About the song
Released in 1987, “Faith” by Stevie Wonder is a soulful ballad that blends heartfelt emotion with the signature musical innovation that Wonder is known for. This track was featured on his album “In Square Circle”, which marked a period of renewed commercial success for the artist after a series of groundbreaking albums throughout the 1970s. “Faith” was one of the standout tracks from this album, and it became a significant hit, resonating deeply with audiences across the globe.
The meaning of “Faith” is both personal and universal. It centers around the theme of hope, belief, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The lyrics convey a message of trusting in love and maintaining faith in life’s uncertain journey. Wonder sings about the importance of “faith” in relationships and in one’s ability to overcome the difficulties life presents. The song’s central message—that faith in oneself and others can carry us through tough times—became a source of comfort for many, especially during a decade marked by social and political challenges.
Musically, “Faith” is a quintessential Stevie Wonder composition, combining his unique blend of soul, pop, and R&B with elements of funk. The song is underpinned by Wonder’s trademark synthesizers and electronic rhythms, which were cutting-edge at the time. The melody is both uplifting and soothing, while Wonder’s powerful yet tender voice expresses vulnerability and strength in equal measure. The arrangement is sleek and polished, with a subtle groove that gradually builds to an emotionally intense climax, perfectly matching the song’s message of hope.
In terms of social and cultural impact, “Faith” was part of a broader movement in the late 1980s where artists were using their platform to address more introspective themes in their music. The song resonated deeply during a time when the world was grappling with issues such as economic instability, political tensions, and the AIDS crisis. Wonder’s uplifting message was a balm to a generation looking for emotional expression that spoke to both personal struggles and broader societal challenges. It also reflected Wonder’s ability to transcend genres and speak to the human condition, which is why his music has remained timeless and influential.
The track’s success on the charts was undeniable, further cementing Stevie Wonder’s legacy as one of the most influential artists in modern music. It helped to reinforce his reputation not only as a brilliant musician and songwriter but also as a cultural icon who could capture both the complexity of the human spirit and the pulse of the times. “Faith” was a radio staple and enjoyed significant airplay on both pop and R&B stations, making it accessible to a wide audience and ensuring its place in the soundtrack of the 1980s.
In addition to its commercial success, “Faith” had a lasting influence on the artists who came after Wonder. His ability to fuse pop sensibilities with soulful authenticity has inspired countless musicians across genres. The song also contributed to the growing popularity of synthesizers and electronic music in pop and R&B during the 1980s, influencing the sound of both the mainstream music industry and the broader cultural landscape.
In conclusion, “Faith” is a testament to Stevie Wonder’s ability to create music that is not only sonically innovative but emotionally resonant. The song’s themes of hope and perseverance, paired with Wonder’s masterful musicianship, make it a standout track in his vast catalog. Whether it’s the warmth of his voice, the depth of the lyrics, or the rich, layered instrumentation, “Faith” continues to stand as a reminder of the power of belief and resilience, making it a classic that resonates with listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Stevie Wonder]
See the girl with the diamonds in her shoes? (Yeah)
She walks around like she’s got nothin’ to lose
Yeah, she’s a go-getter, she’s everybody’s type
She’s a queen of the city but she don’t believe the hype
She’s got her own elevation, holy motivation
So I wrote some letters out in big bold type[Chorus: Stevie Wonder]
I got faith in you, baby
I got faith in you now
And you’ve been such a, such a good friend to me
Know that I love you somehow
I met you, hallelujah, I got faith (Ooh)[Verse 2: Ariana Grande]
See the boy with the Stevie Wonder swag?
Ain’t got a clue all the magic that he has (Uh-huh)
He’s a go-getter, he’s everybody’s type
I’ma make it my mission, make him feel alright
He’s a twelve on a ten point, rockin’ out to his joint
Just say the word ’cause I could sing all night[Chorus: Stevie Wonder & Ariana Grande, Stevie Wonder, Ariana Grande]
I got faith (Faith) in you, baby
I got faith (Oh) in you now
And you’ve been such a, such a good friend to me (Me)
Know that I love you somehow (Love you somehow)
I met you, hallelujah, I got faith (Faith)[Bridge: Stevie Wonder, Stevie Wonder & Ariana Grande, Ariana Grande]
Yes I do, mm (Yeah)
I get around ya and my mind goes crazy
I think about you mornin’, noon, night and day
I get around ya and my mind goes crazy
I think about you mornin’, noon, night and day
I got faith in you, honey (I get around you and my mind goes crazy)
I got faith in you, girl (I think about you mornin’, noon, night and day)
I got faith in you, honey (Baby)
I got faith in you, girl
I met you, hallelujah[Chorus: Stevie Wonder & Ariana Grande, Stevie Wonder, Ariana Grande]
I got faith (Faith) in you, baby (Baby)
I got faith (Faith; Oh) in you now
And you’ve been such a, such a good friend to me (Woo)
Know that I love you somehow (Love you somehow)
I met you, hallelujah, I got faith (Faith, faith, baby)
I got faith (Faith) in you, baby (Baby)
I got faith (Faith) in you now (Oh)
And you’ve been such a, such a good friend to me
Know that I love you somehow (Yes, I do)
I met you, hallelujah
I met you, hallelujah
I met you, hallelujah, I got faith