Stevie Wonder has an incredible catalog of songs that are not only musically rich but also popular and enjoyable to play on the piano. These are just a few of the best Stevie Wonder songs that are perfect for beginner and intermediate pianists to learn.
No matter your piano skill level, this Stevie Wonder songs list is sure to improve your skills and your repertoire!
1. Superstition
Contents
“Superstition” is one of Stevie Wonder’s iconic tracks, renowned for its catchy hooks and rhythmic grooves. It is undoubtedly one of the best Stevie Wonder songs of all time.
For pianists, the song presents a mix of challenges and straightforward elements, and it is an ideal song to learn for beginner-intermediate skill levels.
The main riff, which is instantly recognizable, is built on a clavinet keyboard sound and requires a good sense of timing and rhythm. This riff, while repetitive, can be tricky due to its syncopated nature.
On the other hand, the chord progressions in the song are relatively straightforward, making them easier for pianists to grasp.
The bridge section, as highlighted in tutorials, can be a bit challenging, especially for beginners, as it introduces new chords and rhythmic patterns.
Overall, “Superstition” is a rewarding song for pianists to learn, offering both simple and complex elements that can help in honing one’s skills.
The song’s structure, especially its hook, serves as a summary of its tonal and melodic essence, making it a timeless piece in the world of music.
2. Higher Ground
Higher Ground offers the intermediate pianist a song with a beautiful melody and an uptempo beat.
The main technical difficulty is the left-hand accompaniment, which has a lot of moving parts. Pianists will need to be able to play these parts smoothly and accurately in order to keep up with the melody.
The melody in this tune repeats throughout, and so singing pianists should be able to master the song with both piano and vocals simultaneously, after a few runs through.
This is another song that shows Stevie’s excellent attention to detail across all instruments, an interesting song form/structure, another fantastic bridge section, and inspiring lyrics, with powerful vocals.
3. Isn’t She Lovely
A great song for beginner-intermediate pianists because it has a simple melody and catchy chords.
The main technical difficulty is the left-hand accompaniment and bassline which has a lot of repeated notes in an ascending melody (you can play this melody in both hands together to increase its effectiveness).
The tune is easy to learn and sing along to, and the chords are easy to play with the right hand. The bridge is also a lot of fun to play, as is the solo section which repeats the melody.
4. For Once in My Life
Another great song for beginner pianists! It has a slow tempo and simple chords, which makes it easy to learn.
“For Once in My Life” is a timeless classic that showcases the brilliance of Stevie Wonder. Originally penned by Ron Miller and Orlando Murden for Motown Records, the song found its most iconic rendition in Stevie Wonder’s uptempo arrangement.
The track stands out not only for its infectious melody but also for the heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, but Stevie’s version remains one of the most celebrated.
The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its recognition at the Grammy Awards, where a collaborative rendition by Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder was honored.
The tricky part to watch out for in this song is the key change. This modulation can be tough to navigate, but it’s not impossible. With a bit of practice, pianists should be able to master it.
The melody is easy to sing along to, and the romantic lyrics are sure to bring a smile to your face.
5. You Are the Sunshine of My Life
You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” is a timeless classic by Stevie Wonder that resonates with pianists of varying skill levels.
Set in the key of B Major, the song primarily employs major chords like B Major, E Major, and F♯ Major, making it a valuable piece for understanding chord progressions and transitions.
Pianists should be attentive to the song’s unique chord structures, such as the B(add9) and F#aug intro chords, and the modulation to the Key of C and later to A♭, which adds a layer of complexity.
The song’s essence is beautifully captured in its initial bars, and the progression I -> V -> IIIm7 -> VI7 is a recognizable pattern.
The song’s lyrics, expressing enduring love and the feeling of a fresh start, combined with its melodic and harmonic richness, make it a rewarding piece to learn and perform.
In comparison to other Stevie Wonder songs, “You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” offers a moderate level of difficulty, challenging enough for intermediate pianists but still accessible for beginners with some experience.
6. Lately
Lately” by Stevie Wonder is a song that showcases his profound understanding of melody, harmony, and song structure. For pianists, learning this song can be both a rewarding and challenging endeavor.
The melody of “Lately” retains a basic structure but is layered with rich harmonies that require a deep understanding of musical theory.
One of the notable aspects of the song is the key change in the chorus, which can be a point of difficulty for many musicians.
Lately is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s genius and offers pianists an opportunity to delve deep into the intricacies of his musical world.
The main technical difficulty is the dynamics and expression. The piano part requires a wide range of dynamics, from soft to loud. You will also need to be able to add expression to the melody, such as vibrato and phrasing.
The melody is easy to sing along to, and the lyrics are sure to touch your heart. So, why not accompany yourself while singing?
7. I Just Called to Say I Love You
I Just Called to Say I Love You” is a timeless ballad that stands as one of the most iconic songs in the vast repertoire of Stevie Wonder.
Written, produced, and performed by the legendary American R&B singer and songwriter, the song captures the essence of expressing love and sentimentality in its purest form.
The song’s title and lyrics emphasize the simple act of reaching out to a loved one, even without a special occasion, just to convey feelings of love. Its melody and lyrics resonate with listeners, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
For many, the song serves as a reminder of the importance of genuine connections and the value of expressing one’s feelings openly.
Beyond its musical significance, the song has also been discussed in various contexts, including its portrayal of cell phones and sentimentality in public spaces.
Regardless of the interpretations, “I Just Called to Say I Love You” remains a testament to Stevie Wonder’s unparalleled ability to craft songs that touch the heart and soul.
8. Sir Duke
How about something different to expand your repertoire? Sir Duke is a funky and jazzy song perfect for pianists who want to learn how to play in a different style.
It has a lot of improvisational elements, so it’s a great song to learn if you want to be creative with your playing. The main technical difficulty is the repeated riff, which is deceptively simple, yet difficult to master straight away.
Pianists must be able to play the rhythms accurately to keep the beat and the hook alive in a band setting. These chord progressions can be somewhat challenging to play, but with a little practice, pianists should be able to master them.
The funky bassline and the jazzy chords are some of the most exciting elements to look forward to. The bassline is a lot of fun to play, and the chords add a lot of depth to the song.
The bridge is also a lot of fun to play, with the fast-moving chords adding a bit of excitement.
9. Living for the City
“Living for the City” is a poignant single by the legendary Stevie Wonder, released in 1973 as part of his critically acclaimed “Innervisions” album.
The song delves deep into the challenges faced by African Americans, particularly those living in urban environments. It paints a vivid picture of the socio-political struggles and the relentless pursuit of a better life amidst adversity.
Musically, the track is a blend of melodic funk, rock, and soulful balladry, capturing the essence of the 1970s while delivering a powerful message that remains relevant even today.
Wonder’s masterful songwriting and emotive vocals make “Living for the City” not just a song, but a narrative that resonates with listeners across generations.
The song’s impact is further amplified by its chart-topping success, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing the number 1 spot on the R&B charts.
10. Master Blaster (Jammin’)
Are you looking for something funky and upbeat? Master Blaster, with its catchy tune and driving beat, is the perfect song for advanced pianists to practice and play.
Master Blaster,” penned by the iconic Stevie Wonder, is a vibrant track that embodies the essence of reggae and pays homage to the legendary Bob Marley.
For pianists embarking on the journey to master this song, there are several musical intricacies to be aware of.
The song’s rhythm, deeply rooted in reggae, requires a pianist to maintain a steady groove while navigating its syncopated patterns.
The melody, while catchy, demands precision in execution, especially when harmonizing with the underlying chords.
Pianists should also be attentive to the song’s dynamics, ensuring that the ebb and flow of intensity is captured accurately.
As with any piece, patience, practice, and a keen ear for musical details are essential for pianists to truly capture the spirit and essence of “Master Blaster.
Best Stevie Wonder Songs 11. As
“AS” is a captivating piece written and performed by the iconic American singer and musician, Stevie Wonder.
Featured in his 1976 album, “Songs in the Key of Life,” the song stands out as a testament to Wonder’s profound musical prowess and his ability to convey deep emotions through his lyrics.
The essence of “AS” lies in its profound message of enduring love, which Wonder equates to the unwavering forces of nature.
The song beautifully conveys the idea that just as nature’s elements remain constant, so does the love he sings about, emphasizing that it is a divine work of God.
For pianists and musicians alike, “AS” offers a rich tapestry of harmonies and melodies to explore, making it not only a joy to listen to but also a rewarding piece to learn and perform.
12. Boogie on Reggae Woman
Boogie On Reggae Woman” is a distinctive funk track by the legendary American Motown artist, Stevie Wonder. Released in 1974, this song stands out as the second single from his seventeenth studio album.
The song is celebrated for its unique blend of funk rhythms with a touch of Caribbean infusion, making it a favorite among fans globally.
The catchy beats and memorable lyrics have not only made it a chart-topper but also a song that has been covered by various artists over the years.
The essence of “Boogie On Reggae Woman” lies in its ability to make listeners dance and feel the groove, all while enjoying Stevie Wonder’s signature vocal prowess.
For pianists and musicians, the song offers a rich tapestry of harmonies and melodies, making it a rewarding piece to learn and perform.
The song’s popularity and influence in the music world are evident, as it continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by generations of music lovers.
Practice Tips
Here are some general tips for practicing Stevie Wonder’s songs on the piano:
- Start by practicing the right-hand melody separately. Once you can play the melody smoothly and evenly, add the left-hand accompaniment.
- Practice playing the songs slowly until you can play them accurately. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the song.
- Pay attention to the dynamics and expression. Stevie Wonder’s songs often require a wide range of dynamics, from soft to loud. You will also need to be able to add expression to the melody, such as vibrato and phrasing.
- Practice playing the song at different tempos and with creative arrangements. Stevie Wonder’s songs are often very versatile and can be played in various ways. Experiment with different grooves to see what you like best.
- Have fun! Stevie Wonder’s songs are meant to be enjoyed. So relax, take your time, and enjoy the process of learning them.
Conclusion
Remember that Stevie Wonder’s music often blends various genres, including funk, soul, R&B, and jazz. His compositions can be intricate, so it’s a good idea to start with simpler arrangements and gradually work your way up to more complex versions.
All these songs have their unique challenges, but with practice and patience, you can master them. Start with a slower tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
Listening to Stevie Wonder’s original recordings can also provide valuable insights into the nuances of his piano-playing style.
