Stevie Wonder is a famous American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his soulful voice and amazing talent.
He started performing as a child and signed with Motown Records at a young age. Hits like Superstition, Isn’t She Lovely, and I Just Called to Say I Love You made him a global star.
Stevie has won 25 Grammy Awards, more than most artists in history. His music is full of feeling and rhythm, and he’s loved by fans around the world.
About the Song
Higher Ground is a lively Stevie Wonder song with lyrics about getting another chance at life.
The music has a strong funk beat, a wah-wah keyboard sound, and a Moog bass. Stevie played all the parts himself in just a few hours.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | August 3, 1973 |
| Album | At the Close of a Century |
| Writer | Stevie Wonder |
| Producers | Stevie Wonder, Malcolm Cecil, Robert Margouleff |
Higher Ground Lyrics by Stevie Wonder
Verse 1
People, keep on learning
Soldiers, keep on warring
World, keep on turning
‘Cause it won’t be too long
Verse 2
Powers keep on lying
While your people keep on dying
World keep on turning
‘Cause it won’t be too long
Chorus
I’m so darn glad He let me try it again
‘Cause my last time on Earth, I lived a whole world of sin
I’m so glad that I know more than I knew then
Going to keep on trying
‘Til I reach my highest ground
Verse 3
Teachers, keep on teaching
Preachers, keep on preaching
World, keep on turning
‘Cause it won’t be too long
Oh, no
Verse 4
Lovers, keep on loving
Believers, keep on believing
Sleepers, just stop sleeping
‘Cause it won’t be too long
Oh, no
Chorus
I’m so glad that He let me try it again
‘Cause my last time on Earth, I lived a whole world of sin
I’m so glad that I know more than I knew then
Going to keep on trying
‘Til I reach my highest ground
Woo
Outro
‘Til I reach my highest ground
No one’s gonna bring me down
Oh, no
‘Til I reach my highest ground
Don’t you let nobody bring you down (They’ll sho’ ’nuff try)
God is gonna show you highest ground
He’s the only friend you’ll have around
‘Cause the rest of the world will bring you down
Similar Songs Like Higher Ground
Here are four other songs by Stevie Wonder that share a bold, lively feel like Higher Ground:
- Superstition: A tight, driving groove built around a catchy clavinet riff. The beat and horns grab attention right away.
- Living for the City: It tells a vivid story of a young man facing city life challenges. It mixes funk, soul, and social talk.
- Boogie on Reggae Woman: Catchy funk with a playful groove and harmonica parts. It reached top spots and even won a Grammy award.
- Sir Duke: Bright tune honoring jazz greats. It has upbeat horns, joyful energy, and playful lyrics celebrating music heroes.
Similar Artists Like Stevie Wonder
Here are five artists whose music style and talent are similar to Stevie Wonder’s. They blend soul, R&B, funk, and gospel in powerful ways:
- Ray Charles
Genre: Soul, R&B, gospel
Top Albums: Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music (1962), The Genius of Ray Charles (1959) - Marvin Gaye
Genre: Soul, R&B, funk
Top Albums: What’s Going On (1971), Let’s Get It On (1973) - Donny Hathaway
Genre: Soul, R&B, gospel
Top Albums: Extension of a Man (1973), Live (1972) - Curtis Mayfield
Genre: Soul, funk, gospel
Top Albums: Super Fly (1972), Roots (1971) - Al Green
Genre: Soul, gospel, R&B
Top Albums: Let’s Stay Together (1972), Call Me (1973)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Higher Ground Stand Out from Other Funk Tracks?
Its use of the clavinet and quick rhythm creates a strong, unforgettable groove that grabs listeners from the start.
Is Higher Ground More Focused on Sound or Message?
The song balances both, using bold music to support a deeper message about moving forward and staying strong.
Why is the Keyboard Sound in Higher Ground so Important?
The keyboard gives the song its sharp, funky feel and sets the tone for everything else that follows.
