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
Stevie Wonder's "Hotter Than July," released on September 29, 1980, is a vibrant and soulful album that showcases the legendary artist's incredible range and depth. This album came at a pivotal time in Wonder's career, following the monumental success of his previous works, and it solidified his status as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
"Hotter Than July" is often celebrated not just for its catchy melodies and rich instrumentation, but also for its cultural significance. The album was released during a time of social change and was a response to the civil rights movement, with Wonder using his platform to advocate for social justice. One of the standout tracks, "Happy Birthday," was written in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. and played a crucial role in the campaign to make his birthday a national holiday. This song is not only a catchy tune but also a powerful statement about equality and recognition.
The album features a mix of genres, including R&B, funk, and pop, all infused with Wonder's signature sound. Tracks like "Master Blaster (Jammin')" and "Did I Hear You Say You Love Me" are infectious and showcase his ability to blend upbeat rhythms with meaningful lyrics. "Master Blaster" is particularly noteworthy as it pays homage to Bob Marley and reggae music, reflecting Wonder's appreciation for different musical styles and cultures.
Critically, "Hotter Than July" received positive reviews from major publications. Rolling Stone praised the album for its upbeat energy and lyrical depth, noting that Wonder's ability to weave social commentary into his music was as strong as ever. The album was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for the track "Master Blaster (Jammin')" and won the award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for the same song, further cementing Wonder's legacy in the music industry.
Production-wise, the album was a collaborative effort, with Wonder taking on multiple roles as a writer, producer, and performer. His use of synthesizers and electronic instruments was innovative for the time, and it helped to shape the sound of R&B in the 1980s. The album was recorded at Wonderland Studios, which Wonder owned, allowing him creative freedom to experiment with sounds and arrangements.
One of the most interesting aspects of "Hotter Than July" is the personal anecdotes shared by Wonder and his collaborators. In interviews, Wonder has mentioned how the album was inspired by his experiences and observations of the world around him. He often draws from his own life, infusing his music with authenticity and emotion. This personal touch resonates with listeners, making the album feel both relatable and profound.
The album's cover art is also worth mentioning. Designed by Wonder himself, it features bright colors and a playful design that reflects the joyful spirit of the music within. The visual presentation complements the album's themes of celebration and unity, making it a complete artistic package.
In conclusion, "Hotter Than July" is more than just an album; it's a cultural artifact that captures a moment in time while also pushing the boundaries of music. Stevie Wonder's ability to blend social messages with infectious melodies makes this album a timeless classic. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, "Hotter Than July" is a must-listen that showcases the genius of one of music's greatest icons.