Stevie Wonder’s Songs In The Key Of Life is being celebrated by Jazz FM with a special one hour tribute.
The groundbreaking double album was released in 1976 and is marking its 50th anniversary this month, with Jazz FM exploring the record’s lasting influence across music.
Hosted by Richard Allinson, the special programme looks at the songs that have captivated listeners for half a century, including enduring favourites As, Isn’t She Lovely and Sir Duke.
The hour-long tribute also explores tracks that reach further into jazz and soul, while examining the songwriting process and the more than 100 musicians who contributed to the album.
The programme will also look at the many cover versions released over the years, alongside the influence Stevie Wonder and the album have had on musicians working today.
Tributes to Stevie and the album come from Sting and Deniece Williams, who provided backing vocals on Songs In The Key Of Life.
Legendary record producer Steve Levine also provides in depth studio analysis, offering insight into the making of an album which has remained an important reference point for musicians.
Present day artists who have been inspired by Stevie Wonder, as well as those who have worked alongside him, also feature in the programme.
Among them is singer and Jazz FM presenter Mica Millar, who discusses Stevie’s influence and his continuing impact on musicians.
Songs In The Key Of Life has also played a significant role in contemporary hip hop and dance music, with tracks from the album heavily sampled over the years.
Jazz FM’s programme explores that connection, showing how music created half a century ago continues to appear in new musical settings and reach different generations of listeners.
The tribute also considers the album’s place in music history, with Songs In The Key Of Life ranked fourth in Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums Of All Time.
The anniversary gives Jazz FM the opportunity to revisit one of Stevie Wonder’s most celebrated records while exploring the musicians, songs and ideas that have helped maintain its influence.
With contributions from artists, producers and musicians connected to Stevie Wonder, the programme examines why Songs In The Key Of Life continues to attract attention 50 years after its release.
The programme can be heard at 9pm on Sunday 27 September.