A Groove Sealed Tight: Stevie Wonder’s Enduring Anthem, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours”
Few artists have captured the essence of youthful love and commitment with such infectious energy as Stevie Wonder. In 1970, at the tender age of 20, Wonder unleashed a song that would become a timeless classic, a cornerstone of soul music, and a wedding reception staple for decades to come: Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.
Background
This wasn’t just another love song on the radio. Signed, Sealed, Delivered marked a turning point in Wonder’s career. Having already established himself as a prodigious talent with a string of Motown hits, Wonder flexed his creative muscles for the first time, taking the producer’s reins for this single.
This newfound artistic control, coupled with his ever-evolving musical genius, resulted in a song that transcended genre and generation.
The song’s foundation lies in a groove so deep it could burrow into the earth’s core. Bassist Bob Babbitt lays down a funky, syncopated line that serves as the backbone of the track
Wonder himself adds layers of instrumentation, including the now-iconic clavinet riff and a surprising yet fitting touch – the electric sitar, played by Eddie “Chank” Willis
The imagery of a love letter, stamped, sealed, and delivered, becomes a metaphor for the singer’s unwavering devotion. The repetition of the title phrase throughout the song is not just catchy, it serves as a powerful affirmation. It’s a promise, a vow, sung with a conviction that leaves no room for doubt.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Like a fool I went and stayed too longNow I’m wondering if your love’s still strongOo, baby, here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours!Then that time I went and said goodbyeNow I’m back and not ashamed to cryOo, baby, here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours!Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)I’ve done a lot of foolish thingsThat I really didn’t mean, didn’t I?Seen a lot of things in this old worldWhen I touch them, they mean nothing, girlOo, baby, here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours!Oowee baby, you set my soul on fireThat’s why I know you’re my heart’s only desireHere I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)