"Another Star" is the exuberant closing track on Stevie Wonder’s iconic 1976 double album, Songs in the Key of Life. Written, produced, and performed by Wonder, the song is celebrated for its infectious Latin and jazz-inspired rhythms, vibrant horn arrangements, and uplifting spirit. Released as a single in 1977, it stands as one of the album’s most danceable and musically intricate pieces13.
Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 28, 1976 (album) / 1977 (single) |
| Album | Songs in the Key of Life |
| Length | 8:28 (album version), 5:17 (single edit) |
| Writer/Producer | Stevie Wonder |
| Genre | Disco, Latin, Jazz, Soul |
| Label | Tamla (Motown) |
| Chart Performance | #32 US Hot 100, #29 UK, #2 US Dance/Disco |
Musical Style and Structure
- Rhythm & Arrangement:
The song features a lively, Latin-influenced groove with a prominent horn section, layered percussion, and energetic rhythms. Its extended instrumental passages and infectious "la la la" chorus make it a favorite for both dance floors and live performances13. - Instrumentation:
- Stevie Wonder: vocals, keyboards, and most instruments
- Bobbi Humphrey: flute (notably in the closing section)
- George Benson: guitar and background vocals
- Additional musicians: Hank Redd (alto sax), Raymond Maldonado and Steve Madaio (trumpets), Trevor Laurence (tenor sax), Nathan Alford Jr. (percussion), Carmello Hungria Garcia (timbales), Josie James (background vocals)6.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of "Another Star" express unwavering devotion and longing for a lost love. Wonder uses celestial imagery—"For you, there might be another star / But through my eyes, the light of you is all I see"—to convey that no matter what else the world offers, his heart remains with one special person. The song’s joyful sound contrasts with the bittersweet theme of heartbreak and enduring affection78.
Reception and Legacy
- Critical Response:
Praised for its "foot-tapping, Latin-influenced rhythm" and "unforgettable 'La la la' chorus," the song was recognized as a highlight of Songs in the Key of Life and a showcase for Wonder’s musical versatility1. - Chart Success:
The single reached #32 on the US Billboard Hot 100, #18 on the Black Singles chart, #2 on the Dance/Disco chart, and #29 in the UK13. - Cultural Impact:
"Another Star" was notably used as the theme for the BBC’s coverage of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, underlining its enduring appeal and international flavor3.
Notable Personnel
| Musician | Role(s) |
|---|---|
| Stevie Wonder | Vocals, keyboards, arrangements |
| Bobbi Humphrey | Flute |
| George Benson | Guitar, background vocals |
| Hank Redd | Alto saxophone |
| Raymond Maldonado | Trumpet |
| Steve Madaio | Trumpet |
| Trevor Laurence | Tenor saxophone |
| Nathan Alford, Jr. | Percussion |
| Carmello Hungria Garcia | Timbales |
| Josie James | Background vocals |
Summary
"Another Star" captures Stevie Wonder at the height of his creative powers, blending vibrant musical influences into a jubilant celebration of love and longing. Its combination of Latin rhythms, jazz flourishes, and heartfelt lyrics ensures its place as a standout in Wonder’s legendary discography and a perennial favorite among fans and critics alike13.
