In the iconic song "Higher Ground" by Stevie Wonder, the instruments used include the Clavichord, drums, percussion, Moog Bass, tambourine, and claps. Remarkably, Stevie Wonder performed and supplied all of these instruments himself.
The Instrumental Composition of "Higher Ground"
Stevie Wonder's genius shines brightly in "Higher Ground," not only through his songwriting and vocals but also through his complete command over the instrumentation. During a prolific "three-hour burst of creativity," he single-handedly wrote, produced, performed, and arranged the entire track. This remarkable feat underscores his unique talent as a multi-instrumentalist.
Here is a breakdown of the specific instruments he utilized:
- Clavichord: This keyboard instrument provides the distinctive, driving melodic and harmonic foundation of the song, contributing to its signature sound.
- Drums: Wonder laid down all the drum tracks, providing the essential rhythmic backbone.
- Percussion: Beyond the main drum kit, various percussion elements were incorporated to add texture and complexity to the rhythm section.
- Moog Bass: The deep, resonant, and often funky bassline is famously played on a Moog synthesizer, a pioneering electronic instrument that gives the song its characteristic synth-bass groove.
- Tambourine: Adding brightness and a propulsive feel, the tambourine provides an additional layer of rhythmic sparkle.
- Claps: Even the hand claps, which contribute significantly to the song's infectious rhythm and energy, were performed by Stevie Wonder himself.
This all-encompassing performance showcases Wonder's unparalleled musicianship and his innovative approach to music production, making "Higher Ground" a testament to his comprehensive artistic vision.
