Stevie at the Beach

Before Stevie Wonder hit his stride as an artist, he was treated as an experiment by his handlers at Tamla (later Motown). They tried to sell the young prodigy as a lounge singer and a Ray Charles imitator as they chased contemporary trends, neither of which bore successful results. Riding the tide of surf rock as acts like The Beach Boys gained in popularity didn’t make Stevie a household name either, but Stevie at the Beach is a surprisingly solid record despite being little more than a novelty. His harmonica pairs well with the lush and lilting surf swells, showing he had range and a strong understanding of music other than the R&B style he would ultimately become known for. It’s fun summer music.