Stevie Wonder's Journey Through "The Secret Life of Plants"
Stevie Wonder · 1979
89 min · 20 tracks · funk · jazz · R&B
A lush, experimental tapestry blending jazz, funk, and soul with themes of nature and spirituality.
Why this album works
The album received mixed reviews upon release but has since been recognized for its ambitious scope and exploration of environmental consciousness, influencing artists within the soul and funk genres. It has been particularly noted for its instrumental tracks and complex arrangements, which challenged conventional songwriting norms during the late 1970s.
- Best for
- lush soundscapes inviting exploration meditative moments for deep reflection nature-inspired themes for tranquility
- Context
- Released in 1979, this album marked Stevie Wonder's first foray into the realm of film soundtracks following his successful run in the 1970s with hits like 'Songs in the Key of Life'. Positioned as a unique conceptual project, it showcased Wonder's ambition to merge music with environmental themes. At this time, he was solidifying his status as a musical innovator while exploring new artistic territories.
- Stylistic neighbors
- ABBA· Kate Bush· David Bowie· Akiko Yano· Morning Musume· Modern Talking· Julio Iglesias· The Cranberries
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Earth’s Creation 4:06
- 2 The First Garden 2:32
- 3 Voyage to India 6:30
- 4 Same Old Story Standout 3:44
- 5 Venus’ Flytrap and the Bug 2:25
- 6 Ai No Sono 2:05
- 7 Seasons 2:54
- 8 Power Flower Standout 5:30
- 9 Send One Your Love (instrumental) 3:05
- 10 Race Babbling 8:52
Disc 2
- 1 Send One Your Love Standout 4:02
- 2 Outside My Window 5:29
- 3 Black Orchid 3:47
- 4 Ecclesiastes 3:48
- 5 Kesse Ye Lolo de Ye 2:59
- 6 Come Back as a Flower 4:58
- 7 A Seed’s a Star - Tree (medley) 5:54
- 8 The Secret Life of Plants 4:16
- 9 Tree 5:47
- 10 Finale 7:02
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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