Is Characters a good place to start with Stevie Wonder?

Yes, Characters is recommended as a starting point for new Stevie Wonder listeners. A vibrant tapestry of funk, soul, and jazz, weaving together heartfelt melodies and intricate rhythms. Released in 1987, Characters was Stevie Wonder's first studio album in nearly a decade, following the critically acclaimed Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants in 1979. This album marked an important transition in his career as he sought to redefine his sound while navigating personal challenges and changes within the music industry.

Who is Characters for?

Characters works well if you're into vibrant grooves for dance parties, emotional ballads for late nights and uplifting melodies for good vibes.

How many songs are on Characters?

Characters has 12 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

Characters

Stevie Wonder · 1987

61 min · 12 tracks · blues

A vibrant tapestry of funk, soul, and jazz, weaving together heartfelt melodies and intricate rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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You Will Know Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Skeletons — This track stands out with its infectious groove and socially conscious lyrics, highlighting themes of self-discovery and resilience amidst life's struggles.
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Dark ’n’ Lovely — Combining smooth vocal lines with lush instrumentation, this track showcases Wonder's ability to blend romance with deeper emotional undertones.
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With Each Beat of My Heart — This song encapsulates classic Motown influences while exploring themes of love and longing, making it a quintessential example of Wonder's soulful balladry.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

vibrant grooves for dance parties
emotional ballads for late nights
uplifting melodies for good vibes
soulful moments for introspection
catchy rhythms for sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

prefer immediate gratification
seek minimalist soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Released after a long hiatus, it showcases Wonder's continued creativity and innovation.
Themes: personal struggle· social commentary· intimate resilience
Career context: Released in 1987, Characters was Stevie Wonder's first studio album in nearly a decade, following the critically acclaimed Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants in 1979. This album marked an important transition in his career as he sought to redefine his sound while navigating personal challenges and changes within the music industry.
Stylistic neighbors: Marvin Gaye· Prince· Curtis Mayfield