "Jesus, Children of America, fantastic song."

5. Innervisions and Political Engagement (1973)

Innervisions marked a significant shift as Stevie Wonder delved into more politically charged themes. Songs like "Living for the City" and "Big Brother" offered poignant critiques of societal issues, reflecting Wonder's growing political consciousness.

Jeff Blair (14:47): "What do you think of this first part of Stevie Wonder's Imperial Phase?"

Notable Quote:

Eli Lake (36:58): "We're going to get to that. But Big Brother is more of a critique of the failures of post-LBJ Democratic big city machines."

6. Fulfillingness' First Finale: A Versatile Masterpiece (1974)

Fulfillingness' First Finale is lauded as one of Stevie Wonder's most versatile and emotionally resonant albums. Tracks like "Please Don't Go" and "Sir Duke" showcase his mastery in blending heartfelt ballads with sophisticated musical arrangements.

Jeff Blair (15:02): "There's no artifice. It's just his pure expression of love."

Notable Quote:

Eli Lake (40:15): "They've been covering Stevie Wonder's songs all over, but nothing compares to the original here."

7. Overcoming Adversity: Stevie's Car Accident and Comeback

The discussion takes a somber turn as Jeff Blair recounts Stevie Wonder's tragic car accident shortly after the release of Innervisions. Despite severe injuries and a coma, Wonder's resilience led to a remarkable comeback, fueling his creative drive.

Jeff Blair (61:38): "He survives it all. He comes out of it a week and a half later, and there is a long recovery period."

8. Intervisions (1974): An Outlook for the Future

Intervisions is praised for its ambitious musicality and the seamless integration of synthesizers with traditional instruments. The album reflects Stevie Wonder's continued experimentation and commitment to pushing musical boundaries.

Eli Lake (46:42): "It's such an accomplishment. I mean, everything he touches is gold."

Notable Quote:

Jeff Blair (47:07): "It's taking too high chord for me."

9. Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants (1979) and Its Reception

Contrasting the previous high points, Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants is critiqued as an experimental venture that didn't resonate as strongly with audiences. Despite its innovative approach, the album is considered a departure from Stevie Wonder's classic sound.

Jeff Blair (116:43): "I couldn't give up on it because people were just wanting Stevie Wonder content. And to put it up against what was right before it, it's not fair."

10. Hotter Than July (1980): A Mix of Classics and New Directions

Hotter Than July blends classic Stevie Wonder hits with contemporary sounds influenced by the burgeoning disco scene. Tracks like "Master Blaster" and "I Wish" highlight his ability to adapt while maintaining his signature style.

Jeff Blair (132:53): "But he was everywhere. And the 'Woman in Red' has..."

Notable Quote:

Eli Lake (156:30): "Twinkling. I'll be gone, Excuse me, I have so much more to do."

11. The 80s and Decline: Less Acclaimed Works

The hosts express disappointment with Stevie Wonder's forays into soundtracks and less cohesive projects during the 80s, such as The Woman in Red soundtrack. These works are seen as lacking the depth and innovation of his earlier albums.

Jeff Blair (145:28): "But it's not that much of a drop off. I still think you still have some of that classic Stevie stuff."

Notable Quote:

Eli Lake (161:38): "Love's in need of love Today and knocks me off my feet from songs in the key of life."

12. Influence on Other Artists: Prince and Beyond

A recurring theme is Stevie Wonder's profound influence on contemporaries and future artists, notably Prince. The discussion highlights how Wonder's approach to music set the stage for Prince's eclectic and boundary-pushing style.

Jeff Blair (31:32): "He has a lock, stock and barrel hold upon great romantic songs."

Notable Quote:

Unknown Guest (94:13): "Prince clearly based his entire career off of this album. It was something we didn't really hit on nearly enough."

13. Conclusion: Stevie Wonder's Legacy and Impact

The episode wraps up with reflections on Stevie Wonder's enduring legacy, emphasizing his unparalleled ability to blend musical innovation with heartfelt expression. Despite the ups and downs of his career, Wonder's contributions to music and culture remain monumental.

Jeff Blair (155:24): "People have been learning how to live together in perfect harmony. And in perfect harmony on my keyboard."

Eli Lake (160:04): "Love from songs in the key of life, Songs in the key of life, and intervisions, they're all timeless masterpieces."

Key Takeaways:

• Artistic Freedom: Stevie Wonder's renegotiation with Motown in the early '70s was pivotal, granting him the autonomy to explore and innovate musically.

• Musical Innovation: His collaboration with synthesizers introduced a humanized synthetic sound, setting new standards in music production.

• Political Consciousness: Albums like Innervisions marked a shift towards socially and politically charged themes, reflecting the societal issues of the time.

• Influence on Peers: Wonder's work heavily influenced artists like Prince, who drew inspiration from his eclectic and boundary-pushing approach.

• Legacy: Despite facing challenges and creative dips, Stevie Wonder's contributions to music remain influential and celebrated.

Recommended Listening:

• Albums:

  • Music of My Mind (1972)
  • Talking Book (1973)
  • Innervisions (1973)
  • Fulfillingness' First Finale (1974)
  • Intervisions (1974)
  • Hotter Than July (1980)
  • Songs in the Key of Life (1976)

• Songs:

  • "Superstition" (Talking Book)
  • "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" (Talking Book)
  • "Living for the City" (Innervisions)
  • "Please Don't Go" (Fulfillingness' First Finale)
  • "Sir Duke" (Fulfillingness' First Finale)
  • "Big Brother" (Innervisions)
  • "Master Blaster (Jammin')" (Hotter Than July)
  • "I Wish" (Hotter Than July)
  • "Knocks Me Off My Feet" (Intervisions)

Stevie Wonder's journey through the 1970s and beyond showcases a blend of musical genius, innovative spirit, and a deep connection to the societal currents of his time. This episode of Political Beats not only celebrates his achievements but also critically examines the nuances of his evolving artistry.