About the song
“Superstition,” an iconic track by the legendary Stevie Wonder, stands as a testament to his musical genius and enduring influence. Released on October 24, 1972, as the lead single from his fifteenth studio album, *Talking Book*, the song immediately captivated audiences with its innovative blend of funk, rock, and soul elements. Written and performed primarily by Wonder himself, “Superstition” soared to the top of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and soul singles chart in January 1973, marking Wonder’s triumphant return to the number-one spot after nearly a decade.
The song’s lyrics delve into the theme of superstitions and their detrimental impact, reflecting Wonder’s knack for blending social commentary with infectious rhythms. Its distinctive sound is anchored by Wonder’s virtuoso performance on the Hohner Clavinet and Moog synthesizer bass, which provided the funky backbone that defines the track. The addition of Trevor Lawrence on tenor saxophone and Steve Madaio on trumpet further enriched its vibrant sonic tapestry.
Behind the scenes, “Superstition” was a product of collaboration and spontaneity. Inspired by an initial drum beat conceived by guitarist Jeff Beck, Wonder improvised much of the song during recording sessions for *Talking Book*. The synergy between Beck’s rhythmic foundation and Wonder’s improvisational prowess resulted in a rough demo that showcased their creative synergy.
The decision to release “Superstition” as a lead single was a strategic one, driven by Motown’s Berry Gordy, who foresaw its potential to elevate *Talking Book*’s commercial success. This move proved prescient, as the song not only dominated the charts but also garnered critical acclaim. Rolling Stone magazine has since recognized it multiple times on their prestigious list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, solidifying its place in music history.
At the 16th Grammy Awards, “Superstition” earned Wonder two Grammys, including “Best Rhythm & Blues Song” and “Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male,” underscoring its impact on both popular music and Wonder’s career trajectory. Moreover, its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 further cemented its legacy as a timeless classic.
“Superstition” remains a quintessential example of Stevie Wonder’s unparalleled artistry, blending innovative instrumentation with poignant social commentary to create a musical masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences across generations. Its enduring popularity underscores its status not just as a hit song, but as a cultural touchstone that transcends time and genre boundaries.
Video
Lyrics
Very superstitious,
Writing’s on the wall,
Very superstitious,
Ladders bout’ to fall,
Thirteen month old baby,
Broke the lookin’ glass
Seven years of bad luck,
The good things in your past
When you believe in things
That you don’t understand,
Then you suffer,
Superstition aint the way
Hey
Very superstitious,
Wash your face and hands,
Rid me of the problem,
Do all that you can,
Keep me in a daydream,
Keep me goin’ strong,
You don’t wanna save me,
Sad is the soul
When you believe in things
That you don’t understand,
Then you suffer,
Superstition ain’t the way,
Yeh, yeh
Very superstitious,
Nothin’ more to say,
Very superstitious,
The devil’s on his way,
Thirteen month old baby,
Broke the lookin’ glass,
Seven years of bad luck,
Good things in your past
When you believe in things
That you don’t understand,
Then you suffer,
Superstition ain’t the way,
No, no, no