Question
CD and artwork by American singer, songwriter STEVIE WONDER

Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" was originally meant for which musician?

Last updated: October 27, 2025

Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" hit number one in 1973 with a clavinet riff that made every rock station suddenly take notice. The funky groove was Wonder's most upbeat yet and proved he could cross over into any genre he wanted, but the song was supposed to be someone else's big moment. Who did Stevie Wonder originally write "Superstition" for?

Correct Answer: Jeff Beck

(Source)

By 1972, Stevie Wonder was already handling almost every instrument for his albums. But when he needed a guitar or a bass, he found someone like Jeff Beck, formerly of The Yardbirds. Beck agreed to play on Wonder's "Talking Book" sessions, and Wonder would write a song for Beck's new group. During one of those sessions, Beck started fooling around with a drum pattern, Wonder added the clavinet riff, and "Superstition" was born. The plan was for Beck to release his version first, but the debut was delayed. Meanwhile, Motown's Berry Gordy told Wonder that "Superstition" was the guaranteed hit "Talking Book" needed. Wonder released his version in October 1972, and by the time Beck recorded his own take, Wonder was already dominating the charts. While there was some bitterness between the two, they eventually made up and even performed the song together at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's 25th anniversary show.

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