Celebrating the Wonder of Life: A Tribute to Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely”
Stevie Wonder’s iconic track, “Isn’t She Lovely,” is more than just a song; it’s a joyous celebration of life itself. Released as part of his 1976 masterpiece, Songs in the Key of Life, this track holds a special place in the hearts of listeners, capturing the pure and overwhelming emotions of a father’s love for his newborn daughter, Aisha Morris. The song, while never released as a commercial single, resonated deeply with audiences, reaching number 23 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart in January 1977 purely through airplay. This speaks volumes about the track’s impact and the universal appeal of its heartfelt message.
At its core, “Isn’t She Lovely” is a personal, almost intimate, expression of gratitude and wonder. The song opens with the sounds of a newborn’s first cry—an actual recording from Aisha’s birth—immediately grounding the listener in the profound experience of new life. This moment sets the stage for a track that is as much about the tender moments of parenthood as it is about the pure, unfiltered joy that comes with it.
Musically, the track is a tour de force. Stevie Wonder, known for his incredible versatility, plays almost all the instruments himself. His use of a chromatic harmonica, a rare and challenging instrument, adds a unique texture to the song, while the inclusion of a recording of him bathing Aisha as a toddler further personalizes the experience for the listener. The song’s structure is unconventional, with its length extending over six minutes, a deliberate choice by Wonder who refused to shorten it for a single release. This decision underscores his commitment to preserving the song’s authenticity, allowing it to unfold naturally and fully.
The collaboration with Harlem songwriter Burnetta “Bunny” Jones further adds depth to the track, blending Wonder’s soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics that capture the indescribable feelings of pride and love. Even though “Isn’t She Lovely” was never released as a single, it became an instant classic, a testament to its timeless quality and the deep emotional connection it fosters with listeners.
Over the years, the song has been embraced by a wide range of artists, becoming a standard in both jazz and pop genres. Its influence extends far beyond its initial release, with countless covers and renditions keeping the song alive in the hearts of new generations. When Stevie Wonder performed it at Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Concert in 2012, with lyrics adjusted to honor the Queen, it once again proved its versatility and enduring charm.
“Isn’t She Lovely” is more than a song; it’s a universal anthem of love and celebration, reminding us all of the beauty of life and the joy that comes with welcoming a new soul into the world. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, not through commercial success, but through the genuine and heartfelt emotions it continues to evoke in anyone who listens.
Music Legend