1.
In which year was this album produced?
Correct Answer
D. 1972
Explanation
Stevie Wonder's "Talking Book" album was produced in 1972. It marked a significant milestone in Wonder's career, as he fully embraced his creative independence and experimented with new sounds, instruments, and songwriting techniques. The album was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York City, where Wonder worked with a talented team of musicians and engineers to create the rich, innovative soundscape that defined "Talking Book." The album's release in 1972 firmly established Stevie Wonder as a trailblazer in popular music.
2.
A lot of producers came together to make this album; one of them is?
Correct Answer
A. Malcolm Cecil
Explanation
Malcolm Cecil was one of the producers who collaborated with Stevie Wonder on the "Talking Book" album. Cecil, along with his partner Robert Margouleff, was responsible for engineering and co-producing the record. They worked closely with Wonder to experiment with new recording techniques and cutting-edge electronic instruments, including the innovative TONTO synthesizer system. This collaboration contributed significantly to the unique and groundbreaking sound of "Talking Book," which would go on to influence countless artists and producers in the years to come.
3.
On which label was this album recorded?
Correct Answer
D. Tamla
Explanation
"Talking Book" was recorded and released on the Tamla label, which was a subsidiary of Motown Records. Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy in 1959, played a crucial role in shaping the sound of American popular music throughout the 1960s and beyond. As one of Motown's most successful and groundbreaking artists, Stevie Wonder's association with the Tamla label proved to be a fruitful partnership, with "Talking Book" serving as a prime example of the innovative and soulful music that emerged from this collaboration. The album's release on Tamla solidified Wonder's status as a major force in popular music and helped to further establish the label's legacy in music history.
4.
How many songs are originally on this album?
Correct Answer
A. 10
Explanation
Stevie Wonder's "Talking Book" album originally features 10 songs. These tracks showcase the full range of Wonder's musical abilities, from the catchy, upbeat funk of "Superstition" and "I Believe (When I Fall in Love It Will Be Forever)" to the poignant ballads "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" and "You and I (We Can Conquer the World)." The album's diverse and innovative musical landscape helped to establish "Talking Book" as a landmark record in popular music, earning Wonder multiple Grammy Awards and cementing his status as one of the most talented and influential artists of his generation.
5.
What is the title of the album that succeeded this album?
Correct Answer
B. Innervisions
Explanation
The album that succeeded "Talking Book" in Stevie Wonder's discography is "Innervisions," released in 1973. Following the immense critical and commercial success of "Talking Book," "Innervisions" continued to explore themes of love, social consciousness, and spirituality. The album's innovative blend of soul, funk, and jazz influences earned Wonder another Grammy for Album of the Year, solidifying his status as a musical visionary. "Innervisions" features timeless classics such as "Higher Ground" and "Living for the City," and is widely considered a masterpiece in its own right.
6.
"Superstition" is not one of the tracks on the "Talking Book" album.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
False. "Superstition" is indeed one of the tracks on Stevie Wonder's "Talking Book" album. In fact, it was the album's lead single, released in October 1972 ahead of the full album's release. The song became an instant hit, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and earning Wonder a Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Song. With its infectious funk groove, catchy melody, and Wonder's virtuosic performance on a variety of instruments, "Superstition" remains one of the most iconic and enduring tracks from "Talking Book" and a definitive example of Stevie Wonder's musical genius.
7.
When was this album recorded?
Correct Answer
A. 1983
Explanation
"Talking Book" was recorded in 1972, primarily at Electric Lady Studios in New York City. Stevie Wonder, along with producers Malcolm Cecil and Robert Margouleff, spent much of the year working on the album, experimenting with new recording techniques and pushing the boundaries of popular music. The trio's innovative approach to production, coupled with Wonder's extraordinary songwriting and musicianship, resulted in the groundbreaking sound that defines "Talking Book." The album's 1972 recording date situates it at the forefront of a transformative period in popular music, as artists like Wonder pioneered new genres and styles that would shape the sound of the decade.
8.
Which of these is a song on the album?
Correct Answer
B. Big Brother
Explanation
"Big Brother" is the correct answer. This song, written and performed by Stevie Wonder, is the seventh track on the "Talking Book" album. The song addresses issues of social inequality and injustice, with lyrics that express frustration and anger towards those who use their power to oppress others. "Big Brother" showcases Wonder's ability to seamlessly blend political commentary with his unique brand of soulful funk, resulting in a powerful and thought-provoking composition. The song is just one example of the diverse range of themes and styles that make "Talking Book" such a groundbreaking and influential album.
9.
How did this album rank on the UK Albums Chart?
Correct Answer
A. 16
Explanation
"Talking Book" reached number 16 on the UK Albums Chart. While not quite achieving the same level of commercial success as it did in the United States, where it reached number 3 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart and number 1 on the Billboard R&B Albums chart, the album was still well-received in the UK. Its groundbreaking sound and innovative approach to popular music resonated with audiences and critics alike, solidifying Stevie Wonder's status as a global superstar and paving the way for future artists to explore the fusion of soul, funk, and rock.
10.
Stevie Wonder was the sole producer of the "Talking Book" album.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
While Stevie Wonder played a crucial role in producing "Talking Book," he collaborated with Robert Margouleff and Malcolm Cecil, challenging conventional norms and creating a timeless musical masterpiece.