**Breaking News: 3 Songs Written but Not Originally Performed by Stevie Wonder**
Stevie Wonder, one of the most iconic figures in the music world, is celebrated not only for his extraordinary vocal and instrumental abilities but also for his contributions as a prolific songwriter. While Wonder’s name is synonymous with timeless classics such as “Superstition,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” and “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” many fans may not realize that he has written several hit songs that were performed by other artists. In fact, his behind-the-scenes songwriting genius has shaped numerous chart-topping tracks, showcasing his range as a musician and his influence on other artists. Today, we take a deep dive into three standout songs that were written by Stevie Wonder but were not originally performed by him.
### 1. **”Tears of a Clown” – Smokey Robinson & The Miracles**
One of the most surprising hits that was penned by Stevie Wonder is the 1970 classic “Tears of a Clown” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. The song, which became an instant Motown classic, was written by Wonder alongside his frequent collaborators Hank Cosby and Smokey Robinson himself. Interestingly, Wonder had actually written the song back in 1966, but it was shelved for several years before it saw the light of day.
The song is a perfect blend of melancholy and joy, a combination that Wonder knew how to deliver with his signature soulful style. “Tears of a Clown” is about the theme of hiding sadness behind a mask of happiness, a theme that resonates with the deep emotions Wonder often conveyed in his work. It wasn’t until 1970, after being dusted off and reworked, that the track was finally released as a single, becoming one of The Miracles’ biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard pop charts.
Although the song’s playful, upbeat rhythm and catchy melodies are signature elements of Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, there’s no denying Wonder’s touch in the songwriting. Wonder’s innate ability to weave poignant lyrics with joyful melodies shone through in this remarkable hit.
### 2. **”Tell Me Something Good” – Rufus featuring Chaka Khan**
Another song that saw Stevie Wonder’s songwriting brilliance shine through is “Tell Me Something Good,” a funky, soulful anthem originally performed by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan. Released in 1974, the track became one of the defining songs of the 1970s funk era, and its catchy chorus and rhythm section became instantly recognizable. However, what many music lovers may not know is that the song was written by none other than Stevie Wonder.
Wonder’s creative influence on the track is clear, especially in its intricate instrumentation and melodic structure. “Tell Me Something Good” features a funky bassline, sharp horns, and a tight groove that is characteristic of Wonder’s work during this period. His ability to craft dynamic and unforgettable melodies is evident in the song’s structure, which was later interpreted by Rufus and the powerhouse vocals of Chaka Khan. The chemistry between the band and Khan brought the song to life in a way that became a huge hit on the charts and solidified its place as a funk classic.
Although Wonder was the mastermind behind the lyrics and melody, Chaka Khan’s vocal performance elevated the song to another level, showcasing her raw, soulful power. The track reached number three on the Billboard R&B charts, and the distinctive sound became a hallmark of both Wonder’s songwriting and Rufus’s sound. The collaboration between Wonder and Khan was a major success, even though Wonder didn’t perform the track himself.
### 3. **”I Was Made to Love Her” – Jr. Walker & The All Stars**
Stevie Wonder’s songwriting prowess also played a pivotal role in the 1969 hit “I Was Made to Love Her,” performed by Jr. Walker & The All Stars. Wonder wrote the song at a time when he was still a relatively young artist, but already proving his versatility beyond his own albums. The song features a signature blend of soulful rhythm, bluesy harmonica riffs, and heartfelt lyrics about the overwhelming power of love.
Originally, Wonder had planned to record the song for himself but ultimately decided to offer it to Walker and his band. The decision turned out to be a wise one, as “I Was Made to Love Her” became a huge success, reaching number two on the Billboard R&B charts and number five on the pop charts. The song’s funky, horn-heavy arrangement and catchy chorus became instantly memorable, marking a significant moment in both Wonder’s songwriting career and the music scene of the late 1960s.
What’s remarkable about “I Was Made to Love Her” is the way Wonder effortlessly combined infectious rhythm with emotional depth. While Jr. Walker’s saxophone skills took center stage, Wonder’s mastery of melody and harmony provided the perfect foundation for the track’s upbeat yet soulful vibe. Walker’s signature vocal delivery, paired with Wonder’s arrangements, made this song a standout in the Motown catalog. Although Wonder’s own vocal and instrumental prowess would have made for an amazing rendition of the song, Jr. Walker & The All Stars’ version solidified the track as one of the greatest hits of the era.
### A Legacy of Songwriting Excellence
These three tracks are just a glimpse into the expansive catalog of songs that Stevie Wonder has written for other artists over the years. His ability to craft unforgettable melodies and deeply emotional lyrics transcends the boundaries of genre, time, and performance. Whether it was Smokey Robinson’s heartache on “Tears of a Clown,” Chaka Khan’s soulful delivery on “Tell Me Something Good,” or Jr. Walker’s exuberant energy on “I Was Made to Love Her,” Wonder’s influence is present in each one of these songs, even though he wasn’t the one who performed them.
While Wonder is undoubtedly one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, his ability to write songs for others demonstrates the extent of his musical genius. For many artists, having a song written by Stevie Wonder is seen as a mark of musical prestige, and his contributions to the music world go far beyond his own chart-topping hits. In many ways, Wonder’s songwriting legacy is as significant as his own performances, and his work continues to inspire artists across genres to this day.
As Stevie Wonder celebrates more than six decades in the music industry, his influence remains as relevant as ever. These three songs, written by Wonder but performed by other iconic artists, serve as a testament to his unparalleled ability to create songs that stand the test of time. Even if Wonder never sang a note on some of these tracks, his impact is undeniable, and his name will forever be synonymous with musical excellence. As fans continue to appreciate Wonder’s artistry, it’s worth remembering that his genius extends far beyond his own albums—he’s been quietly shaping the sound of music for generations.
