Album Info
| Artist: | Stevie Wonder |
| Album: | Hotter Than July |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Australia, Nov 1980 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Did I Hear You Say You Love Me | 4:07 |
| A2 | All I Do | 5:06 |
| A3 | Rocket Love | 4:40 |
| A4 | I Ain't Gonna Stand For It | 4:39 |
| A5 | As If You Read My Mind | 3:37 |
| B1 | Master Blaster (Jammin') | 5:07 |
| B2 | Do Like You | 4:26 |
| B3 | Cash In Your Face | 4:01 |
| B4 | Lately | 4:04 |
| B5 | Happy Birthday | 5:57 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Hotter Than July," released in 1980, stands as a testament to Stevie Wonder's extraordinary ability to blend societal commentary with infectious melodies and rhythms. This album marked a triumphant return to form for Wonder, both in terms of commercial success and critical acclaim, after the experimental journey of his previous album "Journey through the Secret Life of Plants."
From the get-go, "Hotter Than July" immerses listeners in a vibrant soundscape that exudes warmth, optimism, and a palpable sense of community. The album is a brilliant concoction of reggae, R&B, funk, and soul, a reflection of Stevie's diverse musical influences.
The opening track, "Did I Hear You Say You Love Me," sets the tone with its lively arrangement and an infectious chorus. This energy seamlessly flows into "All I Do," a love song that has since become a staple in R&B rotations. The song, which was originally penned by a young Michael Jackson, was brought to life by Wonder's unique touch, making it an enduring classic.
However, "Hotter Than July" is not just about love and joy. "Cash in Your Face" is a biting commentary on housing discrimination, with its funky bass lines underscoring the societal critique. In contrast, "Lately" is a haunting ballad about the suspicions and insecurities of a man suspecting his partner's infidelity. Its melancholic piano chords and emotive vocals make it one of the album's standout tracks.
One of the album's most impactful songs is "Happy Birthday," a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Wonder's campaign for a national holiday in honor of Dr. King found its anthem in this track. The song is both a celebration of Dr. King's legacy and a call to action, emphasizing the importance of remembering and continuing his work.
"Master Blaster (Jammin')," inspired by Bob Marley, is another highlight. Its reggae-infused beats and lyrics celebrating the power of music to unite people make it impossible not to dance along.
"Rocket Love" delves into the highs and lows of a passionate relationship, with its celestial metaphors and soulful delivery. Meanwhile, "I Ain't Gonna Stand for It" brings in a country flavor, proving once again Wonder's versatility and willingness to experiment with genres.
"Hotter Than July" wraps up with "Do Like You," a joyous track celebrating the innocence and wonder of childhood, inspired by Wonder's son. It’s a fitting end to an album that traverses the spectrum of human emotion.
In essence, "Hotter Than July" is Stevie Wonder at his best. It's an album that reflects his growth as an artist and his deep understanding of the world around him. He masterfully tackles themes ranging from love and heartbreak to societal issues, all while ensuring that the listener is tapping their foot or swaying to the rhythm. The album serves as a reminder of Wonder's unparalleled musical genius and his enduring impact on the world of music.