The Definitive Collection (Vinyl reissue)
Motown/UMe Records, 2024
REVIEW BY: Tom Haugen
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 05/05/2025
Originally released in 2022, this “best of” collection of Stevie Wonder’s exceptional catalog arrives in the LP format for the first time, where 21 tracks are spread out across two slabs of vinyl.
“Fingertips - Pt. 2” starts the collection with a busy climate of spirited harmonica and a festive mood, and “Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” follows with bright brass and soulful singing that’s got plenty of melody present.
Deeper into the side, “I Was Made To Love Her” comes with a raw recording of crisp drums and plenty of retro flavor, while side B welcomes some very known songs, “Superstition” and “Higher Ground.” The former emits plenty of funk nods alongside Wonder's inimitable pipes. The latter, later popularized by The Red Hot Chili Peppers, is a rhythmic and bouncy moment that invites dancing to the instant sing-alongs.
Starting the back half is the dreamy “You Haven’t Done Nothin’”, where Wonder’s expressive voice is front and center, and “I Wish” is packed with meticulous bass lines that complement the soaring singing. Further along, “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” is a tune for Wonder’s friend Bob Marley, where reggae sensibilities illustrate even more diversity.
Side D contains other global hits, such as the breezy and heartfelt “I Just Called To Say I Love You,” which sure has aged well, and frisky and stylish “Part-Time Lover,” where the snappy drumming and smooth singing is just as infectious as the first time we heard it.
The double album comes housed in a stunning gatefold package that includes rare photos from the Motown Archives, track-by-track info and an essay by the Detroit DJ/writer/producer Scott Regen. If your ears have any interest in Wonder related, you’ll want this release in your collection, as it does a fantastic job of documenting one of the greatest musical minds ever.